If you're looking for the best architecture tour in Chicago, the First Lady Chicago boat tour is an absolute must! The city is breathtaking from the river, and the tour was packed with fascinating history and fun facts about Chicago's incredible skyline. Doug was an outstanding guide--knowledgeable, engaging, and the perfect mix of informative and entertaining. You could tell he genuinely loves Chicago and made the entire experience unforgettable. Jorge did a fantastic job navigating the boat smoothly while making everyone feel welcome and comfortable throughout the cruise. The views were spectacular, the boat was clean and comfortable, and the entire experience was organized from start to finish. Whether you're visiting Chicago for the first time or have lived here for years, this tour gives you a whole new appreciation for the city's amazing architecture. Five stars all the way! Huge thanks to Doug and Jorge for making this one of the highlights of our trip. We would absolutely do it again! read more

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Amazing views. Excellent speaker who knew all her histories on each and every building. She was amazing with her knowledge and facts on building. Service was great but it was cold. Overall wonderful time and amazing view. Highly recommend for the views and for relaxation with the family. read more

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Phenomenal architecture tours! We had Brad who is an architect who shared so much knowledge about the river high rises! The way he differentiated the architectural periods since the Chicago Fire taught us so much! If you have a choice of docents, try to get Brad! read more

You can't come to Chicago and not have a river boat experience and First Lady didn't disappoint. Prices are fair. We did the cheaper river sightseeing tour and got to go into the lake too. Well worth the time and money! Priority line was worth getting the seat I wanted. read more

First Lady - View from the boat tour - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Our guide, Amy, was superb. Very knowledgeable and made the tour very interesting. I was engaged the entire ninety minute ride listening to her explain the history behind the architecture along the river in Chicago. Highly recommend for a good experience and new respect for the buildings of the city. read more

First Lady - View from First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

'We checked the radar'. That was the only update. The Navy Pier wheel was struck by lightning. But we trudged on into the Lake. Into the storm. Only update was ponchos FOR SALE. Boat did not even match the pictures in the website. Not only was this not worth the money. It was NOT SAFE. Avoid this company like the plague! read more

Wonderful tour with a knowledgeable tour guide full of fascinating Chicago trivia to go along with the history of beautiful buildings along the riverfront. Thank, Dave! read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Booked this tour off the recommendation of our son who took it in the past. Kathleen and Capt John did a wonderful job taking us on journey of Chicago architecture and history. Our 90 minute tour was relaxing, interesting and informative. Overall, we had an excellent experience. read more

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Mark L gave a fun and informative tour of the architecture of Chicago. Highly recommend!

So far, First Lady is my go to architectural tour. What really makes the experience unique is the your tour guide/docent. The deep insight of history, perhaps some trivia and humor. I've been on about 4 tours with First Lady and have I've enjoyed all of them. However, there was one that stood out the most. The docent was a retired ad man from Leo Burnett. He was knowledgeable, funny, talked about the Cubs, a good talker. read more

If you're going to do an architectural boat tour, this is the outfit to book. We chose a 7pm time to make the most of daylight, sunset and nighttime. Our docent was brilliant and had wonderful anecdotes to share. The sites are amazing! Also, this shouldn't be a one time thing, I plan to go every time I'm in Chicago ~ simply a must do! Be sure to bundle up if you're doing an evening tour, it's chilly to say the least. read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Passing through Magnificent Mile in Downtown Chicago we were looking for a fun activity to pass some time and thank God we found the First Lady. The tour is ideally located right on the riverwalk (parking beware) and the buying process and wait were all incredibly smooth and easy. The price is well worth it and the staff is exceptional. The boat is clean and has a bar on it and both an outdoor roof seating area and indoor area if you like some coverage. The tour itself takes you down the branches of the Chicago river allowing you to see many neighborhoods and different perspectives of the city. Our docent, Mary Jo, did a phenomenal job of explaining the city's history and architecture, giving us a look into Chicago that we didn't even know was there. The entire cruise went very smoothly and the weather was fantastic, although they had mentioned that some days it does get to be very chilly. However, we think the views and commentary would still make it even. As you weave in and out of buildings, under bridges, and past other boats, you really start to understand what Chicago is all about; not only currently, but historically as well. There is a great amount of work put into this tour and you can see it. By the end of the tour we were incredibly happy we decided to go on it and by the end of our trip it was almost unanimously the highlight of it. Disembarking was quick and efficient as well. They even left us with a parting gift where if you bring your ticket into the Chicago Architecture Center you receive $5 admission in return! Just a great activity and great operator all around. read more

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Fantastic time on our Architecture tour. We booked (discount site) last minute because my friend wasn't sure if her motion sickness could handle it. Ultimately, it was a good time and the boat was a rocking but she didn't get sick. This is my 4th architectural boat tour. I like to vary the business so that I don't hear the same things and jokes. Our tour guide was good on this occasion, not too corny. Enjoyed the route that we took. Thanks Doug!!!! Usually, I do the evening tours but it was nice to do one during the day so that I could see the river/lake water levy system at work. Tons of good views, clean bathrooms. Free cold water and nice parlor bar for snacks if you are hungry. I would book this tour again if hosting visitors. read more

