Many of Chicago's best tourist attractions are located in the Loop. One that I believe people are sadly sleeping on is the Chicago Riverwalk. While not as well known as the one in San Antonio, this amazing stretch of walkway along the banks of the Chicago River is ideal for certain activities such as sightseeing, people watching, strolling, eating, etc. Today was like my second time descending the steps from the ever-so busy streets of America's third-largest city, a shortcut en route to Portillo's on the north side of the river, or River North. One gaze at the river, and I couldn't help but think about how it's dyed green every St. Patrick's Day. Private and tour vessels occasionally sailed by, adding to the vibrant environment all around me. One of these boats has people on an architectural tour. Depending on my mood and time, I may do one before I leave. And speaking of architecture, it was really awesome to take in much of Chicago's famous skyline at my own pace. The fact the weather was cooperative made for terrific pictures. And yes, I took one of the hotel owned by a very controversial former leader of the free world who shall remain nameless. *Laughs* Sure, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and little green spaces, but I feel that one part of the Riverwalk people should see is the memorial to the Chicagoans who gave their lives serving in Vietnam. TLDR: the Chicago Riverwalk is a must-see for visitors to the so-called most American of American cities. You won't be disappointed. read more

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What's more iconic in this city than the riverwalk?! (Ok, yeah, there's also the Bulls, Millennial Park, the skyscrapers, Wrigley Field, the Cubs - whatever!) The riverwalk is one of my favorite things about Chicago. It really elevates the city's energy, in my opinion. I'm a regular in this city, but last spring, I finally got to come visit during St Patty's weekend, and my sister + brother in law treated me to a very chilly architecture boat tour while the river was green! Aside from it being 40 degrees, it was a great experience. Definitely recommend doing one of the boat tours, or having some snacks and drinks at one of the places by the river. I've also seen people renting out their yacht, and you can have a little dinner or picnic and drinks while it's docked - pretty snazzy, I'd say! read more

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The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile long paved, beautiful path along the Chicago River and includes four distinct districts: The Confluence, The Arcade, The Civic, and the Esplanade. It's free to the public and open from 6 am - 11 pm. Previously, the river was heavily polluted. To improve sanitation, the city apparently reversed the flow of the main branch and south branch. Architect and urban planner Daniel Burnham introduced the vision of riverside promenades. It was in the 1970's when this vision started coming to life. Fast forward to 2022, the Chicago Riverwalk is a lively social center that has seen a great increase in public recreational use. Whether it's a leisurely stroll, scenic run, happy hour, boat rentals, boat tours, or people watching, the Chicago Riverwalk is an easy addition to any itinerary as it cuts through the heart of the city. I took a nice walk on the Riverwalk on my way to Millenium Park and was able to enjoy a portion of the path. With the Chicago skyscrapers as my backdrop, I enjoyed admiring the architecture and soaking in the sounds of the bustling city. Nothing like thoughtful urban planning which seemed to be the theme throughout my time in Chicago! The city's initiative to reclaim the Chicago River for the ecological, recreational and economic benefit of the city seems to be at the forefront of all the development in the area. What a great place to visit! Highly recommend even just walking a block or two if you're nearby. read more

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This area is such a nice area to walk through & check out the city & river views. During the day you can see plenty of people walking around, there are also river tours available which is a great way to check out the city. U can see all kinds of activity at the river, plenty of tour boats u also see kayaking which says a lot water has to be nice enough for people to even want to do that, there's also plenty of places to get some food or drinks. At night it's a whole different view , nice slow ride up the river is just the right way to end a day sunset views were lovely. This is a nice area to visit both during the day & night. read more

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Nice to take a walk or jump on the boats they have to tour around the river bank of Chicago. But FYI it's super expensive for a boat tour. read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Dinner cruise boat - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Chicago River Walk is one of my favorite attraction in Chicago. It's a great point of convergence. I mean stunning views, plenty of place to just relax and take in the city. People watch, take photos, take a hot tub of canoe on the river, gawk at tourist, and it just keeps going. Art on the Mart is great and there's a ton of places to grab some food or a drink. Definitely walk the length if you're visiting from the fork in The river on the west end to the navy pier. read more

