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Explore the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

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Discover the stories of Chicago River's past and present at the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, a unique cultural landmark in the heart of the city.

Nestled along the iconic Chicago Riverwalk, the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum offers visitors a deep dive into the history and engineering marvels of the historic Chicago River. This unique museum, housed within the historic bridgehouse, showcases the vital role the river has played in the city's development while providing breathtaking views of the urban landscape.

A brief summary to McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for current hours and any special events before your visit, as it may be temporarily closed.
  • Consider visiting during the weekday to avoid larger crowds and have a more intimate experience.
  • Take a guided tour for in-depth insights into the exhibits and the history of the Chicago River.
  • Don't forget your camera! The views from the observation deck are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
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Getting There

  • Public Bus

    From Arlington Heights, walk to the nearest bus stop serving the Pace Bus service, which is located on Arlington Heights Road. Take the Pace Bus Route 696 towards Chicago, which should take approximately 30-40 minutes. Get off at the 'S Washington Blvd & W Adams St' stop. From there, walk southeast for about 10 minutes along W Adams St until you reach S State St. Turn right onto S State St and continue south until you reach W Wacker Dr. Turn left onto W Wacker Dr and walk for a couple of blocks until you reach the Chicago Riverwalk. The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum is located at 99 Chicago Riverwalk.

  • Train

    Head to the Arlington Heights Metra station, which is located at 45 W Northwest Hwy. Board the Metra Union Pacific Northwest line towards Chicago. The train ride takes approximately 40 minutes. Disembark at Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago. From there, exit the station and walk east on W Madison St towards N Wacker Dr. Turn left onto N Wacker Dr and continue walking until you reach the Chicago Riverwalk. The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum is at 99 Chicago Riverwalk.

  • Bicycle

    If you prefer to cycle, rent a bike from a local bike-sharing service. Start at Arlington Heights and follow the bike paths leading south towards Chicago. You can use the bike paths along Arlington Heights Rd and connect to the Des Plaines River Trail, which leads you into Chicago. Once you are near the downtown area, navigate towards the Chicago Riverwalk. The museum is located at 99 Chicago Riverwalk, and bike parking is available nearby.

  • Walking

    While it may be a long walk, you can choose to walk directly from Arlington Heights to Chicago, which is approximately 25 miles. Start by heading south along Arlington Heights Rd and continue until you reach the city limits. Then, follow major streets like N Ashland Ave and W Madison St into downtown Chicago. Once you reach the Chicago Riverwalk, you will find the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum at 99 Chicago Riverwalk.

Discover more about McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to understand the historical and cultural significance of the Chicago River. Situated on the scenic Riverwalk, this museum is housed in the heart of one of the city's iconic drawbridges, offering a unique perspective on the confluence of architecture, engineering, and urban planning. Visitors can explore engaging exhibits that detail the river's transformation from a natural resource to a bustling waterway that has shaped Chicago's history. As you wander through the museum, you'll discover fascinating artifacts, interactive displays, and informative panels that illustrate the river’s vital role in the city’s growth and its ongoing importance today. The museum also features stunning views of the river and the surrounding skyline from its observation deck, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With a dedicated team of knowledgeable staff, the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum provides guided tours that delve deeper into the engineering marvels of the area, making history come alive in a way that is both informative and inspiring. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience in Chicago, this museum is sure to captivate your imagination and provide a deeper appreciation for the city’s waterways.

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