Chicago Riverwalk Tours

Chicago Riverwalk showing a bridge and a city as well as a small group of people
Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.

Get a sense of the culture and character of the Windy City by wandering along the Chicago Riverwalk. This scenic stretch of the city follows the banks of the Chicago River from near the edge of Lake Michigan through Downtown to where the river splits. As you follow the walkway, pass impressive bridges, fascinating museums and trendy dining spots. 

Chicago’s river is most famous for the time, in the late 19th century, when city planners reversed its currents to improve sanitation. Visit today to see the riverfront transformed from a polluted industrial area to a popular leisure destination. A team of engineers and architects began work on designing the area to make the most of the revitalized atmosphere by the waterfront. It was formally named the Riverwalk in 2012.

Learn more about the history of the area in the McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum, which pays particular attention to the 18 movable bridges that cross the waterway. Head to the top of the bridgehouse for views of the river, these historic bridges and the dramatic skyline of the city. 

Take a boat tour that leaves from the waterfront and drifts through the center of the city or simply stroll along the Riverwalk. Pass sights such as the neo-Gothic headquarters of the Chicago Tribune and the iconic Wrigley Building. Modern skyscrapers of glimmering glass and steel stand alongside these historic landmarks.

Spend your evening dining at one of the restaurants along the Riverwalk. Sampling the city’s famous deep-dish pizzas is an obvious choice, but you can also try seafood, steaks and Italian food, among other options. 

Listen for live music as you explore the Chicago Riverwalk. In summer, the waterfront hosts an array of musicians playing for passers-by. 

Visit the Chicago Riverwalk in the morning for a quiet and relaxing way of seeing the city. Come back in the evening to see the area lit up beautifully, as the bars and restaurants come to life with patrons enjoying a night out. The Riverwalk is a public space, open throughout the year and free to explore.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Chicago Riverwalk

Reviews of Chicago Riverwalk

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
959
" "5 - Excellent 62.47557003257329%
4 - Good
528
" "4 - Good 34.39739413680782%
3 - Okay
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" "3 - Okay 2.736156351791531%
2 - Disappointing
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" "2 - Disappointing 0.19543973941368079%
1 - Terrible
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" "1 - Terrible 0.19543973941368079%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Mar 15, 2020

Very heavy automotive traffic. Be aware of your surroundings while crossing intersections

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Sep 15, 2019

Be sure to do the combo river/lake tour. The lock system from the river to the lake was a very unique experience.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler
Mar 28, 2019

River was dyed green for St. Patricks day and the city partied hard. Unfortunately I was too big of a baby to brave the cold and crowds.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Feb 15, 2019

It is closed down for beautification but will be that much nicer when complete

4/5 - Good

Constance
Feb 12, 2019

It was too cold to walk on the Chicago Riverwalk but it looks like it would be nice in warmer weather.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Jan 6, 2019

People's dogs are kind of irritating, pooping, people are just rude sometimes not picking up poop, but most people do pick it up. I also dont like the dogs jumping near you and owner having to hold them back. Lot of pee like stink in that area from I assume the river. Nice and free , otherwise.

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.