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All 607 Chicago Attractions »

Chicago's First Lady Architectural Tours

111 E. Wacker Dr., then SE corner of Michigan Ave. Bridge, Chicago, IL
847-358-1330
Ranked #23 of 76 tours in Chicago
4.5 of 5 stars 52 Reviews
Type: Tours
Traveler Description: The official Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise aboard Chicacgo's First Lady. The CAF-certified Volunteer Docents are trained and certified... more »
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52 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    37
    11
    3
    1
    0
Date Rating
NewPlaceFan
Kenosha, Wisconsin
Senior Contributor
47 reviews
90 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed January 12, 2012

If you are an architecture or history buff, this is a great tour. If you are not, it's still entertaining and interesting. On an August afternoon, I wished I had had a hat to shade my eyes. I'm glad I did this once. We were glad to have found this just as they were selling the last few tickets before... More

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vladb
Watertown, Massachusetts
Senior Contributor
21 reviews
29 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 28, 2011

We found the tour to be an excellent value, delivered by an articulate and knowledgeable docent. It was a great experience even though the weather only partially cooperated that day, and some of the buildings were hidden in the clouds during parts of the cruise. I can understand why some visitors may find the delivery "too much information", but anyone... More

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CharlieBarbK9
Vienna, Virginia
Contributor
17 reviews
5 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed December 12, 2011
1
person found this review helpful

Highly recommend taking a trip down the Chicago River on the First Lady. You will disembark with an entirely new perspective and appreciation for all those sky scrapers. The guides are extremely knowledgeable about the history of the city, architectural history and of how architecture shaped the evolution of Chicago's amazing skyline. If you do only one cultural thing in... More

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Monty2212
Dublin, Ireland
Senior Contributor
40 reviews
19 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 13, 2011
1
person found this review helpful

I would absolutely recommend this boat tour. A great way to see the whole city in 2 hours and so much information to soak in. probably better for adults rather than kids More

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BarbaraLeary
Folsom, CA
Senior Contributor
25 reviews
10 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 13, 2011
1
person found this review helpful

We thoroughly enjoyed this tour of the amazing architecture that Chicago has to offer. The tour guide was exceptionally knowledgeable about each building, the style, architect, history of the city were all relayed in a professional and interesting manor. I would take this tour again! More

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PhillDanze
Sydney
Senior Contributor
30 reviews
24 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed November 4, 2011
1
person found this review helpful

Chicago is known for its architecture and this tour is a great introduction. The boat is moderately comfortable and you get a great view from the outdoor roof deck, all seats get the same great view. The toilets were modern and clean and the interior saloon area is airconditioned and offers alcoholic drinks and other refreshments. The tour guide we... More

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MES49
Chicago, Illinois
Senior Reviewer
8 reviews
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 3, 2011

Rather than listening to the canned, touristy, yuk, yuk from competitors, relax and enjoy a truly inspiring cruise through the river ways of Chicago. Listen to knowledgeable, educated, intellectual dozens with a true background and knowledge of our local scene give an in-depth perspective of the birth, growth, and re-development of our mighty river. You will never tire of viewing... More

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Kelly G
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Senior Contributor
41 reviews
6 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed November 3, 2011

I loved this tour for the actual information. The tour guide left a lot to be desired. Very monotone and no jokes, etc. My favorite tour guides are those that interact and engage the audience, which this one did not. Bundle up extra if you go when it is at all chilly - it is COLD on that water!! More

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AJay55
Charlotte
Reviewer
3 reviews
5 of 5 stars Reviewed October 31, 2011

Chicago's First Lady Architectural Tour is a great time. We made our reservations when we got to Chicago for a mid-morning cruise. Our guide was well-versed in the architecture of the city and made the tour enjoyable for everyone, regardless of the depth of your interest in architecture. The river tour is a great way to see parts of Chicago... More

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Lynne Sierra
Massachusetts
Senior Contributor
26 reviews
30 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed October 20, 2011

Nice boat ride on the river and fascinating if you have a real interest in architecture. The volunteer guide was great, really knew his stuff and made it entertaining. Tip- There are at least two companies with boat tours and it's a long hike if you buy online tickets and show up at the wrong launch site. This one, run... More

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