Discovering the Vibrant Chicago River Walk
Explore the scenic Chicago River Walk, an urban oasis offering stunning views, dining, and cultural experiences in the heart of the Windy City.
The Chicago River Walk is a scenic haven in the heart of the city, offering tourists a picturesque stroll along the water's edge. This vibrant area is perfect for leisurely walks, dining, and enjoying stunning views of Chicago's iconic architecture. The walk features numerous seating areas, art installations, and seasonal events, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Windy City.
A brief summary to Chicago River Walk at State St
- Wacker &, N State St, Chicago, Chicago Loop, IL, 60601, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Check the calendar for any special events or festivals happening along the River Walk.
- Bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy near the water.
- Take advantage of the guided boat tours that depart from the River Walk for a unique perspective.
- Explore the different sections of the River Walk, each offering distinct experiences and views.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are near the iconic Millennium Park, head east toward Michigan Ave. Walk north on Michigan Ave for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Wacker Dr. Turn left onto Wacker Dr and continue walking until you reach the intersection with State St. The Chicago River Walk will be on your right at Wacker and State St.
-
Public Transit - Bus
Locate the nearest bus stop and take the #151 bus heading north. Ride for about 5 stops and get off at the State & Wacker stop. After disembarking, walk east towards the river, and you will find the Chicago River Walk located at the intersection of Wacker and State St.
-
Public Transit - Train
Get to the nearest 'L' train station and take the Brown, Purple, or Green Line towards downtown. Get off at the Washington/Wells station. From there, exit the station and head east on Washington St until you reach State St. Turn right on State St and walk south until you reach Wacker Dr, where the Chicago River Walk is located.
-
Biking
If you have access to a Divvy bike, locate a nearby bike station. Rent a bike and head towards the Chicago River. Ride west on Wacker Dr. Continue until you reach the intersection with State St. You can park your bike at any nearby bike rack and enjoy the Chicago River Walk.
Discover more about Chicago River Walk at State St
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Heald Square Monument
0.1 km
Explore the Heald Square Monument, a captivating historical landmark in Chicago, blending art, history, and urban tranquility.
Page Brothers Building
0.2 km
Explore the Page Brothers Building: A Stunning Historical Landmark in Chicago's Loop, Showcasing Architectural Elegance and Rich Heritage.
N State St
0.2 km
Discover the pulse of Chicago on N State St, where shopping, dining, and culture come together in a vibrant urban landscape.
Mather Tower
0.3 km
Discover Mather Tower, an architectural gem in Chicago's Loop, showcasing stunning terra cotta design and rich historical significance.
Oliver Building (Chicago)
0.3 km
Explore the architectural gem of the Oliver Building, a historical landmark in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Loop district.
Carbide & Carbon Building
0.3 km
Discover the Carbide & Carbon Building, an iconic Art Deco masterpiece in Chicago, showcasing the city’s rich architectural heritage and history.
Reid Murdoch Building
0.3 km
Discover the Reid Murdoch Building, a historical landmark in Chicago that beautifully showcases the city’s architectural heritage and vibrant riverfront.
Site of Old Fort Dearborn
0.3 km
Explore the Site of Old Fort Dearborn, a historic landmark in Chicago that offers a glimpse into the city's military past and serene park surroundings.
McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
0.3 km
Explore the rich history of the Chicago River and its iconic bridge at the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, a must-see attraction along the Riverwalk.
James R. Thompson Center
0.4 km
Explore Chicago's James R. Thompson Center, an architectural marvel blending modern design with state government functionality in the heart of the city.
Marshall Field and Company Building
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Marshall Field and Company Building, a Chicago landmark that blends shopping, dining, and culture in one iconic location.
Richard J. Daley Plaza Fountain
0.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of Richard J. Daley Plaza Fountain in the heart of Chicago's bustling Loop.
DuSable Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of DuSable Bridge, a must-see landmark in the heart of Chicago.
Eternal Flame Memorial
0.4 km
Discover the Eternal Flame Memorial in Chicago: a poignant historical landmark honoring heroes with its enduring flame and rich narratives of bravery.
