Thanks for all the help. We think we can get a slip at the marina where we are staying?? They do not take reservations. Guess you could say flying by the seat of our pants.
Ms Patri, you know about LOTO it seems, and yes it would be nice to find a place to have dinner, drink by water. Sounds like sights seeing is what's in store??? Really have no idea what to expect. We will have our children, teens. Guess is it worth hauling from St Louis to boat in your area? Should we just bring wave runners and let the kids have fun?

Wally,
We can boat the river into Chicago?? That does sound neat. Do we go through the lock? Silly question I know,, but never been there?? Your info very helpful, thanks for taking the time to write. If you make to Lake of the Ozarks I can help you out,,,

I tried to PM you and email you through the site but it says you have not chosen to receive any, I am not sure why...... we don't bite and more importantly the info is not public. If you want any more help PM me with an email address or a contact number, I was going to give you Mr P's and mine. If not have fun, and we will catch you next time.
Donna

Man the more I read this I think you are one confusing dude , "we think we can get a slip at the marina we are staying" what does that mean, most people stay at a hotel, a marina is for boats so where are you staying ??? No more typing info for me; PM me with a number and I will try to help

Yup take the river right through downtown.....you can take the south branch around and if you know where your going you can take it down and around and end back out in Lake MI just south of chicago near Calumet.....ive heard theres a few bars on the water there but never have made that trip yet.

Yes you go through the locks....real easy to do....the comercial ships have priority over recreational vessels....make sure you have life jackets for everyone onboard!!! they will not let you through if you dont or if someone happens to not be wearing one.

Oh and on Wed and Saturday nights they have fireworks for navy pier at i think 9:30 pm. Lots of boats turn out for it and its a neat thing to see with the city skyline on the background.

If you have any more questions feel free to ask....i'll help ya anyway i can

Fireworks, kids will enjoy that. We are sure going to try the river, sounds neat..;. except the going through the lock deal. Really great info wally,,, thanks.