Chicago Riverwalk

Chicago, Illinois, US

The Chicago Riverwalk is a paved promenade hugging the Chicago River, offering a string of restaurants, bars and open spaces where you can walk, dine and watch the river and skyline. It ranks as the city’s second‑most popular attraction, making it a central urban experience.

Why choose Chicago Riverwalk

Strolling the Riverwalk lets you feel the pulse of Chicago from water level, with unobstructed skyline views you won’t get from a distant park. The mix of dining spots and public art creates a lively backdrop you can’t replicate elsewhere.

Best for: Photography · Couples · First-timers · Families

Start your Riverwalk stroll

Begin on the Riverwalk, then walk to nearby sights for a relaxed half‑day exploring the lakefront and downtown.

1. Morning — Chicago Riverwalk
2. 11:00 — Millennium Park
3. Afternoon — Cloud Gate

Visit tips

• Enter from the State Street side for a quieter start.
• Grab a coffee at a riverside café and watch the boats pass.
• Visit early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and enjoy calmer river views.
• Bring a light jacket; winds off the lake can be brisk on the promenade.

Plan your visit

• Recommended duration: 1–2 hours — depends on walking pace
• Best time of day: Early morning, before 9:00 — calmer and cooler
• Category: attraction
• Rated 4.6 by 3188 reviewers
• Tags: riverwalk, skyline views, foodie stop, photo ops

Nearby attractions

• Millennium Park — park, 8 min walk
• The Art Institute of Chicago — museum, 12 min walk
• Cloud Gate — monument, 8 min walk
• Willis Tower — landmark, 19 min walk
• The Magnificent Mile — neighborhood, 13 min walk
• Lou Malnati's Pizzeria — restaurant, 11 min walk

More things to do in Chicago

• Millennium Park
• The Art Institute of Chicago
• United Center
• Cloud Gate
• Willis Tower
• Pequod's Pizza

See all things to do in Chicago or plan a full Chicago itinerary with Next Getaway.