Chicago River
Tour boats running on Chicago River on a sunny day
Tour boats running on Chicago River on a sunny day

Chicago River Tours and Tickets

24,434 reviews

The Chicago River passes by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and architecture, including the Wrigley Building and Navy Pier. Get a fresh perspective of the Windy City during a cruise along the river to learn, or paddle in a kayak for a closer look at the skyline. Combine your cruise with a city tour or speedboat ride, or see the city of Chicago illuminated on a nighttime kayak tour.

  • The Loop, Chicago, Illinois

Tours and Tickets to Experience Chicago River

When are you traveling?
Chicago Categories
Time of Day
Duration
Price
$0
$500+
Rating
Specials

26 results

What are people saying about Chicago River

Ivan_S, Nov 2023
Great tour and educational
We really enjoyed this tour. The boat was clean and plenty of space. There was a bar on the lower level. Our guide was very informative of all the buildings and the history of Chicago. We had a really good time.
Corinne_C, Oct 2023
Easy way to really see around thecity!
First off, I had some problems with my ticket and the bus driver herself and another women were so kind and helpful, went out of their way to get me taken care of with smiles on their faces! Thank you! The trips themselves were such a wonderful way to see the city. The bus was very clean and not too crowded.
Doris_R, Oct 2023
Fun and professionally done. 🥰
It was a beautiful experience and our tour guide was great. The views were amazing and the water so clean. The only thing was that I did not get an exact address to the Michigan location, which had me miss my tour time. Customer service was great and moved my time to a better. Thanks!
Holly_B, Oct 2023
Amazing !!!
The staff was great and entertaining. We picked a perfect time to go. Drinks were perfect and very clean and tidy boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What are Chicago River hours of operation?
A:
Chicago River hours of operation: . Buy tickets in advance on Viator. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
People Also Ask
Q:What is unique about the Chicago River?
A:The most unusual characteristic about the Chicago River is that the river actually runs backwards from its original mouth in Lake Michigan. Engineers designed to river to run the opposite way of its natural flow. Also, the Chicago River runs right through Chicago, allowing people to get great views while wandering the city.
Q:Can you swim in the Chicago River?
A:No, swimming is prohibited iin the Chicago River. There are many reasons the water is unsafe to swim in, ranging from hazardous bacteria to boat traffic. Plus, even though the Chicago River is cleaner today than it used to be, you should still steer clear of swimming in the water.
Q:Why is Chicago River so blue?
A:While visiting the Windy City, you may notice that the Chicago River is especially blue. The river is blue because the river’s clay bottom, lake water, and algae all mix to present a bluish color. This is most evident on warmer days, especially in the summertime.
Q:Are there any fish in the Chicago River?
A:Yes, the Chicago River does indeed have fish that call it home, and you can go fishing in certain areas. The types of fish you’ll find include carp, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, catfish, and rock bass. You can also catch (and see) crayfish there, too.