Chicago Cruise Port
River Cruises - United States
About Chicago Cruise Port
Port Overview
Chicago, Illinois, serves as an inland stop for cruises docking at Milwaukee, 90 minutes north by train. The city, population 2.7 million, features the Art Institute with Impressionist collections. Travelers visit the Willis Tower Skydeck. Local markets sell deep-dish pizza. Excursions to Oak Park, 20 minutes west, explore Frank Lloyd Wright homes. Peak season April to October; trains 10-20 USD. Dining includes hot dogs at Loop stands. Souvenirs feature skyline models.
River Cruises - United States
River Cruises - United States
70°F / 1°F
avg high / low in March
🚢 Itineraries
4
cruise itineraries
🎯 Excursions
0
available excursions
🛡️ Safety Score
6.0 / 10
#66 of 71 in River Cruises - United States
Quick Links
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Cruises to Chicago
Chicago Upcoming Cruise Itineraries
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Chicago, Illinois
Cruise Port Location
The Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port is located on the Illinois River in Ottawa, Illinois. It is about 80 miles southwest of Chicago and is easily accessible from Interstate 80. The port is located on the north side of the river, just off of Route 71. The port offers a variety of amenities, including a full-service marina, a restaurant, a gift shop, and a variety of other services. The port is also home to a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and sightseeing.
What to Do
Chicago Top Activities & Attractions
Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is known for its variety of activities and attractions. From outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing, to cultural attractions like museums, galleries, and theaters, there is something for everyone. The city also offers a variety of shopping and dining experiences, as well as a vibrant nightlife. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Ottawa Blues Festival and the Ottawa International Film Festival. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and exciting experience.
Chicago Fun Facts
The Windy City
Chicago is often referred to as the 'Windy City' due to the strong winds that blow through the city. This nickname was first used in the late 19th century by a New York journalist who was referring to the city's long-winded politicians. The city's nickname has since become a symbol of its spirit and resilience.
Chicago Cruise Port Excursions
Chicago Popular Shore Tours
Explore the best excursions and tours near Chicago cruise port. From guided sightseeing to adventure activities, find the perfect way to make the most of your time at this cruise port.
Cruise Port Schedule
Chicago Cruise Port Ships & Passenger Count
How many people will be in Chicago cruise port during your visit? Which other ships will be docked? Use the date selector below to find cruise port traffic for Chicago on any date.
No ships scheduled
No cruise ships are in port at Chicago on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Chicago Cruise Terminals
Burnham Harbor Cruise Terminal
Burnham Harbor Cruise Terminal is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, on the shore of Lake Michigan. It is the third largest cruise port in the city, and offers a variety of cruises to destinations around the world. The terminal is equipped with modern amenities, including a full-service restaurant, a bar, and a gift shop. It is also home to a variety of entertainment options, including live music, movies, and more.
Explore Chicago Cruise Port
Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is a popular cruise port destination. Excursions in the area include exploring the city's vibrant culture, visiting historical sites, and taking in the stunning views of the city skyline. There are also plenty of opportunities to shop, dine, and enjoy the nightlife. Nature lovers can take advantage of the nearby parks and trails, while those looking for a more adventurous experience can take a boat tour or go fishing. No matter what type of experience you're looking for, Chicago (Ottawa) has something for everyone.
The beaches near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port are located along the Illinois River. The closest beach is located at Starved Rock State Park, which is about a 30-minute drive from the port. This beach is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Other nearby beaches include Buffalo Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, and Channahon State Park. All of these beaches offer stunning views of the river and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Marseilles State Park Beach
Marseilles State Park Beach is a great beach located near the Ottawa, Illinois cruise port. It is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by lush green trees and is a great place to take in the stunning views of the Illinois River. There are also plenty of trails for hiking and biking, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The beach also has a playground and picnic area, making it a great spot for families.
Buffalo Rock State Park Beach
Buffalo Rock State Park Beach is a popular beach located near the Ottawa, Illinois cruise port. It is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by beautiful sandstone bluffs and is a great place to take in the stunning views of the Illinois River. There are also plenty of trails for hiking and biking, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The beach also has a playground and picnic area, making it a great spot for families.
Starved Rock State Park Beach
Starved Rock State Park Beach is a popular beach located near the Ottawa, Illinois cruise port. It is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by beautiful sandstone bluffs and is a great place to take in the stunning views of the Illinois River. There are also plenty of trails for hiking and biking, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is known for its antique stores, vintage shops, and unique boutiques. The city is also home to a variety of specialty stores, including art galleries, bookstores, and music stores. Additionally, the city is home to a number of farmers markets, offering fresh produce and other locally-sourced goods.
The Ottawa Farmers Market
The Ottawa Farmers Market is a great shopping option near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. It offers a variety of locally-grown produce, as well as handmade crafts and souvenirs. You can find everything from homemade jams and jellies to handmade jewelry and pottery. The market also has a variety of food vendors, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. It's a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs to take home with you.
The Ottawa Antique Mall
The Ottawa Antique Mall is a great place to find unique souvenirs near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. It offers a wide selection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. You can find everything from vintage clothing to antique furniture. The mall also has a cafe, so you can grab a snack while you browse the selection. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home with you.
The Ottawa Mall
The Ottawa Mall is a great shopping option near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. It offers a variety of stores, including clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The mall also has a food court, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. It's a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs to take home with you.
Chicago Weather Forecast
Average Monthly Weather
March
Typical Weather
Average High
Average Low
Rainfall
Daily average
2.4 in monthly total
Chicago Cruise Port FAQ
Quick answers about Chicago cruise port covering location, safety, weather, excursions, and more.
Chicago, Illinois cruise port is located in River Cruises - United States. The Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port is located on the Illinois River in Ottawa, Illinois. It is about 80 miles southwest of Chicago and is easily accessible from Interstate 80. The port is located on the north side of the river, just off of Route 71. The port offers a variety of amenities, including a full-service marina, a restaurant, a gift shop, and a variety of other services. The port is also home to a variety of recreational activities, such as fishing, boating, and sightseeing.
No, Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is not a good cruise port. The closest cruise port to Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is the Port of Chicago, located in Chicago, Illinois.
Chicago cruise port has a safety score of 6.0 out of 10, ranking #66 of 71 ports in River Cruises - United States. The Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port is generally considered to be a safe port. The port is well-maintained and monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard and local law enforcement. The port also has a security team on-site to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
In March, Chicago cruise port has average high temperatures of 70°F (21°C) and average lows of 1°F (-17°C).
Chicago cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Sightseeing, Dining, Shopping. Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is known for its variety of activities and attractions. From outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing, to cultural attractions like museums, galleries, and theaters, there is something for everyone. The city also offers a variety of shopping and dining experiences, as well as a vibrant nightlife. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Ottawa Blues Festival and the Ottawa International Film Festival. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and exciting experience.
1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers a wide selection of rental cars near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. They have a variety of vehicles to choose from, including economy, luxury, and SUV options. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.2. Hertz: Hertz offers car rental services near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.3. Avis: Avis offers car rental services near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.4. Budget: Budget offers car rental services near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.5. National Car Rental: National Car Rental offers car rental services near the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options. They also offer special discounts for cruise passengers.
Unfortunately, there is no public wifi access available at the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port.
The address of the Chicago (Ottawa), Illinois cruise port is:1000 Canal Street, Ottawa, IL 61350
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Chicago today. Use the Cruise Port Traffic tool above to check the cruise schedule for Chicago on any past or future date.