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Been to Chicago before--but never seen it like this! We were in town for a board meeting and took the First Lady Architectural Boat Tour as part of our group's planned activities. I've visited Chicago before, but this was my first time doing this tour. So glad we took advantage of this fun opportunity. Our guide (a docent from the Chicago Architecture Center) was sharp, funny, and knew their stuff. The focus was more on architectural styles and design trends than deep-dive history, which kept things moving and super engaging, even for someone who can't tell Art Deco from Brutalism without help. It was hot, but if you want to see the buildings properly, you need to be up top in full sun. Bring a hat, sunscreen, or a small umbrella unless you're aiming for a souvenir sunburn. Even as a repeat visitor, I learned new things and left with a deeper appreciation for the city's skyline. Highly recommend; especially with a breeze and good group energy! read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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We had a pleasant walk to the river and bought tix in person. Got to sit on the top level with great views of the grand buildings of downtown and other neighborhoods. We learned a lot about the history and architecture of these iconic buildings. The speakers are trained volunteers who have passions to share their knowledge with us. I recommend this as a must-do activity for Chicago. read more

Great way to tour the city, hear the history, learn about the building. Very happy we did the tour while visiting Chicago for the first time. read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

As part of a work event, we did a Chicago River cruise on the First Lady and guided by a docent from The Chicago Architecture Center. The boat was great with indoor seating and multiple levels of outside deck to sit or roam. Inside there was a small gift area and full bar. Bathrooms were cleaned and staff focused on great service. The guide was excellent (Bob?) and gave us a comprehensive history of the city and the architecture that makes up the cool Chicago skyline. While there was a light rain during our cruise, it didn't dampen our enthusiasm or enjoyment. I highly recommend you give this tour a try. read more

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We went on the architectural boat tour from the Wacker Dr / Michigan Ave location. Overall the boat was clean and well maintained. We were able to buy tickets online or via their ticket location, with standard or priority boarding. General seating only (no reserved seats, assigned seats). Our tour guide was Mark L from the Chicago Architecture Center and he was phenomenal. He was so knowledgeable and great presenter. We were able to ask questions about locations / buildings that were not on tour and he was able to provide knowledge on those as well. The tour was 90 minutes and there are bathrooms and a full bar on the lower level. If you sit on the top level, it's good to bring a hat and sunglasses. The lower level is enclosed if you need to be out of the sun and you are still able to hear the discussion. Overall, these tours are really well done. They are one of the more higher priced tours, but totally worth it. read more

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I got to experience lady on a sold out Lake House Effect EDM DJ show to hang out with my friend celebrating his birthday. What a great way to celebrate, great night skyline of Chicago, thrilling bridge crossings, and good vibes with great people enjoying the music! If you're looking for an easy convenient way to get out of city and see a different view of the cityscape, this event and the boat is a must! read more

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Best architecture tour I've ever taken. Cynthia narrated practically non-stop, always perfectly in time with the widely varying buildings we were passing. I was especially impressed that her cadre of tour guides doesn't accept tips; they do it for the best of reasons. And I must say, I came away liking Chicago a lot more. The only thing that detracted was a jerk behind us that felt the need to boo a certain tower and make periodic political comments. I mean, c'mon man - he's not here. Chill. read more

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Really enjoyed the nice tour. Was about 90 minutes and the tour guides are volunteers. Some of the ticket costs go to support the Chicago Institute of Architecture. Lots of interesting fun facts, even if you aren't an architectural buff. Definitely deepens your appreciation for the city. read more

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What a fun way to see the Chicago River get dyed green for St. Paddy's Day! The package was a little pricey, so it was nice that we got a corned beef sandwich, chips, and two drink tickets/person. Loved starting the trip off w bagpipes, glad when they changed to more fun, danceable music! Would definitely do again. read more

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Great boat trip with an excellent guide. Very well worth the price! Very interesting information about this wonderful city, river, and all of the amazing buildings. Don't miss the opportunity to take this trip. I would recommend this tour/boat company and this was my third time over a period of about six or seven years to take this cruise which never disappoints! read more

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This is one of the finest of these tours that I've ever been on. Thorough. Very complete and comprehensive. Well well well executed. Docent delivered the details of the buildings and the history and a cogent, thorough and impassioned way! You could hear her passion and love for the city in every aspect of her five star presentation! read more

Fabulous boat tour on the river all about Chicago architecture! The ride was smooth and the tour guide was informative, well- and clear-spoken, and a little funny. I learned quite a bit about Chicago history and architecture. Highly recommend! read more

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Lydia was a great tour guide! This was such a good use of an hour and a half, taking a trip up and down the Chicago river and learning about Chicago architecture along the way. Don't forget about the seating in the front, I was basically alone for half the ride because people didn't know there was space there. They have late tours so great for an after work activity when many other museums close. read more

