Chicago Boat Show Ticket Info
All ticket sales are now online We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. ! Please note that this is the only website authorized to sell genuine tickets for the Discover Boating Chicago Boat Show. Beware of any other sellers or websites claiming to offer genuine tickets, as they are not authorized distributors. Tickets purchased on any other website are not valid for admission to this year’s showHours
Date/Time - January 28-February 1, 2026 WED - 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM THU - 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM FRI - 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM SAT - 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM SUN - 10:00 AM - 5:00 PMChicago Boat Show FAQs
Can I buy tickets onsite?
Credit card kiosks will be in the lobby of the show. No cash sales will be available.
Are there ticket discounts?
Yes, there are pre-show discounted tickets. Follow our Facebook and Instagram accounts (linked in the footer) and sign up for our newsletter for promotions throughout the year.
Do I have to print out my ticket(s) before I go to the show?
You don't have to print your ticket(s). It can be shown on a mobile device.
Can I come back the same day? Can I come back tomorrow with the wristband?
Tickets are valid for one day only. You must buy another ticket to attend another day.
Can I gift my ticket to someone else, even if it has my name on it?
Yes. As long as the ticket is in possession of the attendee, it can be used.
Will there be RVs in the show?
RVs are no longer on display in the show.
Will there be sail seminars?
Sail seminars are no longer offered at the show.
What is the cost of parking?
Parking is $15 at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center Parking Garage.
Is there Handicapped Parking?
Accessible parking is available in the Donald E Stephens Convention Center Parking Garage, it has an enclosed walkway and free shuttle bus service. The front entrance is suggested drop-off for accessibility.
Is there wheelchair and scooter rental available?
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center offers a limited number of wheelchairs for rental to enhance the comfort and accessibility of our facilities for all guests. The rental rate is set at $50.00 per day.
Can I bring my dog/pet into the show?
Due to health and safety regulations, pets (including pets that fit in a carry bag/stroller) are not allowed at NMMA Boat Shows, except for service dogs.
Is there a lost and found?
Yes, please visit the show office.
Do you have a coat check? Can I leave my luggage at the coat check?
Yes, coat check service is located in the lobby. Permanent coat checks areas are located on the levels 1 & 2 of the Conference Center.
Is food and/or drinks available at the show?
Yes, there is something for everyone. There are multiple consessions throughout the show that provide food and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcohlic).
Do you have activities for kids?
Yes, we have multiple kids activities that can be found at https://www.chicagoboatshow.com/features
Can I bring a stroller?
For the convenience and safety of our guests strollers are permitted, but only in the main showcase area.
Can I get on the boats?
Yes; however, some exhibitors have special boarding rules. Please respect their requests.
Will I be required to take my shoes off prior to boarding boats?
In most cases, yes. Please see the exhibitor's rules prior to boarding the boat.
Why go to a boat show?
There’s a boat for every lifestyle, activity and budget, and a show allows you to compare all your options at one time, in one place.