Chicago Riverwalk
4.5
Historic Walking Areas
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Located on the south bank of the Chicago River, this bustling urban space is filled with public art, museums, water activities, and more.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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The area
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Neighborhood
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Downtown / The Loop
Often visitors' first stop in Chicago, The Loop is a good starting point to sample the city's energy and flavor. This central business district boasts Michelin-rated restaurants, upscale hotels, premier shopping, and enough arresting architecture to keep your camera busy for hours. You won’t find too many photo galleries of downtown Chicago without a shot of Millennium Park and Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. A stunning skyline coupled with cultural attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago present a Downtown where work and play peacefully coexist.
How to get there
Randolph/Wabash • 8 min walk
State/Lake • 8 min walk
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3,170 within 3 miles
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912 within 6 miles
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See what travelers are saying
Heidi g
Traverse City, Michigan374 contributions
Nicely done way to move along the river!
Hubby and I drove to Chicago from Traverse City, MI (5 1/2 hrs) on a Friday through Sunday for an amazing wedding weekend of our niece. We stayed near the Riverwalk at the Langham, the wedding hotel. We enjoyed our short but full time exploring part of the Riverwalk on the Saturday before the wedding ceremony along with taking an architectural river and Lake MI cruise (90-min/viator.com). We found many cafes and restaurants, markets, and more along both sides of the river. It's not very wide so it can get crowded but folks were mostly considerate. Lots of dogs on leashes. Lots of various boats to watch or ride on: dining boats, personal craft, kayaks, tour boats, etc. Views of so many old and new buildings. Nicely decorated with art and plants/flowers. Fairly clean. Bridges across river have staircases to access the Riverfront. Fountains, lights, benches, walls, etc. to use while there. Highly recommend during the daytime. Was safe. Not sure about dark time/safety but the buildings would be neat to see at night - so take a river cruise for that to avoid any potential unsafe areas of the Riverwalk at night.
Visited August 2023
Traveled as a couple
Written
August 29, 2023
Roch65
Ottawa, Canada144 contributions
Would love to return in the future
We both loved the Riverwalk. If I lived in Chicago, I would definitely come here on a regular basis. The city has done an amazing job of creating a space along the Chicago River, where you can walk and gaze at the beautiful architecture, take a break in one of the many public spaces where you can relax a bit, and stop to have a meal while sitting along the river. We ate at O'Briens. We felt quite safe walking the length of the Riverwalk.
Visited August 2023
Traveled as a couple
Written
August 29, 2023
Aurora R
2 contributions
The River Walk Great Experience.
If you only have time to visit one place in Chicago make sure to see the River walk.Gorgeous path along the river with plenty of options for boat rides, seating and eating all along the river. Great place to enjoy the architecture of the buildings lining the riverbank. The city has done a tremendous job in making this area a very enjoyable experience.
Visited September 2023
Traveled as a couple
Written
September 6, 2023
laura l
2 contributions
Great time in Chicago
My first time in the city and I loved it I had a great time walking around doing the Riverwalk going to the theater walking along Roosevelt and South Michigan going to Grant Park. I cannot wait to move to Chicago next month. Such a beautiful city in so much to do.
Visited September 2023
Traveled solo
Written
September 19, 2023
Bill B
Bel Air, Maryland18,655 contributions
Well landscaped, seasonal flowers, view of boats and river
The Chicago Riverwalk is well landscaped, with seasonal flowers and a view of boats and the Chicago River. The path along the south side of the river is paved with numerous small establishments for eating and drinking. Tour boats depart all along the shore. Helpful maps and rock and wood seats are interspersed. This is a very pleasant afternoon excursion.
