What To Do on the Chicago Riverwalk: 14 Classic Experiences

The award-winning Chicago Riverwalk is a lively oasis away from the traffic, running along Chicago’s riverfront for 1.25 miles. It’s one of the city’s most popular attractions, stretching along the south bank of the Chicago River and inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of a world-class city. 

As you explore the riverwalk, you can’t help being awestruck by the stunning architecture and views of Chicago’s iconic skyline. Marvel at skyscrapers that line the river, such as the renowned Marina Towers and Mies van der Rohe’s IBM building. Wave at the tour boats, water taxis, and recreational boaters enjoying a day on the water.  

Along the way, you’ll discover an array of riverside cafes and bars, live entertainment and places to just plop down and enjoy it all.

Let’s dive in!

A quick history of the Chicago Riverwalk

Since the 1600s, the Chicago River and Lake Michigan served as significant trade routes, and by the time the city was incorporated in 1837, the river had gained recognition as a site for industrial growth. 

After the famous reversal of the river’s flow of the Main Branch and South Branch for improved sanitation, architect and urban planner Daniel Burnham unveiled an innovative concept of riverside promenades and a public waterfront space for the city. 

And that’s how it started. The riverwalk concept was a part of Burnham’s 1909 Plan of Chicago, but the initial section, known as the Riverwalk Esplanade, stretching from Lake Shore Drive to Michigan Avenue, wasn’t officially designated a city park until 1972.

It wasn’t until 2001 that the idea finally gained serious traction and the city embarked on a remarkable transformation project. 

Today, the Chicago Riverwalk is the city’s newest recreational park, offering residents and visitors easy access to its scenery and activities at every curve. 

Wondering what to do on the Chicago Riverwalk? Here are 14 classic experiences everyone should try.

Explore the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk packs a lot in for a path that’s just a little over a mile. There are several key sections that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Admire murals on the Riverwalk Gateway

First, there’s the Riverwalk Gateway, at DuSable Lake Shore Drive and Wacker Drive. This is a covered passageway extending beneath the road on the southern bank of the Chicago River where it meets Lake Michigan. It unites the Riverwalk with the picturesque lakefront bicycle path. 

Here, you can browse the murals that celebrate the importance of the river from its early days to its role in historic triumphs and growth of the city. 

2. Relax at Marina Plaza

Marina Plaza, another section of the Chicago Riverwalk, is a smart place to sit a spell on benches and steps, view the impressive Marina Towers, and watch tour boats, barges and water taxis glide by. There are also cafes and boat access here.

3. Reflect at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Created by Vietnam veteran Gary Tillery, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (one of the largest outside of Washington D.C.) pays tribute to Americans who served in the Vietnam War.

The plaza has a shallow pool and fountains, plaques with veterans’ names from all branches of the armed forces, and some grassy places to sit and reflect for a moment.

4. Get your steps in at the River Theater

The River Theater is an inviting space with a sculptural staircase that connects Upper Wacker Drive to the Riverwalk. This picturesque area offers comfortable seating and shade in the summer. 

You’ll often find people exercising on the stairs while others socialize in groups or just relax.

5. Take a tour of the Chicago Riverwalk

Get the inside track on the history of the Riverwalk and the iconic architecture that surrounds it with our Chicago Riverwalk Architecture Walking Tour. It covers about a mile and the pace is leisurely so you’ll have enough energy to circle back for a bite and sip after the tour (your guide has recommendations on where to eat — just ask!). 

6. Learn about the riverfront ecosystem at the Jetty

The Jetty, named for the seven piers or jetties that jut into the river, is a cove containing floating gardens and seating. Spy kayakers trying to maneuver their water craft around the wake of the big boats, watch for waterfowl native to the area, and see what’s growing in the wetland gardens.

Photo tip: The green floating gardens are fun for photographers who can get up-close to the plants from the walkway.

More things to do on the Chicago Riverwalk

Beyond just browsing the various sections of the riverwalk, the pedestrian park along the waterfront is strewn with activities. There are places to take a break and just people- watch. But when you’re ready to get up again, there are plenty of things to see and do for an entire morning or afternoon and into the evening.

7. See the world’s largest digital art platform

Located between Wells and Franklin Streets, The Jetty is the spot to catch ART on THE MART, displaying cutting-edge video across the 2.5-acre façade of the Merchandise Mart every night from April to December. The free show typically starts at sundown.

8. Go fishing

During the day at the Jetty, you may see families taking part in a free Chicago Park District fishing program as well as a team of educators engaging visitors in hands-on water-based activities. These programs happen most often in summer and early fall.

9. Go shopping and museum-hopping

To learn even more about the city’s architecture after your walking tour, head upstairs from the riverwalk at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive to visit the Chicago Architecture Center.

You may also want to visit the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum at the Michigan Avenue Bridge. This five-story museum tells the history and engineering feats of the river and those cool moveable bridges you’re sure to take pictures of while in town. 

Local tip: Climb to the top of the bridgehouse for 360-degree views of the river and skyline. There is an entry fee.

