Chicago Riverwalk

About

The Chicago Riverwalk stretches 1.25 miles along the south bank of the Chicago River's main branch, from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. What was once an underused lower level of Wacker Drive has been transformed into one of the city's most vibrant public spaces, drawing locals and visitors alike to the water's edge.

The Riverwalk is divided into distinct sections called "rooms," each with its own character. You'll find areas dedicated to dining, kayak rentals, public art, gardens, and simple relaxation. Restaurants and cafes line several stretches, offering everything from craft beer to wood-fired pizza with views of the river and the iconic architecture rising above it.

One of the best ways to experience the Riverwalk is to simply stroll it end to end. Along the way, you'll pass beneath some of Chicago's most famous bridges and get a ground-level perspective on the city's legendary architecture. Boat tour companies operate from multiple points along the path, offering architectural cruises that are consistently rated among the top things to do in the city.

The Riverwalk hosts free public programming throughout the warmer months, including live music, fitness classes, and art installations. The fishing section provides free rod-and-reel lending, and the kayak launch area gives paddlers direct access to the river.

For practical planning, the Riverwalk is open year-round, though most vendors and concessions operate seasonally from roughly May through October. There's no admission fee to walk the path. The area is well-served by public transit, with multiple CTA train stations and bus routes nearby. Street-level access points connect to Upper Wacker Drive at several intersections.

Whether you're looking for a waterfront meal, a scenic walk, or a launching point for exploring Chicago's world-class architecture, the Riverwalk delivers a memorable experience right in the heart of downtown.

Accessibility

The City of Chicago has stated that the Riverwalk is 'fully accessible' to people with disabilities. The path itself is paved and generally flat along its length, running at river level below the street grade of Upper Wacker Drive.

Accessing the Riverwalk from street level requires using ramps or stairs at various entry points. An ADA-compliant ramp is located at Wacker Drive and State Street. Some access points may require traveling a block or two to reach a ramped entrance rather than stairs, so planning your entry point in advance is helpful.

For boat tours, Wendella Boats offers accessible boarding options. To inquire about ADA accessibility or arrange pickup from accessible locations, contact them at 312-337-1446 or [email protected].

The Riverwalk connects to Navy Pier and the broader lakefront path system, both of which offer accessible routes. Restrooms are available at several vendor locations along the path.

Public transit access is strong. Several nearby CTA stations offer elevator service, though it's worth checking the CTA's accessibility page for current elevator status before your trip. Ride-share and taxi drop-off is available at street level along Upper Wacker Drive.

For the most current accessibility information, including details about specific vendor locations, seasonal programming accommodations, and any construction that may affect access, contact the Chicago Department of Transportation or visit the city's official Riverwalk page. The McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum can be reached at (312) 977-0227 for accessibility questions about their specific venue along the Riverwalk.

More accessible places in Illinois

• Adler Planetarium (Chicago)
• National Museum of Mexican Art (Chicago)
• Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago)
• DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center (Chicago)
• Garfield Park Conservatory (Chicago)
• Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (Chicago)