The Picasso
0.4 km
Explore The Picasso, a monumental sculpture in Chicago's Loop, symbolizing art, culture, and urban life.
Unmissable attractions to see
36 Chicago Riverwalk
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant Chicago Riverwalk, where stunning architecture meets lively dining and outdoor activities in the heart of the Windy City.
22 Chicago Riverwalk
0.0 km
Experience the beauty of Chicago's Riverwalk, where stunning views, delicious dining, and vibrant culture await along the scenic Chicago River.
Dearborn Street Bridge
0.1 km
Experience the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Dearborn Street Bridge in the heart of Chicago, where the city meets the river.
House of Blues Chicago
0.1 km
Discover live music, Southern cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere at House of Blues Chicago, a premier destination for unforgettable experiences.
Thirty Five E Wacker
0.1 km
Explore the historic Thirty Five E Wacker, a stunning architectural gem in Chicago's Loop, offering rich history and captivating design.
10pin Bowling Lounge
0.2 km
Experience the ultimate blend of bowling, dining, and nightlife at 10pin Bowling Lounge in Chicago's vibrant Near North Side.
The Chicago Theatre
0.2 km
Experience the cultural heartbeat of Chicago at The Chicago Theatre, a historic venue for live performances and entertainment.
Medieval Torture Museum
0.2 km
Discover the chilling past at Chicago's Medieval Torture Museum, where history's darker sides come to life through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Riverwalk - 100 W
0.2 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Chicago's Riverwalk, an urban oasis with stunning views, dining options, and art along the iconic Chicago River.
Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tours
0.2 km
Explore the chilling tales of Chicago's notorious gangsters and the ghosts that haunt its streets on the captivating Gangsters and Ghosts Tours.
James M. Nederlander Theatre
0.3 km
Experience the magic of live theater at the iconic James M. Nederlander Theatre in Chicago, where Broadway meets local artistry in a stunning setting.
Essential places to dine
State and Lake Chicago Tavern
0.1 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine at State and Lake Chicago Tavern - where great food meets lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Siena Tavern
0.3 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Siena Tavern, where tradition meets modern flair in the heart of Chicago.
Billy Goat Tavern (Millennium Park)
0.3 km
Discover Billy Goat Tavern: A historic Chicago grill serving iconic burgers in a vibrant atmosphere near Millennium Park.
The Kitchen American Bistro
0.3 km
Experience modern American cuisine at The Kitchen American Bistro in Chicago - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
Elephant & Castle
0.3 km
Discover the charm of British pub culture at Elephant & Castle in Chicago's Loop – where great food meets lively ambiance.
Petterinos
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors in an elegant setting at Petterinos in Chicago Loop, where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.
The Dearborn
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Dearborn in Chicago's Loop - where delicious food meets a lively atmosphere.
River Roast
0.3 km
Discover River Roast: A stylish New American restaurant along the Chicago River offering delectable dishes and stunning views for every occasion.
The Smith
0.3 km
Experience the essence of American cuisine at The Smith in Chicago's vibrant Near North Side, where comfort meets culinary excellence.
Il Porcellino
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Il Porcellino in Chicago's Near North Side—where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
Atwood
0.4 km
Discover Atwood in Chicago Loop: A top-notch New American restaurant known for brunch delights and craft cocktails.
Roka Akor - Chicago
0.5 km
Experience exquisite Japanese cuisine fused with premium steakhouse flavors at Roka Akor in Chicago's vibrant Near North Side.
312 Chicago
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at 312 Chicago – where fine dining meets vibrant city life in the heart of the Loop.
The Purple Pig Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors at The Purple Pig Restaurant in Chicago – where every dish tells a story.
Doc B's Restaurant (River North)
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Doc B's Restaurant in River North - where delicious food meets great cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
I Love Chicago
0.3 km
Discover unique Chicago gifts and souvenirs at I Love Chicago, the ultimate destination for local treasures and memorabilia.
