First Lady

Boat tour agency · Loop

First Lady

Boat tour agency · Loop

4

112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

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Highlights

Expert-guided 90-min architectural river tours with skyline views  

Featured in The Infatuation
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112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 Get directions

firstlady.com
@cflcruises

$$

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112 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601 Get directions

+1 847 358 1330
firstlady.com
@cflcruises

$$

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Aug 28, 2025

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@infatuation

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise - Review - Chicago - The Infatuation

"Even if you’re not necessarily into nerding out about flying buttresses and the beaux-arts style, The Architectural Boat Tour is still one of the most unique ways to see the city. For an hour and half, you’ll learn some history, see some great views of the buildings and the changing colors of the leaves, plus every boat has a bar if you’re in the mood for a drink. Tickets and departure times can be found here. We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Team Infatuation

https://www.theinfatuation.com/chicago/reviews/chicago-architecture-center-river-cruise
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@travelleisure

40 Best Things to Do in Chicago

"Offers a 90-minute architecture cruise guided by experts from the Chicago Architecture Center, showcasing the city's skyline and famous buildings." - Meena Thiruvengadam Meena Thiruvengadam Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Stree

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/city-vacations/best-things-to-do-in-chicago
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@infatuation

17 Things To Do For Halloween In Chicago If You Haven’t Made Plans Because Life Is Scary Enough

"Even if you’re not necessarily into nerding out about flying buttresses and the beaux-arts style, The Architectural Boat Tour is still one of the most unique ways to see the city. For an hour and half, you’ll learn some history, see some great views of the buildings and the changing colors of the leaves, plus every boat has a bar if you’re in the mood for a drink. Tickets and departure times can be found here." - john ringor

https://www.theinfatuation.com/chicago/guides/fall-activities-fun-things-to-do-and-eat-chicago-2022
View Postcard for Chicago's First Lady
@postcardnews

The city’s definitive 90‑minute story, told by Chicago Architecture Center docents on First Lady boats. Regularly praised by national travel editors and named a top U.S. experience by readers’ polls, it runs March–November with day and evening departures.

https://www.architecture.org/tours/detail/chicago-architecture-foundation-center-river-cruise-aboard-chicagos-first-lady/
Best Things to See in Chicago (2025)
View Postcard for First Lady

Anna

Google
I accidentally booked the sightseeing cruise instead of the architecture cruise, but was not disappointed! Nick was an excellent guide, and he dealt with a technical issue with great spirit. Even though we got a later start, we still got our full 90 minutes. Rick at the bar went above and beyond and kudos to the Engineer, Luis, who got us on track! 100 percent would recommend.

Ivonne Vogel

Google
We were in Chicago for the Nascar race and were recommended the boat trip across the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. We booked a trip at 6pm. As there was a traffic jam in the lock, our boat was delayed. But it was still an experience. We had seats at the front of the ship and therefore had a perfect view of all the great buildings. Our guide was great and you could see her love for the city in all her stories. There is so much traffic on the river that we were amazed that everything went so smoothly. Then comes the lock ride to Lake Michigan. We got a bit wet due to the waves and the faster speed, but it was pleasant at 30 degrees and the children on board had a great time. If you're in Chicago, you have to take this boat trip. It's informative, action-packed and impressive.

Melanie Smith

Google
I had a wonderful experience on the Chicago Architecture Tour aboard the First Lady. The tour guide, Larry, was engaging and informative, making the trip truly memorable. Despite the rain forcing us indoors, the quality of the tour shone through, and I would absolutely do it again. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Chicago!

AJ Nesby (okazay)

Google
The tour was a lot of fun and very insightful into the history of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. It was worth the money as the trip was about 90 minutes. I recommend going in the evening because seeing the city and river at night with the lights was beautiful. The information given by the tour guide at times was a bit dry cut and needed a few fact checks. Also, at times I was getting a little overstimulated from all the talking that was playing out over the speakers, but that didn’t take away from the experience overall (just don’t sit tight at the back if you think the speakers might bother you). Other tip: if you sit in the seats on the bow of the boat, while going over the lake you might get splashed! Some people in our tour came upstairs 🤣. Also there is a bathroom and beverages/snacks on the boat as well.

Sushmita Kadam

Google
The First Lady Architecture Boat Tour at sunset is a must-do in Chicago. As the sun dips behind the skyline, the city transforms into a glittering masterpiece. The 90-minute cruise offers unobstructed 360° views of over iconic buildings and historic bridges along the Chicago River. Expert docents from the Chicago Architecture Center share captivating stories behind architectural marvels like the Tribune Tower and Wrigley Building. The boat is smooth and comfortable, with a full-service bar and open-air seating. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a unique city

Nikki Dass

Google
Tour was great but be warned of the locking time going into the lake and coming back in. It was an additional 30 minutes so if you have something lined up after the tour best to plan ahead. It is not that wheelchair friendly since the ramp was very far from the ports and there were three flights of stairs that my elderly parents had to descend. No elevators either.