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Great tour 4 stars instead of 5 because it was pricey No kids discount Nothing included but a pamphlet & a guest architecture docent... very knowledgable btw Would recommend it but be ready to pay 90min tour Love the skyline from the water Makes chicago even more special read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Lovely day for a boat cruise. Great docent giving information on the history of the buildings and the city. read more

First Lady - Raised bridge - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Awesome!!! Big shout out to Russell for guiding us through the the "canyon of skyscrapers". This tour met every expectation and more. I wish I had done this tour the last year when I first came. Russell was very informative and enthusiastic regarding the massive buildings that our "rowdy" group were attentive and quiet. Thank you again First Lady and Russell for great experience. read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Highly recommend the First Lady for an architectural tour while in Chicago. The meet up point is conveniently location if you're staying on E. Wacker and tickets were easy to get and use. There is a bar on the boat and the tour guide is so knowledgeable on the buildings you're learning about. The tour is 90 minutes but doesn't feel too short or too long. Perfect little activity between coffee and shopping and drinks and dinner! read more

First Lady - Chicago Skyline - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

For my first real visit to Chicago, my friends booked a couple tours, one of them being the city and architecture tour on the First Lady. Signing up for the tour was pretty easy online and we opted for priority seating, which meant we were some of the first people to board the ship. We were on the smallest of the ships in their fleet, but there weren't a lot of people compared with the other vessels, so that worked out. We were able to board and get seats in the bow of the boat, and then went to have some drinks while listening to the tour guide, Olivia, on the upper deck. We could hear Olivia's informative and humor laced stories from the lower deck and were able to get amazing photos and videos of the city from a pretty unique angle. From it's swashbuckling origins to the curated and cultured skyscrapers, Olivia made the journey very memorable. The boatswain and the bartender were also full of humor and made for a fun and exciting journey. This tour, unlike some of the others, heads out into lake Michigan, allowing you to learn more of the history and various areas of interest from the open water. There is a bit of a splash zone, depending on the weather, which may be more than welcome on those warner days. I highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in architecture, history, or just having a fun time in a boat. The staff, information, and views are incredible read more

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Finding the tour location was easy. We pre booked online. We were disappointed how many people were on our boat. Seemed like 200 people on the top deck crammed in there. Our tour guide was very informative, but not too engaging and seemed to talk too much without adding in appropriate pauses or more in jokes/facts. It was like you the company could have just played an audio guide as it didn't pause or take appropriate stops. It was a lot of history, almost information overload in the 90 min time. I am glad we did this tour however I wouldn't recommend it to others for the fact that it was very crowded and not too engaging in delivery for the price. Skip this and do the fun yacht tour instead to see the same sights without the crowd. read more

The perfect thing to do on a beautiful, sunny Chicago day. We knew we wanted to do a boat tour and this one was recommended to us by some friends who lived here. It was great all the way around. Our tour guide Bill was so knowledgeable and interesting and we learned so much. The boat was very comfortable and loved having a bar and bathrooms downstairs. Enjoying a spritz while learning about Chicago's history, just lovely. Would absolutely recommend, and might have to try one if they're walking tours! read more

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Great tour. Docent Kathy was so interesting and easy to listen to. The Chicago history and architecture info was really great to hear. Highly recommend this tour and speaker. read more

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Tour was ok, not as insightful or as inspiring as others have stated. We enjoyed the time on the water and enjoyed the docent's passion. Not sure what would have made it better, but it definitely lacked something. read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Everyone I know who loves Chicago told me that this Architecture tour was a MUST and they were correct. Lindy, a docent from The Chicago Architecture Center, was my guide and she did a great job of bouncing between her talking points and quirky tangents. The tour took almost exactly 90 minutes and I was in awe of Chicago the whole time. If you're ever in Chicago, I highly recommend getting tickets for this tour. read more

The cruise was super informative and a terrific way to learn about the rich history along the Chicago river. The docent (Amy) was full of interesting information/facts. There is a full bar with cocktails/beer/wine, and they also sell chips and ponchos (in case of inclement weather), and there is a nice, clean restroom. This is a wonderful 90 minute activity, and I highly recommend them!! read more

Shoutout fellow DePaul alum, Jacob, for being a wonderful tour guide! Jacob was very welcoming to everyone on board, greeting everyone as we boarded. He was obviously very passionate and knowledgeable, with great commentary on the history of Chicago and its unique architecture. Seeing the skyline from Lake Michigan and being guided through the past and present of the city was wonderful. We had the opportunity for a great photo-op with the skyline, despite the rain and clouds. I learned a lot about Chicago and was able to appreciate the rich history, with awesome views from the lake and river. This tour is definitely worth its price! read more

First Lady - Boating Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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So cool! We took the sunset cruise and learned a ton about the city. Great bartender and stunning views! A must do!

This is a great way to tour the Chicago River. This 90 minute tour shows the highlights of Chicago architecture. The docent was very nice and knowledgeable. A not to be missed activity. read more