Chicago Architecture Foundation Cruise

Take a trip aboard the famous Chicago First Lady Cruise line and see what one of the top ten tours in the United States (voted by TripAdvisor) is all about! Chicago natives and tourists alike call this the ‘best way to see Chicago’, a unique and gorgeous way to learn all about the architecture and design of over 50 iconic buildings along the famous Lake Michigan shoreline. Trust CAF certified docents and guides as they lead you on a 90 minute adventure in this open-air and air conditioned water vessel that offers snacks and full-bar service.


On your tour your guide will reveal how the city grew from a mere small back-country outpost into one of the world’s most important crossroads in less than 100 years. You will hear the real story of Chicago architecture and it’s history, and not just the legends, fables, or tidbits of quick info you get on all the brochures and dedication plaques. Learn all you can, ask questions, take in the sites, and bring a camera to take photos along this amazing tour route, and remember when looking for this tour just find the blue awning in the southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, off of Wacker Drive.