River Cruises

Cruise the Chicago River — architecture, history, and hidden gems.

Duration

1.5–2.5 hours

Party size

2–6 guests

Price range

$250–$600

Overview

Explore the Chicago River on a private captained cruise. Glide past iconic architecture, through the locks, and into neighborhoods most tourists never see.

What's included

  • Navigate the Main Branch, North Branch, and South Branch
  • Pass under 30+ movable bridges — more than any city in the world
  • See Marina City, the Merchandise Mart, Tribune Tower, and more
  • Lock-through to the lake available on select trips
  • BYOB-friendly on most boats

Details

The Chicago River is where the city began, and a private river cruise is the best way to experience it. Your captain will navigate the narrow channels, explain the architecture and history along the way, and take you past landmarks that even lifelong Chicagoans miss from the street. Popular routes include the Main Branch architectural corridor, the North Branch up to Goose Island, and lock-throughs connecting to Lake Michigan. River cruises run April through November, with fall foliage trips being a local favorite.

Other charter services

Scenic Cruises

$200–$600

Dive Charters

$400–$800

Corporate Events

$800–$3,000

Fishing Charters

$400–$1,000

Sailing Instruction

$200–$500

Fireworks Cruises

$300–$700

Playpen Cruises

$300–$800