Know Before You Go: Exploring the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk’s location in the heart of Chicago makes it a must-see destination for visitors of all ages. It’s an excellent introduction to the city’s vast skyscrapers and urban landscape, as you can admire some of the best Chicago architecture views. Meander along, looking at the Reid Murdoch building, Merchandise Mart, the twin-like Marina Towers, Tribune Tower, and the well-known Wrigley Building.

You can also stop by beer gardens, gelato shops, and restaurants; snap photos in front of the movable bridges as they open and close; watch as Chicago’s architectural boat tours glide down the water; and view the public art at the Chicago Riverwalk—there’s something fun for everyone.

The best times to visit the Chicago Riverwalk are late spring, all summer, and early fall (between May and October). It’s best to experience the walk during warm weather, as Chicago can get extremely cold (and even snowy) in the winter months. You’ll find the most to do—outdoor patio seating, live music, festivals, and more—during the summer months.

The Chicago Riverwalk is open from 6am to 11pm daily, but the most popular times to visit are midday and when the sun sets (this is when you get to see the Chicago skyline all lit up).

Insider tip: Beat the crowds by visiting early in the morning, when the river and its surroundings are calmer, although many of the walk’s attractions will likely be closed.

Reach the Chicago Riverwalk by Metra trains, which stop at either Union Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center. Then, walk to the Lake Street Entrance. You can take the CTA Red line, exiting at State and Lake Streets (enter the walk at State Street), or the CTA Blue line, exiting at Clark and Lake Streets (enter the walk at Clark Street).

You could also catch the water taxi and exit between Ogilvie and the Riverwalk’s River Theater. It’s also possible to drive to the Chicago Riverwalk—although the walk doesn’t have a dedicated parking garage, several private garages are located nearby.

Visiting the Chicago Riverwalk is free of charge and open to the public. That said, many of the attractions along the walk, including the Chicago Riverwalk restaurants and bars, are only free if you look. You’ll have to pay for anything you consume, such as having a beer in a riverfront beer garden, eating a meal at a restaurant, or purchasing souvenirs. Other Chicago River attractions, such as Chicago boat tours, also require a fee.

Of course, it’s always free to sit on benches along the Chicago Riverwalk and enjoy the Chicago architectural views. Additionally, kids can enjoy play areas without incurring any costs.

There are plenty of things to do at the waterfront on your own, but taking a tour of the Chicago Riverwalk with a guide to lead you through this special attraction can help you understand more about the city and the history of the river, architecture, and beyond.

There are walking tours that follow the Riverwalk, kayaking tours and boat tours on the river itself, food tours, and even bike tours that can take your Chicago Riverwalk adventure to the next level.

Did you know?: Bikes are allowed on the Chicago Riverwalk, but pedestrians always have precedence. There are also some designated areas where you have to walk your bike, so pay attention to signage along the route.

The Chicago Riverwalk path is 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) long, and it can take you anywhere from 30–45 minutes (if you’re moving briskly) to a few hours if you stop at stores, have a glass of wine, or break for lunch. This means you should plan to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Chicago is known as the Windy City for a reason, and it often experiences a wide range of weather conditions. So check the forecast and be sure to take along a hat, sunglasses, layers, a windbreaker, or an umbrella.

Insider tip: Feel free to dress as you wish, but keep in mind that most of the eateries and shops are casual, so jeans, a T-shirt, and sneakers are perfectly fine.

The Chicago Riverwalk is accessible and relatively flat, making it appropriate for wheelchairs, as well as for families with strollers. There are four ADA-compliant ramps that provide access to the Chicago Riverwalk. These are located at Upper Wacker and the Riverwalk, the east side of State Street, the west side of Clark Street, and the west side of Franklin Street.

Many of the restaurants and businesses along the Chicago Riverwalk (especially those with outdoor patios) can accommodate wheelchairs, though it’s best to check directly with the business to confirm ahead of time.

• Can I take my dog to the Chicago Riverwalk? Yes, dogs are allowed on the Riverwalk. Just be respectful of other walkers and keep them on-leash at all times.

• Can I view the river when it’s dyed green? The Chicago River is dyed green each year for the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Although the weather isn’t always the best in March, you can see the river bright green on the Saturday of the parade, annually.

• Does the Riverwalk have elevators? Currently, there are no elevators at the Chicago Riverwalk. However, there are four ADA-compliant ramps, and there are plans to add elevators in the future.

• Why is the Chicago Riverwalk so famous? The Chicago Riverwalk offers views of the city’s most memorable architectural landmarks and bridges. The Chicago River itself is a highlight of the city, and it feeds into Lake Michigan—no trip to Chicago is complete without checking out these famous waterways.