Chicago River, Chicagoland Travel Guide

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Experience Chicago's iconic skyline and rich history with a stroll or cruise along the Chicago River, a true urban masterpiece.

The Chicago River, a dynamic waterway weaving through the heart of Chicago, is more than just a river; it's a symbol of the city's transformation and ingenuity. From its humble beginnings as a marshy stream to its engineered reversal, the river has played a pivotal role in Chicago's growth, industry, and identity. Today, it offers stunning views of the city's iconic architecture and a vibrant riverfront experience.

A brief summary to Chicago River

Illinois, US

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Take an architecture river cruise for an in-depth look at Chicago's iconic buildings and their history.
Stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk for dining, recreation, and stunning city views.
Visit during the annual dyeing of the river green for St. Patrick's Day, a unique Chicago tradition.
Check the schedules for bridge lifts, a fascinating spectacle as the city's movable bridges are raised to allow ships to pass.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

DuSable Bridge

McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

Riverwalk

Site of Old Fort Dearborn

The Wrigley Building

Explore Chicago River on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Chicago River, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Chicago Riverwalk provides easy pedestrian access to many points along the river. From Michigan Avenue, descend to the Riverwalk via stairs or elevators. Follow the path east or west to explore different sections of the riverfront. No cost for access.
Public Transport

Many bus and train lines service the downtown area near the Chicago River. From Union Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center, walk east towards the river. Several 'L' train stations (Red, Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Purple, Pink lines) are within walking distance. Check the CTA website or app for schedules and fares. A single ride is $2.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxi and ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are readily available throughout Chicago. Request a drop-off at a location along Wacker Drive or near a Riverwalk entrance. Expect to pay around $10-15 for a short trip within the downtown area, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Chicago River

The Chicago River is a 156-mile-long network of rivers and canals that has shaped the destiny of Chicago. Originally a sluggish, meandering stream, it was transformed into a vital channel for industry and trade. In a feat of engineering marvel, the river's flow was reversed in 1900 to direct sewage away from Lake Michigan, the city's primary water source.Today, the Chicago River is a vibrant urban waterway offering a unique perspective on the city's architectural heritage. Boat tours along the river provide captivating views of over 40 landmark buildings, showcasing a timeline of architectural styles from Neoclassical to Postmodern. The Chicago Riverwalk, a pedestrian promenade along the river's edge, offers recreational spaces, dining, and cultural attractions.The river's transformation continues with ongoing efforts to improve water quality and enhance its ecological and recreational value. From its industrial past to its revitalized present, the Chicago River embodies the city's spirit of innovation and its commitment to a sustainable future.