Visited October 2023
Traveled solo
Written
October 20, 2023
William S
San Francisco, California685 contributions
Riverwalk in a lovely city
Riverwalk in Chi-town is a must. Amidst bars, eateries, and the action on the water allows tourists an opportunity to soak up the beauty and history of the Windy City. A must-see for all. Lotsa fun. People watching is prevalent from the myriad of cafés, pubs, and restaurants. Just steps, literally, from comfortable hotels. Many benches and park-like settings for the accessibility of patrons. A beautiful sojourn in a beautiful city
Visited October 2023
Traveled as a couple
Written
October 29, 2023
Akbar Akh
23 contributions
Attractions riwerwalk
Walking in riwerwalk and a boat tour in riwerwalk really interesting and had fun moments for us. You can walk and enjoy the green riverside walkway that passes through the south shore and the city center. You can also board cruise ships and learn about the history of the city's most famous attractions
Visited April 2023
Traveled with family
Written
November 9, 2023
krishna
Waukegan, Illinois179 contributions
Must Visit Place In Chicago🔥
The Chicago Riverwalk is indeed a must-visit attraction in the heart of the city. With its serene waterways, lush greenery, and breathtaking architectural views, it appeals to both locals and tourists. Whether you seek a leisurely stroll, a peaceful spot to savor the surroundings, or a variety of activities and dining options, the Riverwalk has something for everyone. It's a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a tranquil and scenic refuge right in the heart of Chicago.
Visited October 2023
Traveled with friends
Written
February 27, 2024
TravelingSoccerLoon
Saint Paul, Minnesota5,532 contributions
Chicago Riverwalk Provides Some Great Views of the City's Architecture
There are several ways to experience the beautiful architecture of downtown Chicago. One of the best ways is to take an architectural boat tour on the river. However, another option is to stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk. Located on the south bank of the Chicago River, there are several different access points. This is a quiet and relaxing walk and offers stunning views of some of Chicago's most iconic buildings. The views of the Wrigley Building and Tribune Building near the Michigan Avenue Bridge are amazing and are especially rewarding at night when everything is illuminated.
Visited April 2023
Traveled with friends
Written
March 10, 2024
bdimz
Wisconsin62 contributions
Great Views
We walked from Michigan Avenue to the Willis Tower and back. There are great views of the buildings and bridges. It is also a great way to stay out of the stronger winds at street level. It also allows you to travel faster as you don’t have to wait to cross the streets.
Visited March 2024
Traveled with family
Written
March 26, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order. Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,124 reviews
Excellent
2,062
Very good
919
Average
125
Poor
15
Terrible
3
Eva T
United Kingdom3,189 contributions
Fabulous place
May 2024 • Couples
It is a long walking pavement along the river Chicago. You can watch passing boats, admire architecture of all skyscrapers - and there is a lot of them old and modern, have refreshment etc. Place to watch a busy city daily life.
Written August 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sue C
22 contributions
Nice place but avoid certain activities there
Jul 2024 • Family
Nice way to spend the day in Chicago, but please don't waste your money and go to the Immersive Experience there. I took my whole family which cost me $182.00. What a waste of money. They project pictures of animals on the walls from the African Savannah. We enjoyed the Ferris Wheel although it's a pretty short ride. Next time, I'd just walk around and skip the touristy things. They're not worth spending money on.
Written August 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neceb805
Tulsa, OK77 contributions
Chicago Riverwalk
Aug 2024 • Family
First time at the Riverwalk with my daughter and granddaughter. It was very relaxing and to watch the boats go by was amazing. The most funniest thing was to watch my granddaughter (4 yrs old) wave and say hi to the passing boats. Some in their personal boats waved back and the people who were canoeing waved back at her. It was great and will visit again b4 we leave on the 4th.
Written August 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ashneale
Mount Pleasant, SC9 contributions
Impressive!
Jul 2024 • Couples
Fabulous, clean, safe walk on the river. Landscaping and design is remarkable. Lots of restaurants and bars. Many people out and about on a beautiful summer day.
