Barbara Breakstone, 2012
A Walk Through Time was a great way to learn about Chicago from the experts: I just returned from this amazing tour with Barbara. She was so knowledgeable and friendly. Her passion for Chicago and its history was evident and I would highly recommend this tour! – Kerry O., Shrub Oak, New York
Thomas Burt, 2004; Mitch Cobey, 2008; Donna Gabanski, 1994; Gayle McKeen, 2013; Heather McWilliams, 2000; Bob Michaelson, 2011; Robin Simon, 1997; Peter Weil, 2015
Thank you for all of your help every year with these programs for the University of Chicago Campus Architecture tour! We heard lovely feedback about how some of the facts the students picked up about famous alums and structures increased their excitement to attend. We look forward to working with you all again in the future!
Jane Cahill, 2005
I had the great pleasure of taking the Chicago Architectural River Cruise offered by the Chicago Architecture Center. I had the great fortune of having Jane Cahill who delivered an outstanding narration of the tour, providing factual information in a very dynamic and interesting manner. Thanks to the CAC and to Ms. Cahill for a wonderful Chicago experience! – Vince, Ashland, Kentucky
Dick Clark. 2008
Our River Cruise guide, Dick, was great. Whether he was pointing out the details that were unique to different architectural styles or putting them into a context of the times and telling stories about the growth and management of the city and its public places like the new river walk, we were totally absorbed. Even though it was full, his asking us to introduce ourselves to our neighbor was a nice touch. – Delilah, Arenal Volcano National Park, Costa Rica
Janet Elson, 2008
We did the Walk Through Time with a tour guide, Jan, who was very knowledgeable about Chicago architecture and history. – Kathleen B.
Harry Hirsch, 1998
If you only do one thing… the River Cruise should be it. It covers the city from the perspective of the river. Harry our guide was WONDERFUL. So much interesting information. From the original skyscrapers to the new ones, Harry explained in detail the story behind each structure. The great fire, the reversal of the river flow… it is all explained. An amazing boat tour. – Pat, Wilmington, DE
Mary Jo Hoag, 2007
Perfect. What a wonderful experience. Learned so much about the history of Chicago and the architectural influences found here. Our docent, Mary Jo was simply the BEST. Extremely knowledgeable. I cannot recommend this River Cruise tour enough. I know next time I go to Chicago, I will take the tour again….it is that good! – S.R, Cedarville, Michigan
Jim Javorcic, 1999
The River Cruise – what a lovely way to see the magnificent architectural achievements of the city of Chicago. We had Jimmy as our volunteer guide and he was so welcoming and knowledgeable. He didn’t stop giving us information for the whole trip and it was amazing and so interesting. Lovely afternoon that we’d thoroughly recommend! – Kessels
Wayne Johnson, 2016
Wayne, our River Cruise guide, was really nice and had so much tips to share. He explained us the different areas and things to do while people were boarding. I was scared at first to take a tour, thinking that it would be too touristic and not focus on the main aspect of the city but finally I didn’t regret!! It’s a really complete tour with a lot of things to look and discover. – Claire, Toronto Canada
Judith Kaufman, 2010
We Made A Great Choice!! What a great way to spend 90 minutes!! We had a wonderful time with Judith (River Cruise guide). She is very knowledgeable & spirited. I never knew Chicago had so much beautiful architecture. A definite must do!! – Mimi, Jacksonville FL
Peg Leonard, 2005
My wife and I took the Center’s River Cruise on May 25 (we were in town for an anniversary weekend getaway) and just wanted to express our appreciation for Peg Leonard’s excellent narration. She is clearly very knowledgeable and managed to give us a lot of great information in a clear and enjoyable way. We had a great ride and the 90 minutes flew by pretty quickly. Thank you! – Jason
Adrienne Lieberman, 2010
Adrienne was a brilliant docent! This River Cruise is a must-see attraction. Our docent, Adrienne, was so knowledgeable with a spunky personality to boot. (Can’t believe she’s a volunteer!) I learned so much and left with a vastly greater appreciation of Chicago’s stunning Skyline. Jack, Chicago IL
Marcia Matavulj, 2008
We had a FAB Inland Steel tour with Marcia Matavulj — she was so knowledgeable, interesting, spoke clearly and definitively, gave us a wealth of information on the history, exterior, interior and purpose of the building. Please pass along our appreciation to her for one of the best tours we’ve taken. Many thanks – Elva and Paul Hohe
Priscilla Mims, 2000
If you love Art Deco, Art Deco Skyscrapers is is a great tour!! We have been on several of the architecture tours but this was one of the best. We love Art Deco and our tour guide, Priscilla, led us through a great tour of magnificent buildings showing us the common themes and details that make Art Deco so wonderful and unique. Highly recommended! – Amy A Armonk, New York, United States
Susan Pappas, 2005
Chicago Architecture Center’s First Lady Cruises – best guided tour ever! Our trip today on the CAC tours was the perfect introduction to this magnificent city. Susan, the CAC’s volunteer guide, provided excellent information about the history of Chicago and its architecture. The commentary was intelligent, informed and brilliantly presented. We loved it!!
Chuck Pierret, Education Guide
“Chuck was an excellent education guide for Chicago: City of Architecture. He did well with the kids, shared good information but kept them engaged. The structure was good too as the stops were just long enough for students to get antsy and then he got us moving again.” – From a teacher survey following the tour
Ronnie Jo Sokol, 2006
You do not need to be an expert in architecture to enjoy the River Cruise. Our cruise guide was Ronnie Jo who was first-rate with facts, history and technical information, but also anecdotal and very professional in her presentation. She had our full attention for all 90 minutes of the cruise. I would highly recommend the CAC and River Cruise for anyone with limited time to get an overview and understanding of why Chicago was and continues to be the cradle of architectural innovation. – Belinda F Managua, Nicaragua
Jeff Zurlinden 2015, Education Guide
Today was my first Chicago: City of Architecture tour! I came and Jeff Z. immediately helped me out. Jeff was amazing today. Our tour group canceled, but he offered to stay and practice with me anyway. It was SO helpful. –Lindsay Mueller, Education Guide