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Chicago's First Lady

112 E. Wacker Dr · Chicago, IL

Why you should go…

Chicago's First Lady operates the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise, a 90 minute narrated tour of the Chicago River departing from the dock at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive. Docents trained by the Chicago Architecture Center describe the city's architectural styles and the people who designed its buildings, from the Willis Tower to the Marina City towers. The boats hold up to 250 passengers and include an open air upper deck, a full service bar, and a climate controlled lower cabin. Cruises run daily from March through November.

  • #boat tour
  • #architecture
  • #history
  • #sightseeing
  • #date night

Good to know

General tours guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Confirm the meeting point

    It is often a corner, a lobby, or a dock rather than the address you searched for. Check it the night before.

  • Small groups fill first

    In high season the intimate departures sell out well before the big-bus options do.

  • Ask how much is on foot

    Knowing how much of the route is walking, standing, or outdoors tells you what to wear and carry.

  • Read the weather policy

    Cancellation windows and rain rules vary by operator, and they are easier to find before you pay than after.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Chicago's First Lady, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise

    $50+

    Expert docents narrate the skyline's greatest hits on the beloved river cruise aboard First Lady.

    Right next doorMore like this

  • Tours
    Local Gem

    Wendella Sightseeing Boats

    $25–$50

    Family-run since 1935, classic river and lakefront cruises from the Michigan Avenue dock.

    Right next doorMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Chicago Riverwalk

    Free

    A 1.25-mile waterfront promenade of patios, wine bars, and skyline views along the Chicago River.

    Right next doorSwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Theatre & Events
    Iconic

    The Chicago Theatre

    $25–$50

    The marquee that means Chicago, catch a show or tour the gilded 1921 movie palace.

    0.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Theatre & Events

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Iconic

    Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean)

    Free

    Snap your reflection in The Bean, splash at Crown Fountain, and catch free concerts downtown.

    0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Tours
    Quirky Fun

    Chicago Crime Tours

    $25–$50

    Guided bus tours through Chicago's Prohibition-era mob history and notorious crime landmarks.

    0.6 mi awayMore like this