Jim Bartholomew 2008 or Jim Javorcic 1999
River Cruise, September 2023
This was the most outstanding tour we have ever taken. Our guide Jim clearly was passionate about the city and its architecture. If you do one thing in Chicago, let it be this tour. Ann Z Carrboro, NC
John Blackburn 2017, John Hug 1999, John Ivory 2023, John Slivka 2023, or John Tielsch 2015
Historic Treasures, October 2023
The walk is not too hard and we got to go inside a couple of the buildings to look at the designs and cool off from the heat (29C). Make sure you have a water bottle! Our tour guide John was knowledgeable and friendly! He was kind to answer our questions and I had quite a number of them! I especially liked the stories about the architect and the people who owned the buildings. It was an enjoyable time of walking, looking at the architecture and learning. Thank you, John for an awesome job! Irene L
Mark Campbell 2023
River Cruise, September 2023
Mark L is AMAZING! An incredible, engaging tour guide and I learned so much. Would love to do it again and would recommend to anyone! Hannah Moore Zaragoza, Spain
Mark Campbell 2023, Mark Lenhart 2023, or Mark Purdome 2019
River Cruise, August 2023
This was my second time doing the tour and my second time with Mark as my guide (unintentionally). Could not recommend this tour enough as a way to enjoy an afternoon with a drink while learning about the city. 10/10 Cameron S
Mark Campbell 2023, Mark Lenhart 2023, or Mark Purdome 2019
River Cruise, August 2023
Mark was our guide and he was amazing! The tour was perfect. Not too long and not too short. The skyline at night was beautiful. Jason W
Tom Carmichael 2007, Tom Savick 2008, or Tom Stelmack 2017
River Cruise, October 2023
Only thing I can say you MUST do in Chicago. The docent, Tom, was spectacular and he imparted so much knowledge about the architecture. I am obsessed with the buildings now. I want to learn more and share what I learned with others. The weather was challenging with rain but it didn’t affect how much I loved this experience. He shared his information with ease and I was fascinated. Tom was terrific and I can’t say that enough. Please thank him and tell him he made our entire trip to Chicago! 10/10 stars. 11/10 stars. Shannon C
Tom Carmichael 2007, Tom Savick 2008, or Tom Stelmack 2017
River Cruise, October 2023
Tom did a wonderful job of giving us the history of the beginnings of Chicago and inside architectural knowledge of all those tall buildings, when built, the period by date and by style of the period such as art deco, modern, postmodern and more. He knew the names of and had spoken to many of the architects, for example the building known as echo deco, which term the architect said was disrespectful; art deco heritage should be used. Tom also continued as did we on the open deck during a cold rain for about 45 minutes of the cruise. Thanks so much Tom, we certainly learned a lot about Chicago and it as a pioneer of the skyscraper. We also learned about the First Nations who lived here and where Chicago received its name – place of wild garlic. Murray L
Steve Gersten 2003, Steve Haddad 2020, or Steve Redfield 2019
River Cruise, September 2023
Steve was incredible and I was immensely moved by the amazing architecture of Chicago. As an architecture student this has been moving and has only solidified my love of this art. Eddie Whittier, CA
Steve Gersten 2003, Steve Haddad 2020, or Steve Redfield 2019
River Cruise, September 2023
Steve was our tour guide and was extremely knowledgeable even when asked about things off script. All of the guides are volunteers so it makes it that much more wholesome. Andrew
Steve Gersten 2003, Steve Haddad 2020, or Steve Redfield 2019
River Cruise, September 2023
Highly recommend taking a tour with these guys. From an info perspective, Steve provided an amazing overview of the design, tech, culture and history of so many important buildings along the Chicago River. He’s a volunteer with the Chicago Architecture Center (non-profit) which means he’s not even getting paid or accepting tips, he’s doing it for the love of architecture. Great to see history being shared and kept alive! Arif V
Doug Harrison 2011 or Doug Hurdelbrink 2019
River Cruise, October 2023
Lovely and charming tour. Our docent Doug was so kind and knowledgeable. Couldn’t recommend this tour more highly. Arg Westborough, MA
Doug Harrison 2011 or Doug Hurdelbrink 2019
River Cruise, October 2023
We had a great time on our river cruise. Our docent, Doug, was very knowledgeable and made the experience a memorable one. He made time to walk around and introduce himself to us as people boarded the boat and was very personable. I would recommend this is anyone visiting Chicago. Sam R
Bill Hayden 2020, Bill Lee 2005, or Bill Lipsman 2009
River Cruise, October 2023
Our docent Bill was amazing with a fluid and seamless commentary on the architecture and history of many of the buildings and the city, in general. We generally don’t go on organized tours, but we read the reviews and were not disappointed – this was amazing, even if you’re not a full on architecture buff. The stories were super interesting and entertaining and seeing the impressive building from the water was a unique experience you just can’t get by walking alone. Take this tour. You will not be disappointed.