There’s also great shopping at the Chicago Riverwalk. Community Marketplace is where you can pick up Chicago-themed merch, have a bite, and purchase unique gifts from local vendors.

10. Cruise down the river

There are many opportunities to get out on the water from the Chicago Riverwalk. You might wriggle into a kayak for a fish-eye view of the urban canyon ringed with gleaming buildings. Or rent an eco-friendly craft from Chicago Electric Boat Company to explore the city’s renowned architecture from the river. Even more luxurious, consider a cruise on the Odyssey Chicago River Experience, a glass-enclosed vessel serving cheffy meals, drinks and music alongside 360-degree views.

Or how about driving your own refurbished 1950s or 1960s style Retro Boat for up to four passengers? If you’d rather leave the driving up to an experienced captain, rent a bar-top Party Barge, a multi-level 1964 Constellation Yacht, or a cruiser yacht with an open cockpit layout and sunbathing deck for up to 12 passengers.

Where to eat and drink on and near the Chicago Riverwalk

Of course, after all that activity, you’ve worked up on appetite. Luckily, the riverwalk has plenty of places to eat nearby.

11. Make dinner a party

Chicago will never be mistaken for a Pacific island, but you can go with a Midwestern version at the Island Party Hut Tiki Bar & Grill. Pulsating with tropical rhythms and offering outdoor games, the venue stocks Mai Tais and bar bites like burgers and brats. 

Or float away from land on the Island Party Boat that departs from the Riverwalk and meanders along the river for 75 minutes with tropical cocktails in tow by daylight and after dark. 

12. Kick back on the patio

Get yourself set up on the patio at Beat Kitchen on the Riverwalk. They have great chips and guac, all kinds of tacos, sandwiches, salads and pizza, and there’s a full-service bar. 

13. Enjoy great drinks

Beer fans can try some local craft brews at Tiny Tapp & Cafe,  Northman Beer & Cider Garden (live entertainment at both), and Chicago Brewhouse, which aims to bring Chicago neighborhood street food to the Riverwalk. 

Wine sippers should head to City Winery Riverwalk Wine Garden where you can get a glass at the walk-up bar and find a comfy seat nearby or get a table on the patio (first-come, first served). Nibble watermelon salad, crudites, Mediterranean dips and spreads, hearty entrees, and plenty of City Winery’s own vintages plus beer, cocktails, and sunset views. Visit in fall when there are fewer crowds and reserve a River Dome, a see-through igloo of sorts, to keep you toasty while you dine riverside.

14. Dine with waterfront views

There’s waterfront seating at O’Brien’s Riverwalk Café for salads, sandwiches, burgers, kid-friendly grub, and a full bar. 

For robust coffee, pastries and extraordinary gelato, from Cookie Dough Fudge to Peach Cobbler, map your riverside walk to Sweet Home Gelato. 

Those are just the dining and drinking spots right on the Chicago Riverwalk. You can pack your own snacks and sandwiches to picnic in designated areas or grassy lawns by the riverwalk at several entrance and exit points. A picnic is the perfect way to grab a memorable bite.

Still hungry? There’s plenty more. On the north side of the river, Pizzeria Portofino bakes incredible hand-stretched pies and char-grills seafood. Ask for a seat on the patio. RPM Seafood is directly above offering an outdoor terrace and extravagant seafood towers. 

River Roast is fun for a gaggle of friends and family ordering sharable roasts of chicken, seafood, pork and roast beef. 

For those who want to experience a bit of the city’s serious steakhouse scene, go for ​Smith and Wollensky or Chicago Cut Steakhouse, a favorite of local and visiting pro athletes. They’re all prime spots for river views, so make a reservation. 

How to visit the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is free and hours are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

If crowds aren’t your thing, visit weekdays because weekends are jammed with strollers, joggers, boaters stopping for drinks, and just a lot of humanity. There are a few public bathrooms along the riverwalk, and if you’re dining at a riverside eatery, you can use the facilities. Seating at cafes is first-come, first-served. Restaurants are generally open from May to October, weather dependent, but City Winery offers reservable domes through November. 

How to get to the Chicago Riverwalk

Reserve parking online at Millennium Garages, or browse SpotHero for a deal (but first ask yourself if you really need to drive).

From the CTA subway Blue Line, exit at Clark and Lake Streets and walk two blocks north. Or take the CTA Red Line, exit at State and Lake Streets and saunter two blocks north. 

The other subway lines will also get you within walking distance, just check the CTA Quick Trip Planner. The riverwalk is an easy hike from either Union Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center. You can even hop on a Chicago Water Taxi a few steps from Ogilvie and ride directly to the riverwalk. 

The Chicago Riverwalk: A must-visit

If you’re coming to the birthplace of modern architecture, visiting the riverwalk is an entertaining journey through the stunning skyline. Whether you decide to get out on the water, dine by the river, or embark on a Chicago Riverwalk walking tour that guides you through its six distinct districts, you can’t fail to notice the incomparable architecture that make Chicago such an exceptional American city. 

Visiting the riverwalk is truly a must for any visit to Chicago!

Feature photo credit: Harold Rail