Michigan Avenue

Michigan Avenue Water Taxi Schedule

Water taxis operate weather and customer traffic permitting. Our schedule is updated daily. Please call us at 312-222-9328 ext. 1 with questions.

Frequency Every 20 – 30 minutes
Departure location Today's schedule

Book Water Taxi

Day passes valid for 24 hours.

$36 Adults · $18 Children.

Michigan Avenue Water Taxi Information

River Route

Dock Address: 401 N. Michigan Ave

One-way: Michigan Avenue → Navy Pier

Adult: $10, Child: $5

One-way: Michigan Avenue → Willis Tower

Adult: $15, Child: $8

Ticket details

Single route tickets are only available for purchase at the water taxi docks. Ticket prices vary by route. Please visit our ticket booth for details. Purchases are credit or debit only.

Day passes available for purchase online

You’ll get access to all of our Lake Michigan and Chicago River docks, taking you throughout Chicago by water taxi. Day passes are valid for 24 hours and are $36 for Adults, $18 for Children. Not currently in season.

Michigan Avenue water taxi route map

Why Take a Michigan Avenue Water Taxi in Chicago?

Our Michigan Avenue water taxi is one of the most convenient ways to travel through downtown Chicago. Instead of navigating traffic or crowded streets, you can move along the Chicago River with direct access to major destinations like Navy Pier, Willis Tower, and the Riverwalk.

What makes the Chicago water taxi a good option?

It offers a fast, reliable, and scenic alternative to traditional transportation, with frequent departures and easy access to some of the city’s most visited areas.

  • Avoid street traffic and congestion in downtown Chicago
  • Travel between major destinations along the river
  • Enjoy skyline and river views along the way

For visitors and locals alike, it is one of the best ways to avoid Chicago traffic while still experiencing the city.

Fun Things to Do in Chicago Using the Water Taxi

The water taxi is not just a way to get around. It is also an easy way to build your day around the Chicago River and nearby attractions.

What can you do using a Chicago water taxi?

You can visit Navy Pier, explore the Riverwalk, access downtown attractions, and move between neighborhoods without needing a car.

  • Ride from Michigan Avenue to Navy Pier for lakefront views
  • Stop along the Riverwalk for dining and drinks
  • Connect to attractions like Millennium Park and Willis Tower

Using the water taxi turns transportation into part of the experience, making it one of the more fun things to do in Chicago, especially during the warmer months.

FAQs

Where does the Michigan Avenue water taxi go?

The Michigan Avenue water taxi connects to key locations including Navy Pier, Willis Tower, and other stops along the Chicago River.

How often does the Chicago water taxi run?

Water taxis typically run every 20 to 30 minutes, depending on weather and demand.

Is the water taxi a good way to avoid Chicago traffic?

Yes. The water taxi allows you to bypass road traffic entirely while traveling between major downtown destinations.

Is the Michigan Avenue water taxi worth it?

Yes. For many visitors, it offers a convenient and scenic way to get around while also providing views of the Chicago River and skyline.

Highlights in the Area

  • 360 Chicago — Chicago attraction near the water taxi dock

    360 Chicago

    Spend your day 1,000 feet above Chicago and the Magnificent Mile when you visit the 94th floor of 875 N. Michigan Ave. and take in a breathtaking, 360-degree view of the city.

  • Chicago Riverwalk — Chicago attraction near the water taxi dock

    Chicago Riverwalk

    This 1.25-mile path along the Chicago River is a gorgeous walking path and home to restaurants, shops, and public art displays open seasonally.

  • Magnificent Mile — Chicago attraction near the water taxi dock

    Magnificent Mile

    Stroll down Chicago's premier commercial district and enjoy luxe shopping, delicious dining, exciting entertainment, and more on this 13-block stretch of North Michigan Avenue.

  • Millennium Park — Chicago attraction near the water taxi dock

    Millennium Park

    Discover urban beauty, culture, art, and architecture in Millennium Park — home to the famous Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean"), concerts, events, and more.

  • The Art Institute of Chicago — Chicago attraction near the water taxi dock

    The Art Institute of Chicago

    One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., the Art Institute is a must visit and ranked as one of the "Best of the Best" U.S. attractions by Tripadvisor.

Nearby Places to Eat

Billy Goat Tavern — restaurant near the Chicago water taxi dock

Billy Goat Tavern

Labriola Chicago — restaurant near the Chicago water taxi dock

Labriola Chicago

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria — restaurant near the Chicago water taxi dock

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

Stan's Donuts & Coffee — restaurant near the Chicago water taxi dock

Stan's Donuts & Coffee

Chicago Boat & Architecture Tours | Shoreline Sightseeing
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