Sudip Patel

Google
My wife and I had the pleasure of taking the First Lady Architectural Cruise in Chicago, and it was nothing short of outstanding. From the moment we boarded, everything was handled with professionalism and charm. Captain Alejandro navigated the boat with ease and confidence, making the ride smooth and enjoyable even through the busier parts of the river. It truly felt like we were in expert hands. At the bar, Rick was incredibly friendly and helpful—quick with a recommendation and always making sure guests were taken care of. His great service added to the relaxing atmosphere on board. But the highlight had to be our tour guide, Doug. His knowledge of Chicago’s architecture, history, and urban development was astonishing. He brought the city’s skyline to life with stories and insights that were both informative and engaging. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this cruise is a must-do. It’s the perfect way to see the city from a new perspective, and the crew makes it an experience to remember. Highly recommended!

jerry Z

Google
If you ever wanted to do an architectural tour, definitely do it with this company. Yes, it’s a little more expensive but you get a much higher quality experience. 90 minute tour going north Northwest and then headed back going south then head back to the marina. Such an educational experience about how and why and when these buildings were built. Or recommend sitting on the top deck towards the back. You could also sit on the nose of the boat both will get you a great experience. Get ready for a good education in history of all these amazing buildings.
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Padma A.

Yelp
excellent time at a friends party on a really nice chicago evening. The staff were polite, the views to die for and the open bar was flowing. Will certainly host or attend another event with them!
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Susan S.

Yelp
This was a good tour and we really enjoyed it. Our volunteer guide gave us lots of interesting information. The next day we went to the Architectural Center, because our tickets on Chicago's First Lady allowed us to go to the Architectural Center for only $5.00. At the Architectural Center, we learned that some of the info on Chicago's First Lady was incorrect, particularly some "myths" about the great Chicago fire. Perhaps the guides should visit the center too.
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Chloe F.

Yelp
I've been to Chicago at least half a dozen times, and the architectural tour is always a favorite. Most recently, I went on Chicago's First Lady, as it was the closest ticket booth and it didn't disappoint. The guides are volunteers, but seem very passionate and knowledgeable. Worth the time and money every time!
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Travis H.

Yelp
Recently booked a private event on the Chicago's First Lady. The group sales person, Mary, could not be more accommodating. She worked with us to meet our budget. Friendly staff, beautiful Chicago River views and all had a great evening. Highly recommend. Only reason 4 vs. 5 stars is it's expensive, but it's online with the Chicago expenses.
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Grace F.

Yelp
I haven't been on the architecture tour for about 5 years, but I always enjoy it. It was a beautiful Wednesday sunny (but not overly hot) day. The tour guide was succinct in her description of the various buildings.
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Natalka K.

Yelp
Came to celebrate our boss's birthday on Wednesday and we had a good time. We could t have asked for a more glorious day to do so. With 13 of us there, we all sat together on the top floor of the boat and cruised down the Chicago river. Tom out docent was great! Very knowledgeable on all Chicago buildings and skyscrapers. And how photogenic is our city!! It didn't disappoint either the sun hitting all the right marks.
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Jessica R.

Yelp
Barbara, our dossiers, was excellent and informative. A family friendly, smooth ride listening to the architectural growth of the great City of Chicago.

Claudine S.

Yelp
My team outing on this boat was amazing. Mary's knowledge and explanations about the architecture were so meaty. She provided historical context with a touch of wit. We were laughing and the 90 minutes flew by. I highly recommend this tour and especially the great Mary as the tour guide. Best
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Alexis J.

Yelp
I loved this tour! Our guide was a fascinating and informative volunteer from the Chicago Architecture Museum, and you could tell she loved her work. The time flew by, and the architecture along the river is truly stunning. Highly recommend.
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Greg P.

Yelp
Amazing architectural river tour! John our guide was just incredible.... Fantastic. Tried to give him tip but he refused. One of the highlights of our weekend in Chicago and I would highly recommend it.
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Jung Soo L.

Yelp
First time visiting Chicago and found this little gem of a boat tour. The whole ride and the guided tour was fantastic. Jacob in particular was spectacular in narrating the history of Chicago and the architecture. Overall 10/10 recommend if you want a comprehensive and interesting lesson on Chicago, and photo sessions.
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Brian F.

