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McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, Chicagoland Travel Guide

4.5 (218)

Explore the architectural marvels of Chicago at the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, where history meets innovation along the river.

The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history of bridges and architecture. Nestled along the iconic Chicago Riverwalk, this museum invites tourists to explore the fascinating stories behind Chicago's renowned movable bridges, from their engineering marvels to their vital role in the city's development.

A brief summary to McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum.

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Check the museum's website for any special exhibitions or events during your visit.
  • Don't miss the observation deck for stunning views of the Chicago skyline and river.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the engineering of the bridges.
  • Use public transport or bike rentals to reach the museum easily, as parking can be limited.

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Getting There

  • Car

    If you are driving, head towards downtown Chicago. Use the I-90/I-94 (Kennedy Expressway) or I-290 (Eisenhower Expressway) and follow the signs for 'Loop'. Once in the Loop, look for Wacker Drive and head east towards the Chicago River. Turn onto W Riverwalk South and follow it until you reach 99 Chicago Riverwalk, where the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum is located. There are several parking garages nearby, such as the River East Garage at 322 E Illinois St.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum via public transportation, take the 'L' train to the State/Lake station on the Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, or Purple lines. From the station, walk south on State Street towards Wacker Drive, then head east on Wacker Drive until you reach the Chicago River. Continue along the Riverwalk heading east until you arrive at 99 Chicago Riverwalk. Alternatively, you can use the bus; take the #60 or #151 to the Michigan & Wacker stop and walk towards the river.

Discover more about McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

Situated on the picturesque Chicago Riverwalk, the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This unique museum is housed within the historic bridgehouse of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, offering visitors an engaging experience that connects them to the city's rich architectural heritage. Through a variety of exhibits, the museum presents the engineering feats of Chicago's iconic movable bridges, showcasing their design and functionality along with the stories of their impact on the city’s growth.As you explore the museum, you'll discover interactive displays and informative panels that delve into the history of the Chicago River and its transformation over the years. Highlights include stunning views of the river and the surrounding skyline from the observation deck, which gives a breathtaking perspective of the city’s remarkable architecture. The knowledgeable staff are eager to share insights, making your visit even more enriching.The museum is open daily, allowing ample opportunity to fit it into your Chicago itinerary. For those looking to deepen their understanding of the city's infrastructure, guided tours are available, providing an in-depth look at the engineering principles that have shaped the bridges. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum presents a perfect blend of education and stunning visual experiences that capture the essence of Chicago’s architectural legacy.
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