Quick Answer: The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile pedestrian path along the south bank of the Chicago River, running from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. Open daily 6 a.m.–11 p.m., this free attraction features restaurants, kayak rentals, public art, the Water Taxi, and stunning skyline views. Most restaurants and vendors operate seasonally from May through October, though City Winery offers heated river domes in fall/winter.
⭐ Quick Picks
- Best for Wine & Views: City Winery — full menu, wine on tap, retractable glass enclosure
- Best for Tropical Vibes: Island Party Hut — tiki bar with frozen drinks, live music
- Best for Families: Sweet Home Gelato — gelato, splash pad, kid-friendly
- Best for Beer Lovers: The Northman Beer & Cider Garden — 16 taps, free live music
- Best Hidden Gem: McCormick Bridgehouse Museum — see how Chicago’s bridges work
- Best Budget Activity: Water Taxi to Chinatown — $6 one-way, scenic 30-minute ride
The Chicago Riverwalk is one of my favorite places in the city to spend a few hours — whether I’m playing tour guide for visiting friends or just looking for a peaceful walk with great views. This 1.25-mile path stretches along the south bank of the Chicago River, right through the heart of downtown, and it’s packed with restaurants, public art, historic bridges, kayak rentals, and more.
If you’ve only walked a block or two of it, you’re missing out! Here’s everything you need to know about the Chicago Riverwalk — plus tips for making the most of your visit.
📍 Where is the Chicago Riverwalk?
The Riverwalk runs from Lake Shore Drive on the east end to Lake Street on the west end, following the south bank of the Chicago River. It’s broken into distinct sections, each with its own vibe — from the relaxing “Cove” to the restaurant-filled “Esplanade.”
📍 Quick Facts
- Length: 1.25 miles
- Hours: Daily, 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Cost: Free to walk
- Best Season: May – October (when restaurants are open)
- Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller accessible (some ramps steep)
Getting There: The Riverwalk is easy to access from many downtown streets — just look for the staircases at Michigan Ave, Wabash, Clark, LaSalle, and Franklin. You can also take the CTA (Red Line to Lake, Blue Line to Washington) or hop off the Water Taxi.
🗺️ Click Here for the Interactive Riverwalk Map
🗺️ The Four Districts of the Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is divided into four sections, each with a different feel and experience:
The Confluence: Where the North, South, and Main Branches of the Chicago River meet. This is the best spot for photos and sweeping river views. You’ll also find the best vantage points for Art on theMART projections here.
The Arcade: This stretch runs under a series of historic bridges with plenty of shade, small cafes, and art displays. Perfect for escaping the summer sun.
The Civic Section: Includes historic features like the McCormick Bridgehouse Museum and Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza. This is the more contemplative, quiet portion of the walk.
The Esplanade: The most active area, packed with restaurants, bars, and seating. This is where most visitors hang out — and where you’ll find City Winery, Island Party Hut, and the kayak rentals.
✨ 12 Best Things to Do on the Chicago Riverwalk
1. Grab Wine & Dinner at City Winery
📍 11 W Riverwalk South
This is one of my go-to spots when I want to kick back with a glass of rosé and people-watch. City Winery offers locally-made wine on tap, a full bar with craft beers, and a seasonal food menu that goes way beyond bar snacks — think lamb meatballs, burrata, and surf & turf.
What makes City Winery special is their retractable glass enclosure, so you can enjoy those river views even when the weather isn’t cooperating. They also have a dog-friendly outdoor patio and offer dockside service for boaters.
💡 Pro Tip: City Winery brings back their famous heated River Domes from October through November — the only way to experience the Riverwalk in fall! Reservations are $85/person and include a 2.5-hour private dome experience. Book early — they sell out fast.
2. Rent a Kayak or Take an Architecture Tour
📍 Urban Kayaks – 435 E Chicago Riverwalk
Want a new perspective on the city? Urban Kayaks offers kayak rentals starting at about $30/hour for a single kayak ($65 for tandem), plus guided tours including their popular Historic Chicago Tour ($65-70) and sunset paddles. Their Happy Hour Paddle includes a complimentary drink at TacoRio next door.
For a more traditional experience, the Chicago Architecture Center offers world-famous boat tours departing right from the Riverwalk at 112 E Wacker Dr.
💡 Pro Tip: The Riverwalk kayak location is best for experienced paddlers — beginners are required to pair with someone experienced or take a lesson first. If you’re new to kayaking, consider Urban Kayaks’ lakefront location at Monroe Harbor where conditions are calmer.
