Walking The Chicago Riverwalk:

An Immersive Experience

The city of Chicago wouldn’t be complete without the Chicago Riverwalk. This area provides must-see views of the Chicago River, allowing you to witness a whole new perspective of the beautiful waters. Beginning at Lake Michigan and ending at Lake Street, the Chicago Riverwalk is an essential part of your stay in the Windy City. Today we will be covering what exactly the Riverwalk is, and the best things to do during your time there.

What is the Chicago Riverwalk?

The Chicago Riverwalk stretches 1.25 miles, winding through the alluring downtown area of the Chicago River. It connects to multiple neighborhoods, public spaces, and landmarks, offering a variety of experiences. The path itself contains some of the most stunning architecture, parks, public art, and fine dining.

It serves both for relaxation and outdoor recreation, making this former industrial section of the city a vibrant public space. It is designed specifically for pedestrians and cyclists alike, making it an inviting traveling experience.

Chicago Riverwalk: Things To Do 

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a bite to eat, or engaging in one of the various water activities, the Chicago Riverwalk provides something for you. Here is a list of some of the best activities to do on the Riverwalk:

Take a Boat Tour

The Boat Tours are a great way to see the stunning Chicago skyscrapers from a rather unique location. These guided tours are a great way to learn more about the city, its history and architecture. Hang out with the locals or your loved ones, as you cruise through the city.

Relax at a Park

The Riverwalk has a bunch of small parks where you can kick back and relax. Their “Chairs on the River” concept provides bright orange Adirondack chairs, benches, and amphitheater-style seating for you to relax on. Bring a book and read, or watch as the boats go by. Some of the parks even make a great place for a picnic, where you can unwind in a peaceful environment.

Fine Dining

You will find, along the Riverwalk, that there are a bunch of bars, cafes, and restaurants with riverside seating. Whether you’re sipping on wines at the City Winery, or munching on some pub-styled delights at the Chicago Brewhouse, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. Many of the spots offer cocktails, local brews, and a variety of cuisines, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.

Kayak or Paddleboard

For our active folk, try renting or bringing a kayak or paddleboard to travel along the river. Companies such as  Urban Kayaks are a great resource for renting your selected craft. Paddle along the river and view the towering skyscrapers above you with an experience unlike any other. Crowd watch or boat watch from within the Chicago River, and enjoy the unique journey.

Walk or Bike the Path

For a simpler experience, take a walk along the path itself. It is well-maintained and runs parallel to the river, showing stunning views of the city’s landscape. Additionally, take a bike ride through their bike-share program, Divvy, and explore beyond the Riverwalk into the great city beyond.

Visit the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

Finally, you can visit the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which showcases the Chicago River’s history. It additionally presents the history of the bridges in Chicago, as well as the various engineering marvels, such as the incredible skyscrapers, that have graced the Windy City. It is an excellent stop for anyone interested in learning more about Chicago’s past.