Located on the south bank of the Chicago River, the award-winning, pedestrian-friendly Chicago Riverwalk stretches 1.25 miles from Lake Michigan to Lake Street. Along the way, you’ll discover cozy coves, cool cafes, wineries and bars, public art, monuments, museums, and plenty of water tours.
Taste fine wines on the bustling patio, sip a tropical cocktail in the tiki hut, and enjoy locally made cider in the spacious beer garden-all while overlooking the Chicago River.
There are many great waterfront restaurants and bars along the Chicago Riverwalk. One popular spot is the Riverwalk City Winery wine garden. Enjoy a glass of their signature wines on tap, a cheese plate, and a seat on the patio overlooking the famous Navy Pier Towers. In the winter, book one of their heated domes to feel like you’re on a giant snow globe.
You can’t visit the Chicago Riverwalk without going out on the water. Generally from May to October, choose from a variety of river cruise options.
Opt for an elegant dinner cruise aboard a glass vessel or take an educational architectural cruise from Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady; Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline, Shoreline Sightseeing or Wendella Sightseeing to learn about the fascinating history of the riverfront skyscrapers.
Some other unique boat tour options include Island Party Hut Charters, Chicago Cycleboats, and the eco-friendly Chicago Electric Boat Company. Check out all the Chicago boat tours to find the one that’s right for you.
The Chicago Riverwalk is an urban canvas where you’ll see permanent and changing public art by some of today’s leading artists, from eye-catching sculptures to colorful murals.
Art on theMART is the Riverwalk’s artistic crown jewel. It’s the largest digital art projection in the world, covering more than 2.5 acres of the MART’s river-facing facade and featuring works by renowned local and international artists. Watch the free nightly show from April to December.