Bill Lee 2005, Bill Lipsman 2009, or Bill Page 2001
Historic Treasures, August 2023
Amazing. The facts are so interesting and pacing is great. Second tour with Bill and I’ll be going on more. Excited for the next one. Matt M
Paul Meyers 2009 or Paul Schoun 2023
Historic Treasures, October 2023
I loved this tour. Chicago is truly beautiful with a rich history behind its construction. Paul our Docent, was fantastic. Highly recommended. Wilshirk Auckland
Ingrid Nelson 2019 or Ingrid Zeller 2009
River Cruise, October 2023
We were a little nervous about whether this would be a good main event for our day. Once on board the boat, Captain Jorge and guide Ingrid were amazing!! Ingrid is an incredible storyteller and obviously loves her city, its history and the architecture with equal devotion. Her style was delightful on a slightly breezy afternoon cruise that never got boring or lagged a bit! Would we do it again – oh, yes! Kathi Maitland, FL
Lori Nelson 2020 or Lori Yelvington 2015
Must See Chicago, October 2023
Great tour, very interesting and informative, a perfect intro to Chicago. Lori our guide was awesome. Very knowledgeable and she managed an interesting walking tour in 98 degrees so well. We loved the history and stories that she shared.
Kathy Baker 2016
River Cruise, September 2023
This is simply one of the best tours we’ve been on and we do these types of tours all over the U.S. and Europe. Kathy was a fantastic tour guide and her knowledge was both deep and wide. She told us about all the iconic building as well as some lesser known ones and also told stories about the less savory side of Chicago’s history. Michelle V
Cynthia Bates 2016
River Cruise, September 2023
Cynthia (the tour guide) was amazing! From the start, the tour was very interesting as we went past many of my favorite buildings. Cynthia provided relevant and interesting information, much of which was new to me (and I have studied the architecture in Chicago quite a bit). As a teenager visiting Chicago, the tour was a wonderful blend of new experiences and interesting new information. I went with a family friend who agrees — the tour was fascinating for us both (adult and teen). Thank you, Cynthia! Westley M
Mary Jane Beechen 2016
A Walk Thru Time, September 2023
Our guide, Mary Jane, was incredibly informative and happy to answer all our questions. The pace was good, and the buildings seen and discussed were very varied. I am now seeing Chicago through new eyes! ClareBray High Wycombe, UK
Phil Bierman 2023
River Cruise, September 2023
The tour was phenomenal—informative, entertaining, and fascinating. The docent, Phil, was exceptionally knowledgeable with a wonderful sense of humor. Great time! Bonnie D Arlington Heights, IL
Emily Clott 2012
River Cruise, September, 2023
We loved this 90 minute architecture tour along the river. Emily, the docent from the Chicago Architecture Center, was extremely knowledgeable and provided interesting and entertaining narration. Sean C., Merida, Mexico
Alice Daniele 2019
River Cruise, September 2023
We had company from Florida and decided to share our event with them. They loved it as much as we did. We live in the Chicago area and have been many times. Alice did a great job explaining and identifying the architectural experience. Thank you and we’ll be back again!! Linda P
Anne Findley 2023
River Cruise, September 2023
Most excellent river boat cruise on the First Lady. The views were great, but the docent (Anne) was AMAZING! She brought the city and its architecture to life with great stories told in an easy to listen to way. Can’t wait to come back with more friends and family to share the wonderful cruise and Chicago’s story. Passenger13210319766
Kent Foutty 2009
River Cruise, September 2023
The architecture cruise was a highlight of our trip to Chicago. We expected to enjoy it, but we were pleasantly surprised by how much we absolutely loved it! Our tour guide, Kent, gave us an enthusiastic, detailed history and explanation of each of Chicago’s iconic buildings. The views were spectacular, so we took scores of photos. We highly recommend it! Vacationer815787
Sharad Garbharran 2023
River Cruise, September 2023
I took a Saturday afternoon tour and it was excellent! We had a wonderful docent Sharad. He was so knowledgeable and made the tour fun! He gave us so much information over the 90 minute tour and it was seamless and well timed. Sharad included not only facts about architecture, but about Chicago’s history. Sharad was also kind and willing to answer questions after the tour. I would definitely recommend this tour to visitors and even Chicago residents. It’s a perfect relaxing way to see the city and learn so much about its great architecture and interesting history. Martina G
Delta Greene 2008
Inland Steel Building, October 2023
This was a terrific 45 minute tour of a gorgeous, pivotal building in the evolution of Chicago. Our tour guide, Delta was outstanding. She highlighted this beautiful building with great perspectives on art and architecture. We even got to visit an Architecture firm and peruse models from buildings around the world! Mary W
Tim Harris 2019
River Cruise, October 2023
