Chicago Water Taxi runs two routes on the Chicago River. The Main Branch connects Michigan Avenue, Ogilvie/Union in the West Loop, and Chinatown. The North Branch runs between Chicago Avenue and Ogilvie/Union. If your trip crosses both branches, Ogilvie/Union is where you transfer. This guide breaks down both routes so you board the right one the first time.
Quick Answer: Which Route Should You Take?
Take the Main Branch if you are traveling to or from Michigan Avenue, Ogilvie/Union, or Chinatown. It is the longer central route through the river corridor.
Take the North Branch if you are traveling between Chicago Avenue and Ogilvie/Union. It is a shorter, faster ride — approximately 15 minutes — and currently operates on a limited Friday through Sunday schedule.
Transferring between branches? Ogilvie/Union is the connection point. Board the North Branch at Chicago Avenue, ride to Ogilvie/Union, and transfer to the Main Branch for Michigan Avenue or Chinatown.
Route Comparison at a Glance
| Route | Stops | Approx. Trip Length | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Branch | Michigan Avenue, Ogilvie/Union, Chinatown | 25–45 minutes | Michigan Avenue, West Loop connections, Chinatown |
| North Branch | Chicago Avenue, Ogilvie/Union | ~15 minutes | Chicago Avenue to West Loop, quick branch travel |
Trip lengths and schedules observed during research. Confirm current schedules, stops, and fares on the Chicago Water Taxi website before riding.
The Practical Verdict
If your destination is Michigan Avenue or Chinatown, the Main Branch is your route. It runs the length of the central river corridor and covers all three of those stops in a single ride.
If your destination is Chicago Avenue, the North Branch is your route. It is faster and more direct, but runs a limited schedule — Friday through Sunday only, based on observed service times. Check the current schedule before you plan around it.
If your trip touches both branches, build around Ogilvie/Union. That is where you get off one boat and board the other.
Main Branch Route: Stops, Docks, and When to Use It
The Main Branch is the primary Chicago Water Taxi route. It runs between Michigan Avenue on the northeast end and Chinatown to the south, with a stop at Ogilvie/Union in the West Loop in between.
Main Branch Stops
- Michigan Avenue — 400 N Michigan Ave
- Ogilvie/Union — South Branch Chicago River (West Loop)
- Chinatown — Ping Tom Park East, 1700 S Wentworth Ave
All passengers must disembark at the end of the route — either Chinatown or Michigan Avenue. The route does not loop back on the same ticket.
Use the Main Branch When:
- You are starting or ending near 400 N Michigan Avenue
- You are connecting to Ogilvie Station, Union Station, or the West Loop
- You are heading to or from Chinatown at Ping Tom Park
- You want a scenic river ride through the central corridor
Note: Chicago Avenue is not a direct Main Branch stop. To reach Chicago Avenue, use the Main Branch to Ogilvie/Union, then transfer to the North Branch.
View the Main Branch Route schedule and stops
North Branch Route: Stops, Docks, and When to Use It
The North Branch is a shorter route connecting Chicago Avenue to Ogilvie/Union. It runs approximately 15 minutes and is the direct connection for riders starting near the 600 W Chicago Ave dock.
North Branch Stops
- Chicago Avenue — 600 W Chicago Ave
- Ogilvie/Union — South Branch Chicago River (West Loop)
Use the North Branch When:
- You are starting or ending at Chicago Avenue
- You need to reach Ogilvie/Union from the North Branch
- You want to connect from Chicago Avenue to Michigan Avenue or Chinatown via transfer
The North Branch was observed operating Friday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with departure times varying by dock. That schedule must be confirmed on the live route page before you plan around it — limited service days make this route time-sensitive.
View the North Branch Route schedule and stops
How Transfers Work at Ogilvie/Union
Ogilvie/Union is the only transfer point between branches. If your trip requires both routes, you get off at Ogilvie/Union and board the connecting route there.
Here is the transfer logic by origin and destination:
- Michigan Avenue to Ogilvie/Union: Main Branch only
- Michigan Avenue to Chinatown: Main Branch only
- Chinatown to Ogilvie/Union: Main Branch only
- Chicago Avenue to Ogilvie/Union: North Branch only
- Chicago Avenue to Michigan Avenue: North Branch to Ogilvie/Union, then transfer to Main Branch
- Chicago Avenue to Chinatown: North Branch to Ogilvie/Union, then transfer to Main Branch
Plan your transfer before you board. Buying the wrong ticket for the wrong branch adds time and a second fare to your trip.
Fares, Tickets, and Onboard Details
Both routes share the same fare structure and onboard policies. Here is what the route pages listed during research:
Fares (Observed — Recheck Before Riding)
- One-way ticket: $10.00
- Seniors: $5.00 (50% off one-way)
- Persons with disabilities: 50% off one-way tickets
- Children 3 and younger: free
- Active duty military with valid ID: free
Tickets do not expire by date — only by use. You can buy in advance without worrying about a use-by date.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible route options are available but limited and subject to availability. Riders who need accessible boarding must reserve in advance by calling 312-337-1446. Confirm current accessibility availability on the live route page before your trip.
Onboard Policies
- Water taxis operate rain or shine
- Restrooms available onboard
- Three out of four water taxis are climate controlled
- Drinks and snacks available for purchase
- Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted
- Bikes and luggage are welcome
- Season generally runs March through end of December
Navy Pier Note
Chicago Water Taxi does not stop at Navy Pier. The Michigan Avenue dock is approximately one mile west of Navy Pier. If Navy Pier is your destination, plan for a walk or a separate transit connection from the Michigan Avenue stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Chicago Water Taxi route goes to Chinatown?
Take the Main Branch Route for Chinatown. The Main Branch stops at Ping Tom Park East, 1700 S Wentworth Ave, along with Michigan Avenue and Ogilvie/Union in the West Loop.
Which route goes to Chicago Avenue?
Take the North Branch Route for Chicago Avenue. The North Branch connects 600 W Chicago Ave to Ogilvie/Union in the West Loop. Note that North Branch service is limited — confirm the current schedule on the live route page before your trip.
Can I transfer between the Main Branch and North Branch?
Yes. Ogilvie/Union is the transfer point between both routes. Ride the North Branch from Chicago Avenue to Ogilvie/Union, then board the Main Branch to reach Michigan Avenue or Chinatown — or reverse that trip in the other direction.
Does Chicago Water Taxi go to Navy Pier?
No. Chicago Water Taxi does not stop at Navy Pier. The Michigan Avenue dock is approximately one mile west of Navy Pier. You will need to walk or use a separate transit connection if Navy Pier is your final destination.
How much is a one-way ticket?
During research, one-way tickets were listed at $10.00, with seniors and persons with disabilities paying $5.00. Children 3 and younger ride free. Active duty military with a valid ID also ride free. Confirm current fares on the Chicago Water Taxi website before riding, as prices may change.
