The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile waterfront path in downtown Chicago, known for its restaurants, boat tours, and skyline views along the Chicago River. It is one of the most popular ways to experience the city at street level. After exploring the Riverwalk, many visitors head just a few blocks west to Skydeck Chicago, the highest observation deck in Chicago, to see the same river and skyline from 1,353 feet above on The Ledge.
What is the Chicago Riverwalk?
The Chicago Riverwalk is a pedestrian-only promenade along the south bank of the Chicago River. It stretches from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street and offers a mix of dining, recreation, public art, and access to the water, all in the heart of downtown Chicago.
How Long is the Chicago Riverwalk?
The Chicago Riverwalk is approximately 1.25 miles long.
It runs from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street and typically takes 20 to 30 minutes to walk end to end. Most visitors spend 1 to 3 hours exploring stops along the way, depending on dining, activities, and tours.
Things to Do on the Chicago Riverwalk
The Riverwalk offers a wide range of activities, from casual walks to guided experiences on the water.
- Take an architecture boat tour: Cruises from companies like Shoreline Sightseeing and Wendella Boats highlight Chicago’s iconic buildings from the river.
- Go kayaking on the Chicago River: Rentals from Urban Kayaks provide a unique, water-level perspective of the city.
- See Art on the MART: A large-scale digital art projection displayed on the Merchandise Mart at night.
- Walk and explore: Enjoy bridges, skyline views, and riverfront seating areas throughout the route.
- Attend seasonal events: Live music, pop-ups, and summer programming activate the Riverwalk throughout the year.
- Visit Skydeck Chicago nearby: Continue your experience at Skydeck Chicago in Willis Tower to see the Chicago River from above and step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending 4.3 feet outside the building.
Chicago Riverwalk Attractions
The Marina
The Marina is a central hub for boat tours, rentals, and river-based activities.
The Cove
The Cove is known for kayaking and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere along the water.
The Jetty
The Jetty offers open seating, views of passing boats, and a place to unwind.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza
This section provides a reflective space honoring those who served, set along the riverfront.
From these ground-level viewpoints, visitors can also see Willis Tower rising above the skyline, home to Skydeck Chicago, where the full scale of the city and river comes into view.
Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants and Bars
The Riverwalk is one of Chicago’s top waterfront dining destinations, with options ranging from casual bites to full-service restaurants.
- City Winery: Wine, small plates, and live music along the river.
- Beat Kitchen on the River: Casual dining with tacos and street food.
- Island Party Hut: Tropical drinks and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Sweet treats: Ice cream, gelato, and quick desserts throughout the Riverwalk.
Many restaurants operate seasonally, making late spring through early fall the best time to visit for the full experience.
Do You Need Tickets for the Chicago Riverwalk?
No, the Chicago Riverwalk is free and open to the public.
While access to the Riverwalk itself is free, certain experiences such as boat tours, kayaking, and nearby attractions require tickets. For a ticketed experience with unmatched views, visitors often pair their visit with a trip to Skydeck Chicago, where you can view the Chicago River from 103 floors up.
Where is the Chicago Riverwalk?
The Chicago Riverwalk runs along the south bank of the Chicago River in downtown Chicago, from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. It is easily accessible via nearby CTA stations including State/Lake, Clark/Lake, and LaSalle.
Chicago Riverwalk vs. Chicago Riverfront: What’s the Difference?
The Chicago Riverwalk refers specifically to the pedestrian path along the river, while the Chicago riverfront includes broader waterfront areas throughout the city. The Riverwalk is the most developed and visitor-friendly section, offering direct access to dining, activities, and views.
Insider Tips for Visiting the Chicago Riverwalk
- Visit in the evening: Sunset offers the best lighting for photos and a cooler atmosphere in summer.
- Start east, end west: Walk from Lake Shore Drive toward downtown for the best skyline progression.
- Plan for 2–3 hours: Allow time for dining, activities, and stops along the way.
- Pair with Skydeck for a full experience: Start at the river and finish at Skydeck Chicago for a transition from street-level exploration to skyline views.
Pair the Chicago Riverwalk With Skydeck Chicago
A visit to the Chicago Riverwalk and Skydeck Chicago creates a complete downtown experience. The Riverwalk offers a ground-level view of the city, while Skydeck provides a vertical perspective from 1,353 feet above.
Located about a 10 to 15-minute walk west in Willis Tower, Skydeck is the highest observation deck in Chicago. Visitors can step onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending outside the building, and see the Chicago River, downtown skyline, and Lake Michigan from above.
Plan Your Visit to the Chicago Riverwalk
- Hours: Typically open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall
- Time needed: 1 to 3 hours
Many visitors begin their day along the Chicago Riverwalk and end it at Skydeck Chicago, experiencing the city from both the river and the skyline in a single visit.
FAQs About the Chicago Riverwalk
How long is the Chicago Riverwalk?
The Chicago Riverwalk is approximately 1.25 miles long and runs through downtown Chicago.
Is the Chicago Riverwalk free?
Yes, the Riverwalk is free and open to the public, though some activities and attractions require tickets.
What can you do on the Chicago Riverwalk?
You can walk, dine, take boat tours, kayak, and enjoy public art and seasonal events.
Are there restaurants on the Chicago Riverwalk?
Yes, the Riverwalk features a variety of restaurants, bars, and casual dining options along the waterfront.
What can you do near the Chicago Riverwalk?
Nearby attractions include Skydeck Chicago, where visitors can experience panoramic views of the city from Willis Tower and step onto The Ledge.