Could not have asked for a more enjoyable experience! Boat was comfortable, well piloted, etc…But the star of the show was our guide, Tim: articulate, engaging and comprehensive – and without even a hint of pretension…truly an impressive performance. Strongly recommend – can’t wait to return on our next visit! Connor C
Siobhan Hartsell 2015
River Cruise, September 2023
Took the tour with 6 friends from out of town, we had a great time! The person who is giving the tour on the boat MATTERS. This might be a little more expensive than other architectural tours, we took a cheaper one a few years ago, and this one was truly worth the difference and more. Volunteers give these tours and they are so passionate about architecture and Chicago and the history of the river. Siobhan was excellent – she barely stopped speaking to take a breath or drink her bottle of water. She was a wealth of knowledge. Thanks for a great tour! Bryon S
Joni Hirsch Blackman 2013
River Cruise, September 2023
This tour was amazing! The tour guide we had was Joanie who was not only super passionate about Chicago and its architecture, but impressively knowledgeable about the history behind it all. Joanie’s engaging stories left me wanting to hear more about Chicago. I absolutely would have never known about a lot of the facts, especially about the Martini building and the wind pass-through without this tour. This tour will not let you down! Paradise31797405503
Mary Jo Hoag 2007
River Cruise, August 2023
This was the BEST river cruise I have ever been on. Mary Jo did a fantastic job describing the history of Chicago with where we were at different points on the river, and she knew so much detailed information about the city. If you’re coming from Chicago from out of state, I would 100% recommend taking this tour. Monica H
John Ivory 2023
What’s New, October 2023
John I. Is an excellent docent. He was very knowledgeable about architecture and how the architecture played a very important part in Chicago’s history with the World’s Fair and retail in Chicago. Regina B
Betsy Jenkins 2016
A Walk Thru Time, September 2023
This walking tour was so interesting. Our guide, Betsy was knowledgeable, interesting, fun and a great guide. She obviously loves her job. We all had a great time and learned so much.
Kimberly Kanakes 2023
River Cruise, October 2023
An incredible way to see the city from a different angle on the river!!!! The architecture offers such a splendid showcase of craftsmanship. The volunteer docent we had, Kimberly was phenomenal – I have no clue how she holds all that information in her brain, but it was evident she loves sharing it !!!!!! Do not leave Chicago without taking a trek on this tour. TSTBlondie Williamsburg, VA
Judith Kaufman 2010
River Cruise, September 2023
Docent Judith made this tour come alive. I’ve always wanted to take an architecture cruise on the Chicago River. I knew the buildings would not disappoint. But how to guarantee a quality docent-led tour? Judith expertly connected the viewer to the art, design and innovation of the buildings. Great boat, great tour!
Amy Kunz 2020
Walk Thru Time, October 2023
We had a great time on this tour. It was a solid overview of Chicago’s architectural history, and I loved getting to see different eras of buildings. Our docent, Amy, was super knowledgeable and friendly, and she did a great job evoking the personalities and trends that resulted in the buildings we saw on the tour. The next time I’m in Chicago, I will definitely be taking more tours with the Chicago Architecture Center! Wendy
Amanda Lewis 2019
River Cruise, October 2023
Unique opportunity to cruise the Chicago River and study iconic skyscrapers representing architectural styles. Our volunteer guide, Amanda, seemed highly qualified to point out and describe a number of skyscrapers in terms of architectural styles, architects, design elements, etc. Fran W
Terry Light 2023
What’s New, October 2023
Amazing! Terry did a great job! Definitely recommend! We had a great time walking around and looking at all the buildings! Terrilyn W
Tony Lovos 2023
Magnificent Mile
Tony was our docent and he was excellent! We were enjoying a visit through the past for our mother when she turned 80, and the tour was new even to her. James B
Cyndi Martin 2016
River Cruise, September 2023
Loved this expert tour and learned so much about Chicago history, art and architecture. The highlight of my trip! With all the many available choices for Chicago River architecture tours, I’m so glad we chose this expert tour led by the Chicago Architecture Center. Cyndi was an outstanding guide and we learned so much about Chicago history, architecture, art and commerce on this gorgeous Labor Day holiday on the river. Definitely the highlight of my trip to Chicago. Big thanks to Cyndi and CAC! Paradise762688
Katie Martin 2023
Historic Treasures, September 2023
Would highly recommend this tour! Katie shared the rich history about the buildings in a relaxing/enjoyable pace. Especially enjoyed how things looked back in the day and going inside to view the beauty of these buildings. Thank you Katie for opening our eyes to Chicago architecture! Connie K
Alina McMahon 2012
River Cruise, October 2023