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I'm shocked I never stopped to review the Riverwalk - because this is easily the best 5 stars! You get to enjoy the city up close and personal and honestly there are seating steps close to State street that are the perfect little hangout stop to sit and chat or read or think about life. The riverwalk has little restaurants along it and dint forget that you can always take a RIver Cruise to hear all about the city history and architecture. Just the greatest honestly read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

St patty's day fun, came from houston for this to my favorite city! Love it here always! read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago Riverwalk is located along the Chicago River and extends from Lake Michigan. You can get up close to the river and do anything from walk along it to using it as a path for your run across the city. All along the riverwalk there are restaurants, bars, parks, and boat rentals. There are many places along the riverwalk to sit and catch the views or people watch. If you prefer a more interactive experience the river walk is also the location of all the boat tours that go through all the great architecture in Chicago and the history of the buildings. If you want to do that I'd recommend the Chicago Architecture Foundation Boat Tour that's associated with the Chicago Architecture Center. Between locals and tourists, it's great to walk along this with the Chicago skyscrapers as beautiful backdrops. read more

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What. A. DREAM!!! If you want to experience the true beauty of Chicago, you need to take a stroll along the Riverwalk! The views are simply unparalleled. City views galore that are so immensely striking. Beautiful during the daytime but even more amazing in the night. The Chicago Riverwalk consists of a 1.25 mile multi-use trail that runs right in the heart of the city and parallels the beautiful Chicago River. While you're on the trail, you'll be able to soak in the sights and sounds of the bustling city. The park is shared with walkers, joggers and bicyclists. You'll find people from all walks of life enjoying this beautiful trail. Although it's quite popular, it presents this sort of peacefulness that it's quite entrancing. If you're brave, you can virtually have this trail all to yourself during the evenings of the colder seasons. But cold is truly an understatement. That windchill is no joke! I was freezing my arse off in early November when I found myself along this gorgeous trail. Was it worth the numb fingers, lips and ice cold face?! I'd say so. But I'd definitely come during the warmer months next time (which I'm sure any logical person would do). This city literally glows at night and the Chicago Riverwalk really illuminates those views. I would 100% recommend anyone who is visiting Chicago to check out this wonderful trail. If not for the trail and/or exercise, you must visit simply to take it those breathtaking views. Trust me, it's worth it. read more

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During my second Uber ride in Chicago, the driver recommended two places that I must see on my trip. This was one of them. I visited Chicago Riverwalk on my first day in Chicago. This is a great place to visit to get your daily steps in. There is plenty of real estate to walk along the Chicago River. Along the path are restaurants, bars, and boat rentals. There are also various places along the riverwalk to sit and take it all in. The Chicago Riverwalk was also a stop on a nightly tour I took with a local tour company. During my visit to Chicago I would often pass by the Riverwalk while en-route to a destination. It was always nice to see as well as the boat tours. I agree with my Uber driver, that it's a must-see destination, if you've never been to the Windy City. I'm fortunate to have visited this during my stay in Chicago. I highly recommend if you've never been. Also, if you live in the greater Chicago and have never been here, what are you waiting for? read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Chicago Riverwalk Entrance - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Get up close but not too close to Chicago's river, because who knows what's floating in it. If you didn't know there's a walkway called the Riverwalk around it you can take to avoid walking the busy sidewalks if you're a pedestrian. Many bicyclists and joggers use it too. Follow the river a long way and get some fresh air. That is if there's not a stench. Convenient to locate one of the boat tours along here. If walking around isn't so appealing, then an alternative is to ride a boat and relax. There's a few to choose from, but Chicago's First Lady is the most popular of these. Good way to also avoid crowds. Many people will be on the sidewalks, but the Riverwalk is comparatively wide open. It's a good way to connect popular landmarks. There's many along it, like not only the Willis Tower, but the Opera House and lots of other important buildings too. It goes all the way up to the Navy Pier, so that's a lot of bicycling. That's certainly too long of a walk for many people. Fun way to make your way around. It's too bad it closes sometimes. They won't allow access to it for the St. Patrick's Day river dyeing, so that's the only complaint for this. read more

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Very good restaurants and alot to do downtown Chicago. You can't go wrong visiting any part of the Riverwalk.

