Tour operator
Wendella Boats
Wendella Boats is a family-owned Chicago boat company founded in 1935, running river architecture tours, lake and river cruises and sunset trips all year.
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise
The Chicago Architecture Center's river cruise aboard First Lady boats introduces the city's buildings from the water, with commentary from the Center's docents.
At a glance
- Type
- Architecture river cruise
- Area
- The Loop, Chicago, United States
- Official site
- architecture.org
Good to know
- Docent-led commentary
- Runs March to November
- Priority and general boarding
- Center exhibitions next door
Why we recommend it
The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise is an architecture tour run by the Chicago Architecture Center with First Lady boats. The Center, which is devoted to the city's buildings and design, is based at 111 East Wacker Drive, and the cruise boards at the First Lady dock at 112 East Wacker Drive, across the street. The tour has been nominated as best boat tour in a USA Today readers' poll.
Chicago's architecture is best understood from the river, which runs between many of the city's landmark towers. The cruise follows the river through downtown while a guide explains the buildings on both banks, how the city developed and the stories behind the designs. The guides are the Center's docents, and the Center describes them as passionate and informative; their commentary is what sets this cruise apart from general sightseeing boats.
The cruising season for 2026 runs from 15 March to 22 November, so plan accordingly if you are visiting in winter. Tickets are sold through Ticketmaster via the First Lady and Center websites, with priority and general boarding options. Book in advance for summer weekends, which are the busiest time. Discount parking is available at 111 East Wacker Drive.
The cruise suits first-time visitors, architecture lovers, families with older children and anyone who wants an overview of the city in a short time. It is one of the best ways to start a trip, as it helps make sense of what you see later on foot. Bring a layer even in summer, as it can be breezy on the open deck, and sunglasses on sunny days.
Before or after the cruise, visit the Chicago Architecture Center itself, which is open from 10am to 5pm Sunday to Thursday and 10am to 7pm on Friday and Saturday. Its exhibitions explore the city's buildings and design, and there is a design store. The Center also runs walking tours, including routes in Humboldt Park, Pilsen, the South Loop and the Fulton-Randolph Market, along with bus tours and private group tours.
The dock is on East Wacker Drive in the Loop, so it combines easily with a walk on the Chicago Riverwalk or a visit to Millennium Park. For general enquiries, call the Center on +1 312-922-3432.
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise FAQs
Who runs the cruise?
The Chicago Architecture Center, with First Lady boats.
Where does it board?
At the First Lady dock, 112 East Wacker Drive.
When does it run?
The 2026 cruising season runs from 15 March to 22 November.
Who gives the commentary?
Docents from the Chicago Architecture Center.
How do you buy tickets?
Through Ticketmaster via the First Lady or Center websites, with priority or general boarding.
Is there parking?
Discount parking is available at 111 East Wacker Drive.
What are the Center's hours?
Sunday to Thursday 10am to 5pm and Friday and Saturday 10am to 7pm.
Are there walking tours too?
Yes. The Center runs walking tours in areas such as Pilsen, Humboldt Park and the South Loop.