3. Feel the Tropical Vibes at Island Party Hut
📍 355 E Riverwalk South
This is where you go when you want to feel like you’re on vacation without leaving the city. Island Party Hut brings the tropical energy — think tiki huts, frozen drinks, steel drum music, and a laid-back Caribbean atmosphere right in the middle of downtown.
Try their jerk chicken tacos or coconut shrimp with a Mai Tai and soak up the live music at their Oasis Bar. It’s strictly seasonal (spring through early fall) and all seating is outdoors.
4. Discover Public Art & Art on theMART
📍 Spread throughout the Riverwalk
From large-scale sculptures to murals, there’s art around every bend on the Riverwalk. But the showstopper is Art on theMART — the largest permanent digital art projection in the world.
Every Thursday through Sunday (seasonally, April–October), stunning contemporary art is projected across the 2.5-acre façade of the Merchandise Mart after sunset. The best viewing spot is from the Riverwalk Jetty between Wells and Franklin Streets. Shows typically run at 7:30 or 9 p.m. depending on the season — check their website for current schedules.
5. Grab a Bite at Riverwalk Restaurants
The Riverwalk has become a foodie destination with options for every mood:
O’Brien’s Riverwalk Café (📍 45 E Riverwalk South) — A Chicago staple with relaxed vibes, live jazz on Thursdays, and umbrella seating. Great for a casual burger or afternoon cocktail.
Tiny Tapp & Café (📍 55 W Riverwalk South) — Popular spot with flatbreads, sandwiches, craft cocktails, and morning coffee service. Perfect for breakfast through happy hour.
The Northman Beer & Cider Garden (📍 233 E Riverwalk South) — European beer garden vibes with 16 taps of craft beer and cider (including their own Michigan apple cider), plus döner sausages, pretzels, and hummus. Free live music from the Pergola Stage Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Sweet Home Gelato (📍 151-155 W Riverwalk South) — Hand-crafted Italian gelato in waffle cones, boozy floats, and vegan options. Right next to the splash pad, so it’s perfect for families.
TacoRio Urban Cantina (📍 Next to Urban Kayaks) — Casual tacos and margaritas, connected to the kayak rental spot.
💡 Pro Tip: Most Riverwalk restaurants are seasonal (May through October) and weather-dependent. City Winery is the exception with their heated domes in fall. Always check ahead before planning your visit!
6. Visit the McCormick Bridgehouse Museum
📍 Michigan Ave Bridge (southwest corner)
This hidden gem lets you step inside a historic bridge tower and see how Chicago’s famous movable bridges actually work. Beginning at river level and spiraling five stories up, you’ll see the massive gears that move the DuSable Bridge and get 360-degree views from the top.
The museum is seasonal (May–October), open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission is “pay what you can” (suggested $8 adults, $6 seniors/students/kids 6-12). For $15, you can book a special bridge lift viewing and watch the bridge actually rise — an only-in-Chicago experience.
7. Relax at the River Theater
📍 Between Clark and LaSalle Streets
This stepped-wood seating area feels like a small amphitheater built right into the riverbank — great for relaxing, picnicking, or just watching boats drift by. It’s one of the most peaceful spots on the Riverwalk and perfect for catching a sunset.
8. Explore the Floating Gardens
📍 Near the Marina and Cove sections
These floating wetland islands are part of the city’s ongoing effort to clean and green the Chicago River. They attract birds, butterflies, and even turtles — a surprising bit of nature in the middle of downtown. Part of a larger project called the Wild Mile.
9. Pause at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza
📍 Just east of State Street
A quiet, beautiful memorial with wide granite steps and peaceful river views. It’s a great spot to rest and reflect away from the busier restaurant sections.
10. Take the Water Taxi
The Chicago Water Taxi is one of the best-kept secrets for getting around the city — and it’s incredibly affordable. For just $6 one-way (or $10 for an all-day pass), you can ride the scenic 30-minute route between Michigan Avenue and Chinatown, with stops at Ogilvie/Union Station along the way.
Senior citizens get half-price tickets, and kids 3 and under plus active military ride free. The Water Taxi runs daily from late May through September, with weekend service in May (weather permitting). Bikes are welcome on board!
💡 Pro Tip: Take the Water Taxi to Chinatown’s Ping Tom Memorial Park for dim sum and exploring — it’s a fantastic budget-friendly day trip. The views from the river are stunning and you skip all the traffic.
11. Find the Hidden Mosaic Bench
📍 Near Franklin Street Bridge
A tucked-away, colorful bench that’s easy to miss — and perfect for an Instagram-worthy photo. Keep your eyes open as you walk the western portion of the Riverwalk.
12. Explore Historic Riverwalk Landmarks
The Riverwalk passes by some of Chicago’s most significant architectural and historical landmarks:
The Wabash Avenue Bridge: Built in 1930 with beautiful original Art Deco features and ornamental metalwork.