Written July 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Travel_away_10
New Delhi, India300 contributions
Enjoy the Chcago Riverwalk
Jul 2024 • Couples
Chicago city has taken a lot of effort over the years to make the Riverwalk a go to and must visit place when in Chcago. Along the riverfront, lot of restaurants, pubs make it very interesting. The Vietnam memorial and the open theater seating are things to see.
Written July 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tracy F
861 contributions
Evening stroll
Jul 2024 • Couples
This Riverwalk is a very peaceful walk. The environment is friendly and the walk provides some beautiful sights along the river. In most locations you can buy alcohol and drink as you walk.
Written July 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
doctorfoxtrot
Taguig City, Philippines13,083 contributions
Lots of places to see along the stroll
Jun 2024 • Family
It is quite a long walk from the starting point ending in the Michigan area where the Trump Hotel stands . Along the way however you see the architecture marvels , several eateries , restaurants and souvenir shops. Also the tendency to people watch can’t be avoided . Must experience in the city .
Written July 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
joaniemaria
Eldridge, IA5,065 contributions
A beautiful place to visit
Jul 2024 • Family
A lovely area in Chicago, and a great place to watch some boats float by. We saw some kayakers. Lots of people to watch, too. If you want to take an Architectural Boat Tour, this is the place to board. We also walked along Lower Wacker for a few blocks in this area. There are places to sit in an amphitheater area along the river. You can also visit the Apple Store and watch the river from that stop along the river! Lots of eateries along the river, too.
Written July 9, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Miguel Gómez
Monterrey, Mexico38 contributions
A must if you are in Chicago.
Jun 2024 • Family
This is a must if you come to Chicago. The Riverwalk is one of the best things you can do, you walk next to the river, seeing all the skyscrapers and the boats passing by. You can eat or take a drink in some of the many restaurants and bars that are in the riverwalk, and take the architecture tour that tells you the story and information about the skyscrapers. Please do the Riverwalk, you will love it.
Written June 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sanju_222323
New Jersey16,482 contributions
The Chicago River runs through the heart of the city
Aug 2023 • Couples
There are few better places to enjoy the outdoors than the Chicago Riverwalk. The Chicago River runs through the heart of the city, parallel to the lakeshore, and is known for its large number of movable bridges. In just two miles, there are 18 bridges, each with the ability to allow large boats to pass. The 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway on the south bank of the Chicago River is the perfect place to take a stroll and observe the city skyline. what I found unique is - it's not a monotonous walk. Did you know that the Riverwalk is made of six separate coves? Each cove has a unique identity and nickname (Part of my R&D The Marina (State to Dearborn): it is one of my favorite attractions in the city, the other two are Navy Pier & Millenium Park - I can keep these 3 to the top -best experience in Chicago. visit the public gardens and art displays, or grab a meal at a popular restaurant or bar overlooking the Chicago River. The Riverwalk is home to many dining options and hosts special events throughout the year, and you can also find several river tours and cruises that depart from the Riverwalk. Public art is on show throughout the pedestrian trail. But Art on the MART is perhaps the Riverwalk’s most famous work. This is the largest video-projection art installation in the world, taking up approximately 2.5 acres of the MART’s river-facing facade bw guys, let me tell you a fact- it was not as beautiful in the past as you are seeing right now- strolling along the picturesque Riverwalk, it’s hard to imagine that it was once a shipping channel — and a smelly one at that. After a lot of effort and dedication, though, it has become one of Chicago’s star attractions The Riverwalk is also the epitome of romance as the sun goes down. Listen to live music, and sip wine on a riverside patio.
The Cove (Dearborn to Clark): Stop for a snack or rent a kayak
The River Theater (Clark to LaSalle)- plenty of trees and greenery.
The Water Plaza (LaSalle to Wells)- great for families. Adults can relax around a fountain,
The Jetty (Wells to Franklin)- See floating wetland gardens
The Boardwalk (Franklin to Lake)- perfect place to see the Chicago River’s three branches.
Written June 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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