Yelp
If you're visiting Chicago for the first time a boat tour is a must-do. And if you're going to choose one of the many, why not pick the highly rated boat tour and the official cruise line for the Chicago Architecture Center? To reserve your spots, make a reservation online. They have tour times all day starting from 9am to evening ones like at 7:30pm if you want a night tour. No matter which one you decide on it will be a great and informative time. It's a 90 minute tour led by a volunteer docent who are all very knowledgeable and passionate about Chicago building architecture. The boat will occasionally make some pit stops so you can take pictures which are very convenient. The boat has everything you need from restrooms to even a well-stocked bar. The nice thing is that if you book a tour you can get tickets to the Chicago Architecture Center for only $5 more instead of the typical $14. This is a great way to see Chicago from a different perspective!
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L V.

Yelp
We chose the 7:30 PM Architecture River Cruise with priority boarding. It was AMAZING! This was one of our most favorite things we did while in Chicago. We chose the last row of seats on the upper deck so no one was behind us, and we had the best wide opened views. It was truly spectacular. We learned so much about the history and architecture of Chicago. Our tour guide was Lydia, and she was exceptional. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND this tour!
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CarolAnn G.

Yelp
We took the architecture boat tour today. Ellen was our guide. She was amazing!!! (So knowledgeable!!) We went through the entire Chicago river and saw everything. She new the history of the city, each of the buildings, and what was planned for the future. It was 90 min start to finish. Highly recommend!!!
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Tim O.

Yelp
Wonderful tour of some of Chicago's amazing buildings along the river. Kasey was spectacular; informative and passionate. Highly recommend.
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JR M.

Yelp
What a great experience! A river cruise is a must when in Chicago and this was our first time. Chicago's First Lady did not disappoint. We sailed with Charles and he was so knowledgeable about everything. Who knew there was so much to know about a building?! It was a beautiful day, not cold and smooth cruise all the way down. I cannot vouch for drinks but I know they sell them. A fantastic experience overall and would absolutely do again if I'm ever visiting Chicago again.

Rob S.

Yelp
Greatly enjoyed our nighttime cruise on the Chicago River and lakefront. Our commentator Jacob was very informative and entertaining. Would do trip again. Had great time despite the cool November air.
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Jacques I.

Yelp
There is a lot to see and do in Chicago, but an architecture tour by boat is an absolute must. When deciding which architecture tour would be best, I saw that Chicago's First Lady boat tour is the official tour of the Chicago Architecture Center, which sold me. You can get tickets ahead of time, which I recommend doing if you're going with a group and want a specific time. However, for the four of us, we were able to get tickets half an hour before the 6pm tour, which is the last for the day. The ticket window is near the dock/entrance of where the boat takes off from. Tickets were about $50 per person. Line up early for the best seats since tickets do not assign seating. The architecture tour was about 90 minutes and is narrated by a volunteer who tells you about Chicago's history and the background of the many buildings that you'll see along the cruise. It really is the best way to learn about the historical buildings and skyscrapers, and Chicago's past. I recommend anyone visiting Chicago to partake in an architecture tour by boat, especially through Chicago's First Lady.

Friendly G.

Yelp
Absolutely lovely tour. The docent was incredibly knowledgeable, and I've learned something new every time I've done this tour. I think this is the best architectural boat tour in Chicago!
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Rachel G.

Yelp
Amazing tour full of fascinating information...highly recommend! The volunteer guide was super knowledgeable and very informative!

Courtney A.

Yelp
we loved this tour! we went as a group for a school event and this tour was definitely the highlight of our trip. we were with Ronnie Jo and Captain Diamond (i believe that was their names?) and they did absolutely wonderful. the volunteer was very obviously passionate about what she was talking about and made the experience so much more enjoyable. the bar was reasonably priced for an attraction and the lakeview lemonade was really good. i would definitely come back for this tour again.
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Jake P.

Yelp
This was our favorite tourist activity in Chicago! Mark, our guide, was funny, witty, and full of interesting Chicago history and info. The views were incredible. We stayed at the front of the boat and avoided a lot of the sun and crowd. There's a full bar on board!
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Jim S.

Yelp
My husband and I were lucky enough to attend the CAC First Lady boat tour on Saturday 8/19/23 at 11:00am. We had the pleasure of having Patricia as our docent. We were so impressed with Pat's knowledge of the buildings, history, and architecture. She has so much passion. It was if she was telling the history of the buildings to guests for the very 1st time even though she has been doing this for 17 years! She also added a great sense of humor. The Air and Water show was also taking place and the Blue Angels added an entertainment bonus. Again Pat-thank you for making our day! Jim and Tamora
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Anthony A.

