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Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady Image 1
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Highlights

  • 90-minute guided architecture cruise on Chicago's rivers
  • Live narration by Chicago Architecture Center docents
  • Tour route covers all three river branches
  • Guaranteed open-air seating for every guest
  • Onboard restrooms accessible during cruise
  • Free storage available for strollers
  • Limited mobility services for accessibility needs

Your Experience

Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady Image 1
Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady Image 2
Official Chicago Architecture Cruise by First Lady Image 3

Welcome to a 90-minute guided architecture river cruise in Chicago. Knowledgeable docents provide live narration as you glide along the water.

Route and Sightseeing

The tour covers all three branches of the river. You will learn about the history and significance of each structure you see.

Onboard Amenities

Open-air seating is guaranteed for every guest, though seats are unassigned. Restrooms are accessible onboard for comfort during the journey.

Families can use free storage for strollers. Limited mobility services like early boarding are offered to assist guests with needs.

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • 90-minute guided architecture cruise on Chicago's rivers
  • Live narration provided by docents from the Chicago Architecture Center
  • Route covering all three branches of the river
  • Guaranteed open-air outdoor seating for guests
  • Restrooms accessible onboard during the cruise
  • Free storage facilities for strollers
  • Limited mobility services for guests
  • Food and drinks are available for purchase
  • Gratuities are not covered in the package price
  • Parking fees are an additional cost
  • Transportation to and from hotels is not included

This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.

Must Know

  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, or visor to protect yourself from the sun during your cruise
  • Have your booking confirmation handy on your phone or printed out for check-in
  • If asked by staff, have a government-issued photo ID ready to verify your reservation
  • Avoid bringing large suitcases or oversized bags; travel light is recommended
  • Fold and store strollers before boarding, carrying children aboard instead

Ticket Delivery

  • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

  • Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

  • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Boarding point

  • Board your cruise at First Lady.

  • Address: 112 E Wacker Dr, 60601 Cook County Chicago, US.

Get directions to the boarding point

Cancellation Policy

These tickets can't be rescheduled or cancelled.

Frequently asked questions

Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.

Booking FAQs

A hat, sunglasses, or visor to shield you from the sun as you cruise. Your booking confirmation, either on your phone or printed, for a smooth check-in. A government-issued photo ID if staff request to verify your reservation.

Large suitcases or oversized bags; you’ll need to travel light. Open strollers during boarding; please fold strollers and store them, and carry children aboard. Outside food or beverages. Snacks and drinks are available to purchase on board. Pets (service animals are welcome). Any form of smoking, including e-cigarettes.

The cruise offers limited mobility services, including early boarding and river-level drop-off for guests with accessibility needs. However, full wheelchair accessibility may not be available on all vessels. Please contact the staff in advance for assistance.

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure; general boarding starts 15 minutes prior. Cruises run rain or shine; tickets cannot be refunded for no-shows. Infants under three years old still require a paid ticket. Open-air seating is guaranteed but unassigned; seating is first-come, first-served. Enjoy discounted parking at 111 E. Wacker Drive; validation available at the ticket office (parking fees not included). River routes may vary due to weather or city events. A portion of every ticket sale supports the Chicago Architecture Center’s educational mission. During major events or street closures, please allow extra travel time to reach the departure point.

You should have your booking confirmation on your phone or printed out, along with a government-issued photo ID if requested during verification of your reservation.

No, you cannot skip mandatory security checks even though it's an open-air cruise experience.

Large suitcases and oversized bags are not allowed. Open strollers should be folded before boarding; they will be stored for you while onboard.

No, outside food or beverages are not allowed on board. However, snacks and drinks can be purchased at the bar/snack bar.

The package includes a guided river cruise covering all three branches of the river with guaranteed open-air outdoor seating, restrooms onboard, and free stroller storage.

Food and beverages are not included but available for purchase. Gratuities, parking (though discounted validation is offered), and transportation or hotel pickup services are also excluded from the package.

It's a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, or visor for sun protection during your time aboard.

There is no specific dress code mentioned; however, it’s advisable to wear comfortable attire suitable for an outdoor experience on a river cruise.

Strollers should be folded before boarding. The cruise offers free storage for your stroller while you enjoy the tour with your children onboard.

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