Practical Information
Updated: Jan 9, 2026Visit Duration
Minimum1 hours
Recommended2 hours
Maximum3 hours
Entrance Fee
FreeFree. Kayaks $20-35/hour, architecture cruises from $45
Best Time to Visit
Summer for full experience. Sunset for photography
Price Range
FreeHow to Get There
Any metro station in Loop, then 5 min walk to river. Entrances from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street.
What to Expect
2.4 km waterfront with restaurants, bars, kayaks. Architecture cruises depart from here. Wine bars, coffee shops. Summer — live music. Skyscraper views from water level.
Best Photo Spot
View of Marina City (corn cob towers), State Street bridge
Working Hours
Updated: Jan 9, 202624 hours
Note
Riverwalk open 24/7. Restaurants and rentals have separate hours
faq.title
faq.subtitle Chicago Riverwalk
Absolutely! Chicago architecture cruise is one of the best tours in USA. Chicago Architecture Foundation offers the best tours.
Yes, at The Cove (May-October). Single $25/hour, tandem $35/hour. No experience needed.
Travel Tips
Useful tips for visiting Chicago Riverwalk
Book architecture cruise in advance — tickets sell out, especially in summer.
City Winery on the riverwalk — great spot for wine with skyscraper views.
Reviews
Weather
Average temperature by month
Now
1°
1°85%12 м/с
Today
5°-4°
5°-4°Tomorrow10°0°
10°0°Wed
3°-6°
3°-6°Thu-3°-9°
-3°-9°Fri1°-4°
1°-4°Sat-3°-10°
-3°-10°Sun
-11°-13°
-11°-13°1°
-7°Jan
3°
-5°Feb
9°
0°Mar
16°
6°Apr
22°
12°May
27°
17°Jun
30°
20°Jul
28°
19°Aug
25°
15°Sep
18°
9°Oct
10°
2°Nov
3°
-3°Dec
What else to see
Interesting places nearby
