Book Chicago First Lady Cruises

Things to know before booking your tickets

Want the full, docent-led deep dive into Chicago’s skyline? Book the 90-minute Chicago Architecture River Cruise.
If your goal is to learn the stories behind Chicago’s most important buildings, bridges and engineers, pick the 90-minute Chicago Architecture River Cruise aboard First Lady; it’s led by Chicago Architecture Center (CAC)-trained docents who deliver live, expert commentary throughout the trip.
All cruises board at the First Lady dock on the Chicago Riverwalk enter at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Upper Wacker Drive (112 E. Wacker / near 400 N Michigan Ave). Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before check-in and boarding.
Tickets are valid for a single, narrated, round-trip cruise only, no stops or reboarding.
All cruises include live, engaging narration by CAC docents; no apps or headphones required, just listen and enjoy.
Popular slots (especially weekend afternoons, summer departures) sell out fast, so booking early is recommended to secure the best times and seats.
First Lady provides assistance and some accessibility options, but motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated aboard the vessel.

First Lady cruise option explained

Cruise boat on Chicago River passing under Clark Street Bridge.

First Lady’s Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

Immersive, docent-led tours that take you through Chicago’s famous river canyons; ideal if your focus is the city’s architecture and stories behind the skyline.
All departures are led by Chicago Architecture Center (CAC)-trained docents and offer both indoor climate-controlled salons and open-air deck seating.

Average duration: 90 minutes

Recommended experience: 90-minute Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Know before you go

Chicago skyline with skyscrapers and river view, Illinois, USA.

First Lady’s Chicago Architecture Boat Tour runs frequently during the cruising season; season typically runs spring through late fall.
Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to departure. Ensure you arrive at least 30 minutes early to your scheduled departure time.

First Lady Dock (Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise):

All Chicago Architecture cruises depart and return from First Lady dock on the Chicago Riverwalk; 112 E. Wacker Drive (near the foot of Michigan Avenue / Upper Wacker) | Find on Maps
Located at river level in the heart of downtown (near the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower), the dock is walkable from many central transit stops.
Look for First Lady signage and the dock entrance.
Closest transit: Millennium Station and several ‘L’ stops (nearby stations include State/Lake and the Loop stations) are within a 10-20 minute walk, depending on your route.
Walking: The dock sits at the northeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Upper Wacker; follow riverwalk signs to the black awning/stair entrance.
Parking: Public garages are available nearby; reserve in advance during peak season to save time and money.

Chicago Riverwalk with skyscrapers and bridge in the background.

Chicago skyline aerial view with skyscrapers and Lake Michigan.

Time of Day

Morning cruises allow for a quieter, cooler, and easier to snagging a front-row deck spot, which is great for a relaxed, informative tour.
Afternoon cruises are best for clear, daylight views and photography.

Downtown Chicago skyline and Chicago River from Wolf Point in morning light, Illinois.

Time of year

Spring (Apr-Jun): Comfortable weather and lively riverwalk scenery.
Summer (Jul-Aug): Long days and the fullest schedule (busiest season).
Fall (Sep-Oct): Crisp air and great light for photography.
Winter (Nov-Mar): Limited seasonal sailings; boats have heated, climate-controlled salons for colder months; check the schedule.

Modern washroom facilities with sinks and mirrors in a tourist attraction.

Indoor, climate-controlled lower cabins and open-air upper decks for unobstructed views.
Full-service bar and light concessions on board (available for purchase).
Restrooms are available on board, including wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. Please note that all restrooms close 15 minutes prior to the end of the tour for safety reasons.
Live, docent-led narration provided by Chicago Architecture Center-trained guides.
Seating is first-come, first-served; arrive early to get the best deck or window spot.

Centennial Fountain spraying water over the Chicago River with city skyline.

Want the best photos? Aim for a sunset cruise for golden-hour lighting, or an early-morning departure for calmer water and fewer people.
Check your ticket for the exact dock and boarding time, as those are date and time-specific.
Bring a light jacket or layer even in summer; it can be breezy on the upper deck.
Wear flat, secure footwear for safe boarding and moving about the boat.
Binoculars or a zoom lens help capture architectural details high on the facades.
Be courteous at railings and photo spots; cruises can be crowded at popular viewpoints.
Cruises depart promptly; late arrivals may not be accommodated.
Most tours are round-trip and return to the same dock.
Manual wheelchairs can be accommodated, and the cruise can lend a manual wheelchair if requested; motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot board for safety reasons.

Frequently asked questions about the First Lady Cruise ticket

Can I bring food or drinks onboard?

Outside alcoholic drinks aren’t allowed, and bringing your own food isn’t recommended. The boat has a full bar and light snacks, so it’s easiest to grab something on board or eat beforehand.

Is narration available in other languages?

The tour is led live by Chicago Architecture Center docents in English. Non-English narration isn’t a standard option, but if you have a private group, you can ask the ticket office in advance to see what they can arrange.

What if it rains during the cruise?

The tour runs rain or shine and the boats have climate-controlled cabins, so you’ll stay comfortable in light weather. If conditions are unsafe, the captain may cancel.

Is Wi-Fi onboard the cruise?

There’s no standard public Wi-Fi listed for the First Lady river cruise.

Can I trade tickets?

Usually not. Your tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Does the boat go on the lake?

No, this tour operates exclusively on the Chicago River. For lake excursions, we recommend our Sightseeing Cruises.

Are service dogs or emotional support animals allowed onboard?

We welcome service dogs in compliance with ADA guidelines. They must remain harnessed, leashed, or tethered unless these interfere with their work or the handler’s disability prevents it. Emotional support animals, pets, and non-ADA animals are not allowed.

Can I bring a stroller?

Yes! Children must be taken out of strollers before boarding, and strollers will be folded and stored in the salon during the cruise.

Can I bring luggage?

No, luggage is not permitted onboard for security reasons, and we do not have dockside storage. We suggest asking your hotel to hold it for you.