Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile pedestrian path along the main branch of the Chicago River, lined with cafes, wine bars, and boat-tour docks. It is the best place to appreciate the city's famous architecture from water level. It gets packed on warm evenings, and the bars are on the expensive side.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit the Riverwalk?

Late afternoon into sunset is magic, when the light hits the buildings and the patios fill up. Summer weekends are lively but crowded; a weekday evening is more relaxed. Much of the food and drink scene is seasonal, roughly May through October.

How long is the Chicago Riverwalk?

It runs about 1.25 miles along the south bank of the main branch of the Chicago River, from Lake Michigan west to Lake Street. A relaxed stroll end to end takes 30-45 minutes, longer if you stop for a drink or people-watch.

Is the Riverwalk open in winter?

The path itself stays open year-round from 6am to 11pm, but most restaurants, bars, and kayak rentals shut down for the season. In winter it becomes a quiet, brisk walk rather than a hangout. Come in the warm months for the full experience.

What is there to do on the Riverwalk?

You can dine and drink at riverside bars and cafes, rent kayaks, catch an architecture or water-taxi boat tour, see public art and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and simply watch boats and bridges. It is one of the best free things to do downtown.

Can you kayak on the Chicago River?

Yes. Outfitters rent kayaks right off the Riverwalk in the warm months, and paddling among the skyscrapers is a genuinely memorable perspective. Book ahead on summer weekends, and expect calmer water in the morning before boat traffic picks up.

Is the Riverwalk wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Riverwalk is largely flat and accessible, with ramps and elevators connecting to street level at several bridge crossings. Some cobblestone and tighter sections exist, but it is one of the more accessible attractions downtown.

Is the Chicago Riverwalk free?

Yes, walking the Riverwalk is completely free and open to everyone from 6am to 11pm. You only pay if you choose to dine at a restaurant, rent a kayak, take a boat tour, or visit the Bridgehouse Museum along the way.

Where does the architecture boat tour leave from?

Several tour operators dock along the Riverwalk near Michigan Avenue and Wabash. The Chicago Architecture Center's flagship cruise is the local favorite. Buy tickets in advance in summer, and arrive 15 minutes early to board.

Nearby in Ask Chicago

• Chicago Architecture CenterAttraction0.29 km · 4 min walk
• The Purple PigRestaurant0.36 km · 5 min walk
• Intelligentsia Coffee Millennium ParkCafé0.38 km · 5 min walk
• Lou Malnati's PizzeriaRestaurant0.63 km · 8 min walk
• Portillo's Hot DogsRestaurant0.66 km · 8 min walk