Quick Overview of the Main Docks

Main Cruise Area: Most popular Chicago River architecture cruises and sightseeing boats depart from the stretch of river near Michigan Avenue (DuSable Bridge) and along the Chicago Riverwalk on Wacker Drive.
Typical Boarding Piers: Piers on the north and south banks of the river between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive, plus some departures near Navy Pier for combined lake & river cruises.
Closest “L” Stations: State/Lake, Clark/Lake, Washington/Wabash (Loop elevated lines) and Grand (Red Line).
Nearby Landmarks: DuSable Bridge (Michigan Ave bridge), Chicago Riverwalk, Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building, and Michigan Avenue “Magnificent Mile”.

Best First-Time Starting Point

If you’re new to Chicago, aim for the DuSable Bridge at Michigan Avenue & Wacker Drive. From street level, take the stairs or ramps down to the Chicago Riverwalk. Most architecture cruises board from clearly signed piers along this section.

Where to Go on Arrival

Check your ticket for the exact company name and dock number. Common instructions include phrases like “Board at Riverwalk dock near Wacker & Michigan” or “Board on the north side of the river at Michigan Avenue”. Once you’re on the Riverwalk, follow the signs for your cruise line or ask staff in branded uniforms.

1.5-Hour Architecture Cruise Family-Friendly River Cruise

Option 1 — From The Loop & Downtown Hotels

Ideal if you’re staying near Millennium Park, the Theater District, or State Street.

  • Walk to the River: From Millennium ParkState Street, walk north along any major street (State, Wabash, Michigan) until you reach Wacker Drive and the river. This usually takes about 5–10 minutes from most central Loop hotels.
  • Head for Michigan Avenue & DuSable Bridge: Once at the river, walk toward the Michigan Avenue Bridge (DuSable Bridge). You’ll see landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower nearby.
  • Go Down to the Riverwalk: Use the stairways or ramps on each corner of the bridge to access the Chicago Riverwalk. Follow signage along the river for your specific cruise company and boarding gate.

Transit Tip for the Loop

If you’re already downtown, walking is fastest. Streets can be busy with traffic, while the river is just a few short blocks from many Loop hotels and “L” stations.

Option 2 — By “L” Train & Metra (Most Common)

Using the “L” from Around the City

Take any line that stops in or near the Loop, then walk to the river:

  • State/Lake (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple): walk 5–7 minutes north to Wacker & State, then east toward Michigan.
  • Clark/Lake (Blue + multiple lines): walk 7–10 minutes southeast along Lake Street toward Wacker & Michigan.
  • Washington/Wabash (Loop lines): walk north to Lake Street, then continue to Michigan & the river.
  • Grand (Red Line): walk south on State or Dearborn toward the river (10–12 minutes).

From Metra Stations

If you’re arriving on Metra commuter trains:

  • Ogilvie Transportation Center: walk east along Madison or Washington to the river (15–20 minutes) or take a short taxi/ride-hail ride to Michigan & Wacker.
  • Union Station: walk northeast toward the river and Wacker Drive (about 15–20 minutes) or use a taxi/ride-hail.

Using Buses

Several CTA buses serve Michigan Avenue and the downtown area. Get off near Michigan & Wacker or Michigan & Lake, then walk a short distance to the river and down to the Riverwalk.

Paying for Transit

Use a reusable Ventra card or tap a contactless bank card/phone at turnstiles and on buses. You’ll automatically get daily fare caps if you ride multiple times.

Wayfinding Tip

When in doubt, follow signs for the Chicago Riverwalk or ask for “Michigan and Wacker.” Once you’re at that intersection, you’re only a few steps away from most major cruise docks.

Option 3 — Scenic Walks via Riverwalk & Bridges

Walking along the Chicago Riverwalk is one of the most enjoyable ways to reach your cruise. You’ll pass cafés, public art, and stunning views of the skyline reflecting in the river.

  • From Millennium Park: Start at Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), walk north along Michigan Avenue until you reach the river, then go down to the Riverwalk. Walking time is about 10–12 minutes.
  • From the Magnificent Mile: If you’re shopping along North Michigan Avenue, walk south toward the river and cross the DuSable Bridge. From there, stairs lead down to both sides of the river.
  • From Chicago Riverwalk East/West: The Riverwalk stretches west toward Franklin Street and east toward Lake Shore Drive. Enjoy a stroll along the water and follow signs for your scheduled cruise dock.