Merchandise Mart: Once the largest building in the world by floor area. Today it hosts Art on theMART projections on its massive river-facing façade.
Reid Murdoch Center: A gorgeous 1914 former food supply building with an iconic clock tower — now office space but still stunning from the Riverwalk.
Marina City: The famous “corn cob” towers are best photographed from the Riverwalk near City Winery.
🎭 Events & Special Experiences
The Riverwalk hosts special events throughout the year that make it worth multiple visits:
St. Patrick’s Day River Dyeing: Every March, the Chicago River is dyed bright green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day — one of the city’s most iconic traditions. The best views are from the Riverwalk near Michigan Avenue. Arrive early for a good spot!
Art on theMART: Free digital art projections Thursday–Sunday evenings from April through October. The 30-minute shows feature work from renowned contemporary artists.
New Year’s Eve: Chicago’s inaugural “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” celebration took place along the Riverwalk in 2025, with fireworks launched from bridges and Art on theMART projections. This is expected to become an annual tradition.
Architecture Boat Tours: Chicago boat tours departing from the Riverwalk offer fascinating insights into the city’s world-famous skyline.
Live Music: The Northman hosts free live music from the Pergola Stage daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Island Party Hut and O’Brien’s also feature regular live performances.
Accessibility: The Chicago Riverwalk is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
🧭 Tips for Visiting the Chicago Riverwalk
Hours: The path is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for the full experience with open restaurants and activities. Weekday mornings are quieter; weekends get busy, especially during warm weather.
What to bring: Sunscreen and water — shade is limited on most sections. Comfortable walking shoes if you plan to explore the full 1.25 miles.
Seasonal note: Most Riverwalk restaurants and vendors operate May through October. City Winery’s heated domes extend into November.
Getting there: Public transit is easiest — the CTA Red Line to Lake or Blue Line to Washington will get you close. Street parking downtown is expensive and limited.
For families: The splash pad near Sweet Home Gelato is a hit with kids on hot days. The River Theater’s steps are great for picnicking.
📱 Before you go: Check the City of Chicago’s official Riverwalk page for the latest info on seasonal openings, events, and hours.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chicago Riverwalk free?
Yes! The Chicago Riverwalk is completely free to walk and explore. You’ll only pay if you choose to dine at restaurants, rent kayaks, visit the Bridgehouse Museum, or take boat tours.
When is the best time to visit the Chicago Riverwalk?
Late May through September is ideal, when all restaurants, kayak rentals, and the Water Taxi are operating. Weekday mornings are quieter; summer weekends can get crowded. For Art on theMART projections, visit Thursday–Sunday evenings after dark.
Are Chicago Riverwalk restaurants open year-round?
No, most Riverwalk restaurants are seasonal and operate from early May through October. City Winery is the exception — they offer heated River Domes from October through November, providing the only way to dine on the Riverwalk in fall.
Can you kayak on the Chicago River?
Yes! Urban Kayaks offers rentals starting around $30/hour and guided tours from their Riverwalk location (May–October). Kayak Chicago and Wateriders are other popular options. The river is safe for kayaking when following safety guidelines and staying alert for commercial boat traffic.
What is Art on theMART?
Art on theMART is the largest permanent digital art projection in the world, displayed across the 2.5-acre façade of the Merchandise Mart. Free shows run Thursday–Sunday evenings from April through October, with programming that changes seasonally. Best viewed from the Riverwalk between Wells and Franklin Streets.
How do I get to the Chicago Riverwalk?
The easiest way is via CTA — take the Red Line to Lake or the Blue Line to Washington, then walk to the river. You can also access the Riverwalk via staircases at Michigan Ave, Wabash, Clark, LaSalle, and Franklin. The Water Taxi stops directly on the Riverwalk at Michigan Avenue.
Is the Chicago Riverwalk dog-friendly?
Yes! Dogs are welcome on the Riverwalk path, and several restaurants including City Winery and The Northman have dog-friendly outdoor patios. Just keep your pup leashed and bring water on hot days.
How long is the Chicago Riverwalk?
The Chicago Riverwalk is 1.25 miles long, stretching from Lake Shore Drive on the east to Lake Street on the west. A leisurely walk takes about 30-45 minutes, or longer if you stop at restaurants and attractions along the way.
🌆 Final Thoughts
The Chicago Riverwalk is always changing — that’s part of what makes it such a fun spot to explore. Whether you’re planning a full day of kayaking, dining, and art-hunting, or just want to wander for an hour with a gelato cone, there’s something here for everyone.
What’s your favorite Riverwalk discovery? Let me know in the comments!
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