5 of us were at a convention in Chicago and wanted to a river boat tour. The rain was impacting our decision but then we found First Lady Cruises which provided wonderful indoor seating space. The rain did clear up on our tour and we were able to witness spectacular views of the city skyline. We also had the best narrator, Elina. I am not usually into the narration as I prefer to look visually and take it all in. But Elina’s voice was SO pleasant and informative. I could listen to a whole audiobook from her if she did one! Thank you!! Anndalos B
Burt Michaels 2019
Gold Coast, October 2023
Burt was a great walking tour guide! He was very knowledgeable and charismatic! Would definitely do another tour with him! Sarah W Brooklyn, NY
Patricia O’Connor 2020
River Cruise, September 2023
We had a wonderful tour guide, Patricia, who gave excellent presentations with great precision and even passion about what we were seeing. My friends had been on this tour before and said that Patricia’s tour guiding was really excellent and the best they had experienced on the Chicago Architecture Center tour. We would recommend the tour and Patricia as the highest rating! Thanks for a great trip. Warren B
Chris Pausch 2019
River Cruise, October 2023
Superb tour of the buildings that sit magnificently on the banks of the Chicago River which is made all the more captivating by the knowledge and delivery of your tour guide which for my trip was Chris. An insight not only into the architecture but the history behind the buildings and their transformation over the years. A must do if you are in Chicago. Ecka67 Durham, UK
Bob Pratt 2019
River Cruise, September 2023
What an amazing experience. This was a fantastic way to see Chicago’s built environment. Our docent, Bob P., was very pleasant and gave the perfect amount of detail—enough to engage someone with an architecture background without boring those without. A must-do! Wendy
Constance Rajala 2008
River Cruise, September 2023
Constance was the volunteer guide on the boat. She was full of great information that she told in a very interesting way. Chicago is so full of history, this boat trip is an excellent way to see the architecture of this fabulous city. kathleen z Seattle, WA
Ron Roman 2023
Historic Treasures, October 2023
I had a terrific tour with Ron Roman. He was patient, knowledgeable and a terrific guide. He taught me a tremendous amount about the architecture of Chicago and the history of the building and the persons involved. I highly recommend this tour and appreciate Ron. It is well worth your time and money! FarAway494318
Russ Seward 2005
River Cruise, September 2023
What an absolutely amazing tour. Our guide, Russ – this guy was amazing. You felt his love of the city come through as he described all the buildings and told their stories. The fact he did it all off the top of his head was amazing. I couldn’t give any higher marks for this tour. Thank you – I absolutely loved it. The only thing now is that we have to do it again – but this time at night. Eric M
Peter Shearn 2023
River Cruise, October 2023
Amazing way to see the city and learn a bit of its history. Detail oriented and very engaging for both architects and non-architects. We got Peter as tour guide and he was great. Vítor Sousa Porto, Portugal
Ronnie Jo Sokol 2006
River Cruise, August 2023
This is a delightful and detailed tour of Chicago buildings as seen from a boat. The docent, Ronnie Jo, and Cpt Jorge were great. Bobby B, Kansas City, MO
Lydia Spettel 2023
River Cruise, September 2023
Worth it! This was an amazing experience to see the beautiful architecture that graces Chicago! Lydia was so full of information and made the trip so special. karenosh San Jose del Cabo, Mexico
Lisa Tallman 2015
River Cruise, October 2023
One of the highlights of my trip! Our tour guide, Lisa T, was amazing! She kept us entertained and informed for 90 minutes during our sunset tour. Nicola_Six Toronto, Canada
Maureen Waller 2023
Historic Treasures, October 2023
Really informative tour. Learned a lot about the architectural history of Chicago and some of the beautiful interiors. Maureen was a wonderful guide. Kristen K Toowoomba, Australia
Mike Weiland 1984
River Cruise, October 2023
A terrific summary of Chicago architecture on a crisp fall afternoon; it’s not just the Sears — sorry, Willis — Tower. Shout out to our docent Mike the mapmaker delivering 90 straight minutes of interesting facts and history. Jack L Troy, NY
Elizabeth Wells 2013
River Cruise, October 2023
Very interesting tour. Our docent, Liz was exceptional. Very knowledgeable. First Lady of Chicago is the way to go. Saw many other architectural cruises on the river, but truly they seemed like people barges compared to our beautiful ship. WAC
Jessica Williams 2017
River Cruise, August 2023
What a wonderful experience. I’m an art historian, and our guide Jessica was a terrific docent, extremely knowledgeable and captivating. I highly recommend the tour. Randy Taylor C
Claudia Winkler 2007
River Cruise, September 2023
Don’t take any other river tour in Chicago. This is the one. Our tour guide Claudia was absolutely FABULOUS. She had so much insight and fun stories to share, and her passion for architecture and the city made the tour so special. So glad we did this at the beginning of our Chicago trip. Geoff
_________________________________________________________________________
CLICK HERE for more stories on The Bridge.