It is a must place to visit in central downtown Chicago. A happening place with tons of food options. Chicago skyline view is best from here and has a long walkway area on both sides of the river. Even from the bridges, nice photo opportunities when you are here. Restrooms were at regular distance intervals too. Don't forget to take a boat ride trip. It is worth it. Highly recommended place in Chicago. read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The Riverwalk is on my list of things to do while in Chicago. It's one of the few free things you can do if you're already in the River North area. When the weather is good, it's a great spot to sightsee and people watch. There are tons of bars and restaurants along this path. If you're a tourist or staycationing, the Riverwalk is also the platform for tour boat companies offering paid tours along the Chicago River. The only downside to the Riverwalk is taking the stairs to it. We were entering the Riverwalk from East Wacker Drive and the stairwell down was long and steep. On our decent, I didn't recall seeing any elevators and it doesn't appear to be ADA and stroller accessible. The wheelchair entrances are limited and supposedly found between N. Wabash and State Street. We were nowhere near the wheelchair entrance and were further east along this path. Think twice and carefully plan ahead if you're bringing family with physical challenges. However, if you're lucky enough to visit, the sights and sounds promise to grant you picturesque views of the city and the river. read more

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A must-visit when you are in Chicago. Great place to take a nice walk, enjoy some food, and take in the beautiful vistas and skyline. It is so vibrant. I enjoyed a lovely walk here today. I am doing an architecture boat tour tomorrow and am excited about that. read more

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So fun to experience!! Wear comfortable shoes because it is a lot of walking. There's shades on some parts of the walk and some where there's no shade. Restaurants and bars and eatery all around so indulge!! read more

My husband and i took a trip to chicago in May and we got very lucky to have great weather to enjoy the riverwalk. Our hotel was a few blocks away and we got to visit every day and grab some food and drinks while enjoying the beautiful river. We also took the architecture river tour and we highly recommend it. read more

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The Riverwalk is gorgeous day or night. We came down the steps to explore it on our first night of our stay at the adjacent Hyatt Regency, I ran through it during my morning jogs and we returned during our trip to Navy Pier, as the kids loved all the different climbing structures on the way. Overall, we were continually captured by the beauty of the Riverwalk with all the architectural gems casting their shadows and all the flurry of activity along and in the river. read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Beautiful nighttime view - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The Riverwalk is an over-mile-long stretch in the Loop that follows the river. It's the center of Chicago's urban canyon flanked by world-class architecture on both sides. There are four sections. The Esplanade, The Civic (along the main branch of the river), , and The Confluence (where the main, north, and south branches converge) has particular historical significance. It was the home of some of the first taverns and hotels in Chicago, but it was also the site of the Wigwam, where the Republican Convention of 1860 was held and Lincoln was selected as the nominee for president. The Civic has some boats and watertaxis, and he Bridgehouse Museum is also located here. There's a Vietnam Veterans memorial that has been constructed along the river in this district. Between the Civic and Confluence districts there are several restaurants and shops along the river. The Arcade district is so named due to the architecture in this section of the riverwalk. The spaces within the arcade are used by vendors for temporary spaces, with some seating nearby as well, so it's perfect for things like food carts and vendors. The Market is your headquarters for all the boat tours, whether you haven't yet purchased your ticket (there's a booth at which you can buy them), and you'll meet your boat down here as well, obviously. There are a few beer gardens and maybe even some food in the vicinity of the boats. A lot of planning and thought has gone into designing and developing the Riverwalk for recreational use. However, my biggest complaint is that it does not appear to be accessible--or is so in a very limited fashion. With all the planning and work that went into this, I am astounded that in the year of our lord 2022 (or in the lead-up to this year, when they were constructing all this) there was no way to make it accessible. I was worried that my mom, who has some breathing concerns, would not be able to make it up and down the stairs to and from the architecture cruise since it's about three stories' worth of stairs. I told her that if she wanted to wait with my nephew at the lower Wacker level, that I'd go up and get the car to pick her up there at the sidewalk... but she took a break and said she wanted to continue up. I'm still not sure that was the best choice for her to do, and unfortunately there would have been no way for her to get to the boat otherwise since this section of the riverwalk is largely cut off from the rest. Had we borrowed a wheelchair to make it easier for her so she wouldn't lose her breath, it seems like she wouldn't have been able to go at all. I'll go back because I need a photo of the Vietnam memorial for a scavenger hunt, and I want to go to the Bridgehouse museum and watch the bridge lifts. But the lack of accessibility is a real turn-off; a single entrance/exit on a 1.25 mile stretch of river is simply not enough. read more

