A fourth-generation family-owned and operated business, First Lady has been providing memorable cruises of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan for 90 years.
Explore Chicago’s iconic architecture aboard the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady, the only river tour partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center. Learn about Chicago’s various architectural styles and the people who built and designed our city. See why visitors and locals alike consistently name this architecture tour the best in Chicago.
Travelers’ Choice Award (Tripadvisor 2024)
#1 Boat Tour in North America (USA Today Readers’ Choice 2024)
Best Tour, Best Outdoor Attraction (Chicago Reader 2024)
First Lady also operates a full slate of unique, family-friendly sightseeing tours cruising Chicago’s River and Lakefront, including the Chicago By Night River & Lake Cruise, 3D Fireworks Cruise, Canine Cruise, and Creepy Cruise.
First Lady’s fleet of nine beautifully appointed vessels is available for private charters and special events, accommodating groups from two to 250 guests, with premium catering and beverage options.
With a commitment to sustainability, First Lady uses B20 Biodiesel fuel and is partnered with Sustainable Travel International to offset 100% of carbon emissions.
Wheelchair Accessible
Student Tours
Technical Tours
Step On Guides
Group Charter/Sightseeing
Complimentary PolicyPlease inquire
Motorcoach ParkingOn-site
Group Policy
Average Visit/Tour Lengthvaries
Group Capacity250
Minimum Group Number2
Maximum Group Number250
Group Discounts Available
Minimum Size for Group Admission Rate20
Miles from O'Hare Airport17.0
Miles from Midway Airport12.0
Miles from Navy Pier
Miles from McCormick Place2.0
Visa
MasterCard
American Express
Student Group Friendly
Special Interest Tours Offered
Reservations Accepted
Bar/Lounge
Concierge Service
ADA Compliant
Food On-siteOTHER
Airport(s) ServedORD & MDW
Open Seasonally
Family-friendly
Buy-out Max Capacity250
Preferred Catering Providers
Number of Meeting Rooms5
Largest Room, Theater Capacity250
Largest Room, Reception Capacity (Standing)250
Largest Room, Classroom Capacity250
Largest Room, Banquet Capacity (Seated)125
Largest Room, Max Capacity250
On-Site Catering
On-site Audio/Visual Equipment
In-house/Exclusive Caterer(s)
Complete Buy-out Available
Max Capacity, Theater Style250
Max Capacity, Reception Style (Standing)250
Max Capacity, Classroom Style125
Max Capacity, Banquet Style (Seated)125
Max Venue Capacity850
Private Meeting Space Available
Max Restaurant Capacity250
Private Dining Available
Group Menu
Group Breakfast Available
Entertainment
Trip Advisor Reviews
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