The city's bright yellow commuter water taxis will continue zipping around the Chicago River for a little longer this season. Due to increased customer demand and, presumably, warmer weather, the commuter service will remain in operation through December 15 instead of its usual Thanksgiving weekend closing date.
Chicago Water Taxi serves everyday commuters who take vessels to and from the Metra (Ogilvie/Union Stations) and offices in River North, Streeterville or the Loop.
According to Andrew Sargis, Chief of Operations at Chicago Water Taxi, "When the taxis shut down for the winter, the alternate routes that our commuters must take lead to a loss of time at work, or at home with their families due to the increased commute time. We are doing everything we can to minimize our downtime and expand our service."
This is the first time in seven years that the service has extended its season. Frequency will likely taper off as temperatures drop, but expect at least a few weekday trips in the climate-controlled vessels to remain available as long as the river remains clear of ice. Check out the complete water taxi schedule and begin planning one more long lunch break in Chinatown before the end of the year.