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Nothing like thoughtful urban development allowing people to easily gather around what's naturally occurring in our cities! Coming from Rochester, a city currently on a riverfront journey of our own, the Chicago Riverwalk is a North Star for what is possible. I enjoy running and walking the canal anytime I have the opportunity to visit Chicago. A great option, if you're staying in River North like I was this past trip, is to head north and run the trail up to Navy Pier. There's tons to see, great people watching, boat tours, and all of it is a must do while you're here. I am excited for my next trip and the opportunity to marvel at Chicago's architecture and feeling from the comfort of the Riverwalk. read more

What a beautiful sight to see! The river is just beautifully flowing and there are boats that offer tours and I seen people kayaking as well. It's right alongside Merchandise Mart, restaurants and other businesses. Take a walk along the river walk, or bike or even jog. Again, there's restaurants and other interesting things along the way as well like people offering free fishing, live music, and art. There's seating around to if you want to have lunch or just get some fresh air. I loved the elevated train rail and train passing through which adds to the charm of the area. This was one of my favorite places while visiting. read more

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Walkabouts by the riverwalk what more could you ask for at a time when everything is closed down it's all about the scenery of the city and the beautiful vibe of the water to enjoy! Basically we stopped here on our way through the city because why not it was a good place to hangout and walk around after several hours in the car! It's Chicago so you know the parking is bad so just find a spot and you'll be good as there's a lot to walk wile your here! The city views here are beautiful and definitely worth a night visit or two just enjoy it for what it is water and talk buildings! Overall I love this area of the city it's always an amazing spot to waste some time and get some views of the city! As for that you sooo know that I'll be back here again at some point to enjoy the beautiful scenery of this awesome city! read more

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I've been to this city several times and no visit is complete without visiting Riverwalk. You are below street level, and it becomes its own world with the reflecting light from the skyscrapers. Plenty of seating areas and some businesses along the way. You can also catch a riverboat tour. read more

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Not sure how busy this area gets later in the day but it was such a peaceful stroll here in the morning. Pristine Chicago River with downtown skyscrapers all around. There are plenty of food spots within walking distance so it's pretty convenient to grab a bite after walking here a bit. Definitely a destination to go to if you're in Chicago! read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Fun city experience! And the good selection are great and they have so many activities around the city and cool new spots! read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Navy pier - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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They did it big. If you haven't been in the last 20 years you need to get there ASAP. Everything is completely walkable. You can walk and sit then walk some more. There are laser movies every night until November I think. You can also smoke a cigar in a nice comfortable set while watching boats and barges float through. read more

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This Chicago river walk is a wonderful walk around the river in Chicago. It features many beautiful sights to see and to visit. I love Chicago and I love river walks. This is a really nice one that has many cool things to see and nice walking area read more

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The Riverwalk is still beautiful in spite of the cold weather, snow and ice. It is shockingly nicely cleaned and swept immediately after a snowstorm. The pictures speak for themselves. This is such a nice way to walk across the loop. read more

