The most popular way to explore the Chicago River is on a climate-controlled cruise. Chicago architecture tours by boat are particularly popular if you want an overview of the city’s architectural standouts from an ideal vantage point. You can combine your cruise with a Chicago city tour, food tour, South Side tour, speedboat ride along Lake Michigan, or access to the Willis Tower. Kayak tours are also popular. Alternatively, take in views of the Chicago River with a stroll down the Chicago Riverwalk from Wolf Point, where the north and south branches converge.
River cruises fill up fast in summer, so buy tickets or book a tour well in advance.
Boat tours depart rain or shine. As weather can change quickly in Chicago, be prepared for rain or temperature fluctuations.
You don’t need any experience to kayak on the Chicago River; tour guides provide short lesson before each kayaking tour begins.
Running through the center of downtown Chicago and dividing the Loop from River North, the Chicago River is hard to miss. Most river cruises depart from below the DuSable Bridge at the corner of Wacker Drive and Michigan Avenue. If you’re using public transportation, take the El to State/Lake.
The best seasons to explore the Chicago River are late spring, summer, and early fall, as most river cruises don’t operate during winter. The city dyes the river bright green for St. Patrick’s Day, an event that traditionally takes place on the Saturday before March 17. If you're visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday during the summer, book a fireworks cruise to see fireworks over Navy Pier.
A boat ride on the Chicago River is largely about appreciating Chicago history and architecture. Look out for the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, the corncob towers of Marina City, and the Merchandise Mart, once the largest buildings in the world. The Willis Tower is a South Branch highlight and was the tallest building in the world when it was completed as the Sears Tower in 1973.