Yelp
I researched the architectural tours prior to going with the First Lady. The First Lady is associated to the Architect.org which you can tour also at 111 Wacker Drive. This tour is awesome, being raised in Chicago I learned more about the buildings built on the river than I learned while studying in the city. The little tidbits of information on how decisions were made really made this an interesting tour! The ship/boat that takes you out is classy, the wood on the lower level is rich and gives you that feel of old time sailing. I would take this cruise again and again !
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Ashley P.

Yelp
Really enjoyed this tour of Chicago from the river. Learned a lot and appreciated all of the guide's expertise and narration. Definitely check it out if you're spending a weekend in Chicago or want to know some cool tidbits about the city and it's architecture!
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Paulo I.

Yelp
This was by far my favorite tourist attraction in Chicago. We basically covered a large portion of downtown Chicago in only 90 min. My girlfriend and I took some great selfies and the views alone are worth it. They also have a bar in the first floor just in case you want to enjoy a refreshment while on the tour. Our tour guide was a volunteer who truly loves her city and was very knowledgeable on the subject. It didn't feel like a boring lecture in school, it was actually entertaining and I'm happy to say I left the tour knowing more about Chicago than I did entering. Definitely recommend if it's your first time in Chicago and you're trying to cover as much as possible in a short time.
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Sammy W.

Yelp
We had the best time with Chicago's First Lady on the architecture boat tour! It was fun learning about the history of Chicago as it pertains to its architecture and its waterways! I'm usually not much of a history person, but I found the information that our tour guide Susan provided to be very intriguing. We went under 24 bridges and saw countless beautiful buildings and structures. We learned about the river itself and the Chicago fires and how it all has impacted and currently impacts the city. The tour was about an hour and a half and the weather was honestly perfect. It was supposed to rain but it ended up being partly cloudy with the sun poking out every once in a while so we were perfectly comfortable sitting on the top deck. There's also bathrooms and a bar on the lower deck of the boat; it seemed to be a full bar. I would highly recommend Chicago's First Lady for their architecture boat tour! We had a great time!!
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Michelle H.

Yelp
After some research, I decided to purchase tickets for the architecture tour, and I am so glad I did!! What a wonderful way to see the city. It is 90 minutes long, but it goes by so quickly. It was also nice to sit down for some time since there is so much walking in Chicago lol. Our guide was a volunteer and was funny and very knowledgeable. The tour was informative about not only the architecture of the major buildings but also about the history and other fun facts about Chicago in general. Definitely recommend doing this tour if you're looking to do "touristy" things in Chicago. You also get a discount to the architecture center if you buy this tour!
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Alyshia A.

Yelp
We did a 7:30pm cruise and it was perfect! We had amazing weather! Georgia was our tour guide and she was great!! Can't say enough good things!! She was so knowledgeable, genuinely excited to tell you about every building and so easy to listen to! Would definitely recommend this to anyone visiting!!
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DeEtte W.

Yelp
This was such a fun way to see the city! Our Docent was Gary and our Captain was Lee. Gary was so fun and knowledgable. I highly recommend if you are looking to go on a river architecture cruise!
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Azure G.

Yelp
What a lovely experience!! Didn't do any research but the timing was right given our location and no regrets about this spur of the moment decision. We did the architecture "three C's" tour; the tour guide was fantastic, cocktails tasty and reasonably priced, and just an overall wonderful time. Would highly recommend. Can't beat those views!!
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Justen G.

Yelp
What a fabulous tour that the Chicago Architecture Center provides! We had Steve as our guide on the most recent trip, and the energy he brought to the tour was incredible. Such an amazing experience to get to see so many iconic buildings from a whole new angle. If you have friends in town that have never seen Chicago, take them on the CAC's Architecture Tour. It can't be beat! Thank you CAC, Steve, and all of the volunteers and workers who make these tours so amazing!
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Krishna Bhavithavya K.

Yelp
We did the architecture cruise on a sat evening. It was a beautiful evening to enjoy the city's architecture. The volunteer who narrated was very good. The boat crew were very friendly and check process was smooth. Overall an amazing way to Njoy the city, would highly recommend it.
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Jennifer A.

Yelp
Highly recommend this cruise - our tour guide person Joni was born and raised in Chicago, very informative and fun! Enjoyable cruise offering adult beverages and snacks :)

Pookie R.

Yelp
michael was such a sigma it was so skibidi and he said it was skibidi!! we loved it so much yayy
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Lynne F.