Bye Bye Chicago
0.3 km
Explore Bye Bye Chicago for unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the spirit of the Windy City. A must-visit for every traveler.
After School Matters Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore the After School Matters Gift Shop: A unique Chicago destination for handcrafted gifts that support local youth programs.
Kyrgyzstan
0.4 km
Explore the heart of Kyrgyzstan through its unique gifts and handcrafted treasures at this charming shop, perfect for every traveler.
YoGoe
0.4 km
Explore YoGoe Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique, locally sourced gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Windy City.
Buddy
0.5 km
Explore Buddy Gallery in Chicago Loop – a unique boutique and art gallery showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity.
The Shops at North Bridge
0.6 km
Discover a retail haven at The Shops at North Bridge, where shopping meets dining in the heart of Chicago's vibrant atmosphere.
Raw Edge Magnificent Mile - Modern Artisan Boutique
0.6 km
Explore Raw Edge Magnificent Mile for unique artisan gifts that capture the essence of Chicago's vibrant culture and creativity.
Lively Gifts
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Lively Gifts, a charming gift shop in the heart of Chicago's Near North Side.
P.O.S.H.
0.6 km
Explore P.O.S.H., Chicago's unique gift shop, offering eclectic home goods and memorable souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Windy City.
Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover unique Chicago souvenirs at the Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop, where local culture meets exquisite gifting.
My Chicago!
0.7 km
Discover a unique blend of clothing and souvenirs at My Chicago! – your go-to destination for capturing the spirit of the Windy City.
Marshalls
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant shopping experience at Marshalls in Chicago, where style meets savings in a wide range of clothing and accessories.
Chicago Souvenir Company
0.7 km
Explore Chicago Souvenir Company for unique and authentic memorabilia that captures the spirit of the Windy City.
Feelings Gift Shop
0.8 km
Explore Feelings Gift Shop in Chicago Loop for unique souvenirs and handcrafted gifts that capture the heart of the Windy City.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar
0.1 km
Discover RAISED | An Urban Rooftop Bar in Chicago Loop for stunning views, handcrafted cocktails, and vibrant social atmosphere.
320 River Bar
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at 320 River Bar, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Chicago.
Emerald Loop Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and Irish pub charm at Emerald Loop Bar & Grill in the heart of Chicago's Loop.
Bar Pendry Chicago
0.3 km
Discover the elegance of Bar Pendry in Chicago Loop, where innovative cocktails meet a stylish atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Rossi's
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rossi's Bar in Chicago's Near North Side, where great drinks and an inviting atmosphere await.
The Boss Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Boss Bar, a top destination in Chicago for cocktails, live music, and unforgettable memories.
Three Dots and a Dash
0.4 km
Experience tropical cocktails and an enchanting ambiance at Three Dots and a Dash, Chicago's premier cocktail bar.
MBar - Millennium Station
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Chicago at MBar - a modern bar offering unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere in Millennium Station.
Upstairs at The Gwen
0.5 km
Discover the elegance of cocktail culture at Upstairs at The Gwen, a rooftop bar offering stunning views and exquisite drinks in the heart of Chicago.
Bunny Slope
0.6 km
Discover Bunny Slope, a chic cocktail bar in Chicago's Near North Side, offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for every night out.
The Berkshire Room
0.6 km
Experience the elegance of The Berkshire Room, Chicago's premier lounge offering exquisite cocktails and a chic atmosphere in the Near North Side.
Broken Shaker at Freehand Chicago
0.6 km
Discover innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere at Broken Shaker, a standout cocktail bar in the heart of Chicago's nightlife.
Eno Wine Bar
0.6 km
Indulge in an exquisite selection of wines and gourmet pairings at Eno Wine Bar, a chic destination for wine enthusiasts in Chicago's Streeterville.
Watershed Bar
0.6 km
Discover Watershed Bar in Chicago, where creative cocktails meet a cozy ambiance in the heart of the city.
Gilt Bar
0.6 km
Experience the charm of Gilt Bar in Chicago, where upscale dining meets a lively cocktail bar atmosphere, perfect for an unforgettable night out.