Chicago by water taxi: stops, sights, and ways to spend the day

Chicago is known for being one of America's most beautiful and architecturally rich cities. It's also a city with excellent public transportation options, and one of those options—the Chicago Water Taxi—offers a unique view of the city's stunning architecture. Let our real estate agents be your guides to exploring Chicago aboard the Chicago Water Taxi.

About the Chicago Water Taxi

Used by many Chicagoans to circumvent rush hour traffic, the Chicago Water Taxi is both a scenic route and a shortcut. It follows the Chicago River from the heart of the Downtown Loop to several of Chicagoland's unique neighborhoods, offering spectacular views and allowing commuters and recreational riders alike to skip the streets and ride the river, free from parking concerns or traffic. 

The Chicago Water Taxi costs $10 for a one-way ticket and $3 per ride with a 10-ride commuter pass. The complete route, including each stop, takes about 45 minutes. The comfortable passenger boats offer:

• Restrooms
• Refreshments
• Luggage storage
• Bike racks

Chicago Water Taxi stops

The Chicago Water Taxi schedule consists of four stops along two routes. The Main Branch Route, which serves The Loop and South Loop areas, makes stops at Michigan Avenue, Ogilvie / Union Dock, and Chinatown (see the current schedule here).

The more limited North Branch Route has a more restricted schedule. It runs periodically to the Chicago Avenue Dock, extending service to River North and the greater Near North Side.

Michigan Avenue Dock - Chicago, IL

Address: 400 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

The primary Downtown gateway to the Chicago Water Taxi, the Michigan Avenue Dock is located right in the heart of the city's business and retail core. The dock is situated at the north end of the historic DuSable Bridge along the Riverwalk, convenient to the CTA Red Line as well as destinations like the Magnificent Mile shopping corridor, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Ogilvie / Union Dock (West Loop) - Chicago, IL

Address: South Branch Chicago River, Chicago, IL 60606

The Ogilvie / Union Dock stop on the Water Taxi's Main Branch Route serves The Loop and West Loop areas. With a convenient location overlooking the South Branch of the Chicago River, the dock is directly under the Madison Street Bridge. It's within walking distance of major regional transit hubs, including the Ogilvie Transportation Center and Union Station. 

Chinatown Dock (Ping Tom Memorial Park) - Chicago, IL

Address: 1700 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

Continuing southward along the South Branch of the Chicago River, this culturally vibrant stop is uniquely scenic, offering a direct route to Chinatown, one of the city's most beloved neighborhoods. The Chinatown Dock is located near the iconic pagoda in Ping Tom Memorial Park and is convenient to the park's scenic river walks, the landmark Chinatown Gate, Chinatown Square's sprawling shopping and culinary marketplace, and the historic Nine Dragon Wall.

Chicago Avenue Dock - Chicago, IL

Address: 600 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60654

Operated separately from the Main Branch Route, the North Branch Route follows the North Branch of the Chicago River from Ogilvie / Union Dock toward the Chicago Avenue Dock. This is the northernmost stop made by the Chicago Water Taxi, located behind the historic Montgomery Ward Building complex. Always check the schedule before planning your trip, as service to this dock is limited and operates on a restricted schedule when available.

Chicago Water Taxi FAQs

How much does the Chicago Water Taxi cost?

A one-way Chicago Water Taxi ticket costs $10. Commuters can also purchase a 10-ride pass, which brings the cost to $3 per ride.

Where does the Chicago Water Taxi stop?

The Main Branch Route stops at Michigan Avenue, Ogilvie / Union, and Chinatown. Limited North Branch service also runs to the Chicago Avenue Dock.

How long does the Chicago Water Taxi route take?

A complete trip along the Main Branch Route takes about 45 minutes, making it an easy way to see the city from the Chicago River while traveling between several popular areas.

Discover your home in Chicagoland

Contact us today to learn more about exploring Chicagoland, and talk with our real estate agents about finding your dream home in any of Chicago's unique neighborhoods.