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PICTURESQUE and a MUST SEE when you're in the WINDY CITY!!! It's located in downtown and if you walk along the river there are all these trendy establishments, bars, restaurants, and great building to view along the way! We also did the architectural river cruise which goes in the middle of the city !!! Highly recommend this part of CHI!!! read more

Went on a whim over Labor Day weekend. If you're looking for things to do for free, dining, or a long stroll this is for you. City winery is on the river, a few bars, a cider joint I've been meaning to checkout. We saw people canoeing, boat tours going by and many, many dogs. I had a stroller and unfortunately it was not easily accessible to get down. There is a long flight of stairs, a few guys helped me get down (on Wacker and Lasalle entrance) no ramp, there's a ramp further further down and we still couldn't find it. read more

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Just look at the glowing reviews of the Riverwalk! What's not to love about summertime / springtime Chi when it comes to picturesque views of the skyscrapers along the water. When the lights are glowing at night it makes for even more magical pics. When you walk along the river there are brew houses and wineries plus restaurants to appease your appetite. I would highly suggest getting there via the CTA public transit because driving and parking downtown is overwhelming unless you're used to traffic, fast cars, cars that abruptly stop, and little use of turn signals. Great way to walk at your pace and soak in the city life! read more

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Really just a beautiful area in the city. River views (obviously!), lots of restaurants, a beer garden, some playgrounds, plenty of seating. Being right along the water's edge helps keep the temperature down a bit even when it's hot and humid. Plenty of people watching and things to do for all ages. Dog friendly, too! read more

Chicago Riverwalk - View from the Riverwalk at the base of the Michigan Ave. bridge. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Nice river scene all along the Downtown area! I like how they have bars and venues along the river lane. It's quite pleasant to take a stroll here. Cruise on the architecture tour about the sky rises, recommended if one hasn't gone before. It's a good rundown around the shapes of the buildings along the river. read more

We love the Riverwalk!! Most of my time here is spent walking my pup or lounging with a drink in hand. read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The view of Chicago from the Riverwalk is amazing! It's right in the middle of downtown so it's very convenient to get around. You can even take boat tours of the city. read more

What a commitment a city makes to keep something like this open, so clean, so beautiful. I'm a runner, and was visiting Chicago recently, and enjoyed beyond belief how wonderful it was to have this long stretch of uninterrupted running with wide enough openings to feel like you weren't crowded by all the other runners. And for the most part bikers were asked to stay off and did. It connects to the lake front Trail, making it a wonderful opportunity for getting outside. read more

Chicago Riverwalk - Coming across the bridge onto the Riverwalk - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I've lived in this city 10+ years and never completely walked the riverwalk. When I had heard Rahm was focusing on transforming the riverwalk into a beautiful public space, and that the Community Marketplace was completed this summer, I decided it was time to play tourist and check things out. I gotta say the riverwalk looks fantastic now! But the secret is out because on an early Friday evening the riverwalk was packed with people! I love the hustle and bustle of it all though so I think its great! There's a lot of restaurants and eateries by the riverwalk now. And if you want to take your food to go, the community marketplace is a great place for grab and go stuff. There's tables and chairs right next to the marketplace so you can enjoy your food and the views. You can also rent boats, or kayaks or go fishing by the riverwalk. Along the path there's tons of seating either on chairs, or stairs, or wooden benches. The Chicago architecture is absolutely amazing from the riverwalk. I love that they created little sections on the riverwalk so that you can stop and take pictures of the river and the views without blocking the rest of the pedestrian traffic. You can tell they were really thoughtful in the design of the walkway. I will definitely need to come and visit this place more often. read more

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lively! crowded! plenty of places to eat and drink! great place to sit in the concrete bleachers and people watch!

When in Chicago you know you have to come here and check out the infamous Chicago Riverwalk. Tons of stuff to see here. From sightseeing to food to brewery. We also took the Architecture boat tour and that was awesome as well. It was 90 mins of sailing around and looking at all the towers and understanding the history behind them was awesome. Learn alot and see tons of buildings. If you guys are here in Chicago this is must see read more