- The 2026 season begins on 15 March for the CAC River Cruise aboard First Lady.
- The 90-minute tour covers all three branches of the Chicago River.
- Docents complete extensive training for unique narration.
- Tickets start at 49 euro with priority options at 62 euro.
- Proceeds fund CAC education programs and youth initiatives.
The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady starts its 2026 season on 15 March. The cruise lasts 90 minutes and covers all three branches of the Chicago River. Passengers view more than 50 iconic buildings and pass beneath 13 historic bascule bridges.
CAC-certified docents lead the tours after nearly 100 hours of training plus 12 weeks of study. Each docent provides a unique perspective so no two tours match exactly. The cruise earns recognition as the number one boat tour in the US in 2025 by USA Today 10 Best readers.
Tickets start at €49 and passengers purchase them online by phone or in person. Priority boarding tickets start at €62 and include early access plus admission to Chicago Architecture Center exhibits. A portion of proceeds supports CAC nonprofit mission and education programmes.