Photo Tip

The best river photos are from the bridges (State, Dearborn, Wabash, Michigan) or from the Riverwalk looking back at the Wrigley Building and skyline. Arrive a little early to snap a few pictures before boarding.

From Chicago Airports to the River

O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Take the Blue Line “L” train from O’Hare all the way to the Loop (about 45 minutes). Get off at Clark/Lake or Washington stations. From there, walk 7–12 minutes to the Chicago River & Michigan Avenue docks, or use a short taxi/ride-hail.

Midway Airport (MDW)

From Midway, ride the Orange Line to the Loop. Get off at State/Lake or Washington/Wabash, then walk north to the river and east toward the Riverwalk boarding areas.

Taxi & Rideshare from Airports

Ask the driver to drop you near Michigan Avenue & Wacker Drive or at the exact pier address on your ticket (for example, a Wacker Drive or Riverwalk dock). This puts you very close to most cruise boarding points.

With Luggage

If you’re coming straight from the airport, try to travel with small bags only. Space on boats is limited and large suitcases may not be allowed onboard, especially on busy cruises.

Time Buffer

Chicago traffic and train delays can happen, so add an extra 30–45 minutes of travel time if you’re heading to a non-refundable cruise directly from the airport.

Driving, Parking & Bikes Near the Docks

Driving Downtown

Downtown Chicago streets around the Loop and Riverwalk can be very busy, especially on weekends and summer evenings. Leave extra time for one-way streets and possible congestion near Michigan Avenue.

Parking Garages

Look for paid parking garages on or near Wabash, State, Dearborn, and Michigan streets, or close to Navy Pier if your cruise departs from there. Reserve a spot in advance when possible, and plan a 5–10 minute walk from the garage to your pier.

Bike & Scooter Options

Chicago has Divvy bikes and e-scooters in many central neighborhoods. Dock or park them only at official stations and permitted areas, then walk the remaining blocks to the river. Riding is not allowed on the Riverwalk itself.

Accessibility

Many cruise companies offer accessible boarding via ramps or level entrances, but not all docks are identical. If you use a wheelchair or have mobility needs, check your ticket details or contact the operator ahead of time for the most accessible route and boarding point.

Practical Tips for Your Chicago River Cruise

Arrive Early

Plan to reach the dock 30 minutes before departure. This gives you time to find the correct pier, join the boarding line, and choose your preferred seating (top deck or indoor cabin).

Weather & What to Wear

It usually feels cooler and windier on the water than on land. Bring a light jacket, especially for evening or sunset cruises. In summer, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.

Tickets, Check-In & Seats

Have your mobile ticket or printed confirmation ready. Many cruises are first-come, first-served seating, so earlier boarding means better views from the upper deck or along the railings.

Food, Drinks & Restrooms

Most boats include onboard bars with drinks and light snacks. Some speciality trips, like brunch, lunch, or dinner cruises, serve full meals. Restrooms are usually on board, but it’s smart to stop at one on the Riverwalk before boarding in case of queues.

Brunch, Lunch & Dinner Cruises Sunset Cocktail & Architecture Tour

Getting There Cheatsheet

Main Cruise Area

Chicago River by Michigan Avenue & Wacker Drive, around the DuSable Bridge and Chicago Riverwalk.

Closest “L” Stations

Clark/Lake, State/Lake, Washington/Wabash, and Grand (Red Line) — all within a short walk of the main docks.

Typical Walk Times

Loop hotels → River docks: 5–15 minutes • Magnificent Mile → River docks: 5–10 minutes.

Best Time to Arrive

20–30 minutes before your scheduled cruise, especially in peak season or for popular sunset and fireworks departures.

Good for First-Timers

Classic architecture cruises are perfect introductions to the city and run during the day, at sunset, and sometimes after dark.

Lake Michigan Add-Ons

Want skyline views from the lake too? Look for cruises that combine the river and Lake Michigan or depart from Navy Pier.

Skip-the-Ticket-Line Cruises Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise

Ready for Your Chicago River Cruise?

Make your way to the Chicago Riverwalk and Michigan Avenue bridges, follow the signs to your pier, and settle in for classic skyline views, live architecture commentary, and a relaxed ride through the heart of Chicago.

See River Cruises & Tours