Yelp
On tour on Chicago river now. WORST NARRATOR EVER! Most boring tour I've ever been on. Did this tour years ago and it was fantastic. It makes all the difference in the world to have a good speaker and she is terrible. Boring,, phrasing is all wrong,just drones on and on, no sense if humor.BORING!!!Would not recommend this tour to anyone if this volunteer is the speaker. Perhaps company needs to pay people instead of using volunteers!
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David E.

Yelp
Unfortunately, it began raining while we waited in line to board but the STAFF were great and had us board early. Regrettably this impacted my ability to obtain quality images for my food and travel blog post. Such is life. At least I took many architectural shots from land in the days prior. The docent was very good and very knowledgeable giving us the details on the Chicago Tribune, various architectural styles (Art Deco, Mission Craftsman, modern etc.). It was not always the easiest to hear because we were located inside. The boat is a standard older style 2-hour boat cruise style. We have done boat tours in Tahoe and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. They have nice restrooms, a bar and indoor and outdoor space with seating. I was able to get some shots from underneath the overhang outside when the rain lightened up.
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Suhi H.

Yelp
We really enjoyed the tour. I'm not obsessed with architecture or anything but it was very interesting.
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Aaron B.

Yelp
Phenomenal tour! Captain Jorge gave a funny and informative speech about our tour, the boat and what to expect. Then the mike was hand to our docent. She clearly knew a lot about the buildings/architecture and general history. The ride was smooth and comfortable (minus the wind). The sun came out a few times and warmed us up.

Ronda L.

Yelp
Laura was our docent, and she did a great job! She really knew her concrete. I live in a fairly landlocked area, so I really enjoyed the relaxing ride.
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Jason T.

Yelp
Super in depth and interesting river tour of Chicago. It really shows you another side of Chicago that you can't learn by yourself. Learned a ton about the different buildings and the architects and their influences on the Chicago skyline. The tour guide was super nice as well and very knowledgeable. Well worth it as a way to discover Chicago!
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Krista K.

Yelp
Number one certified group architectural tour! The 1st Lady offers large group tours. Line up accordingly b/c how you place in line determines who you sit by on deck. (Best stand near those you wish to sit by.) Drinks are available on tour! Canned beer, tea, etc.. Extremely knowledgeable on interiors and exteriors of buildings along the shoreline. I learned so much about Chicago taking this tour. Ticket costs: We payed $50 per person for our tours.

Katey K.

Yelp
Knowledgeable architectural guide, Kathy, gave us a great tour of Chicago's river front and surrounding buildings. History, fun facts, and architectural details were plentiful on this informative trip. Highly recommend it, and Cathy!

Ernest D.

Yelp
Patricia did a wonderful job educating us on the historical importance and significance of the buildings along the river tour.
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Winnie L.

Yelp
Although we have been to Chicago many times, this was the first time that we went on the architectural river boat cruise. We went on a Sunday morning at the 10 am slot and it was great because it was not full and while it was nice and sunny, the sun was not as strong yet. The tour guide was a volunteer from the Chicago Architecture Centre. Our tour guide, Lindy, was really great and very knowledgeable and provided lots of great facts not only about the bulldogs and architecture but also about the city of Chicago. As she was a volunteer, she is not allowed to accept tips. The 90 minute tour went by so quickly. Highly recommend this boat tour.
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Michael J.

Yelp
Great river tour. Learned a lot about the history of Chicago, buildings, architects, and structures. Got some beautiful photos. This was a 5:30pm tour.
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Robyn P.

Yelp
Took a boat tour with this company on the 4th of July weekend, during Covid. We were visiting Chicago from Los Angeles, and we were happy to find something to do, because many attractions not open due to Covid. The tour lasts 90 minutes, and there is both outside and indoor seating. We sat outside, and the weather was very nice. Narrative was provided by a volunteer ( forgot his name, but he was awesome). My husband arranged for the tour, so I wasn't aware that the tour is focused on the architecture of Chicago Buildings along the trip. If you are looking for a detailed boat tour designed to learn more about architecture of Chicago buildings, this is the perfect tour for you. Personally, I would have enjoyed a more general tour focusing on a broader spectrum of information.
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Emily F.

Yelp
Such a wonderful tour! We went at 4 during the weekday and there were enough seats to sit on top. They serve drinks that weren't very expensive and also had some snacks. They sell hats, sunglasses and sunscreen in case you forget your own. Having a hat definitely helped. Our guide was Judith and she was incredibly smart and also very funny.

Frank R.

Yelp
Last chance for romance. Rain or shine, we are having fun. Nice tour guide, no tip accepted.