1,518 votes

Chicago Riverwalk

100 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois USA

Independent
Pet Friendly

Iconic Attraction

Our Take

The Chicago Riverwalk is the city's unofficial "second waterfront" (the first being Lake Michigan, of course.) The River is the lifeforce of Chicago; boat tours highlighting the history and architecture cruise it and it's the centerpiece of Chicago's massive St. Patrick's Day celebration. From the Riverwalk you can launch kayaks, board tiki-themed booze cruises, or even fish. Cafes, bars, and public art line the sidewalks as well... and don't forget to look up and gawk at the buildings rising above you.

by Anna Hider

“chicago's second lakefront”

The Chicago Riverwalk is an open, pedestrian waterfront located on the south bank of the main branch of the Chicago River in downtown Chicago, Illinois managed by MB Real Estate. It spans from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. Called the city's 'Second Lakefront', the Riverwalk contains restaurants, park-seating, boat rentals, and other activities. Its current and planned final extent was opened to Wolf Point in 2017.

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Reviewed by
emctrips

5 Reviews
0 Helpful

May 19, 2021

Rated 5.0

Pretty area to see some of Chicago’s buildings and stretch your legs. The sidewalks and water are both really clean/no trash and the paths are pretty wide that you can comfortably pass other people. It’s cool to see both in the daylight and at night since they light it up. Gorgeous photo opportunities as you are walking along.

Check out Chicago Brewhouse while you are there for some good food and drinks (indoor or outdoor dining). There are lots of restaurants with seating on the river, but some only offer outdoor seating so pay attention to that if it starts raining.

It reminds me a lot of a bigger version of the Providence River in Rhode Island.

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