Chicago River Tours and Tickets

The Chicago River downtown area offers several walking routes along its beautiful riverfront. One popular route is the Riverwalk, which stretches for 1.25 miles along the south bank of the Chicago River. This pathway provides stunning views of the city’s architecture and plenty of opportunities to relax on benches or at one of the many outdoor cafes.

Another great walking route is the Chicago Riverwalk East Bank, located on the north side of the river. This pathway is 1.3 miles long and offers a more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling Riverwalk on the south bank. Visitors can enjoy quiet strolls and admire the lush greenery along the riverbank.

For a longer walk, visitors can explore the Chicago Riverwalk West Bank, which stretches for 1.5 miles along the river’s west bank. This pathway offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, with views of iconic Chicago landmarks such as the Merchandise Mart and the Wrigley Building.

Overall, the walking routes along the Chicago River offer a variety of experiences for visitors, whether they prefer a leisurely stroll or a more active walk. The pathways are mostly flat with minimal elevation changes, making them accessible to people of all fitness levels.

The best time to visit the Chicago River in Chicago is typically during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is also when the riverfront attractions, such as boat tours, kayaking, and riverwalk events, are in full swing.

However, this time of year also tends to be the busiest in terms of crowds, with many tourists flocking to the city to take advantage of the summer weather. If you prefer to avoid large crowds, consider visiting the Chicago River during the spring or fall months, when the weather is still mild but there are fewer tourists.

In the winter, the Chicago River can be a beautiful sight when it freezes over, especially during the holiday season when the river is decorated with festive lights. However, the weather can be quite cold and snowy during this time, so be prepared for winter conditions if you choose to visit in the colder months.

Throughout the year, the Chicago River hosts various special events and festivals, such as the St. Patrick’s Day dyeing of the river green, the Chicago Riverwalk Summer Series events, and the Great Chicago Fire Festival. Be sure to check the event calendar for any special events happening during your visit.

Overall, the best time to visit the Chicago River depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and the types of activities and events you want to experience along the riverfront.

The Chicago River holds great historical and cultural significance in the city of Chicago. Originally used by indigenous tribes for transportation and trade, the river played a crucial role in the early development of Chicago as a major transportation hub in the 19th century.

One of the most notable events in the history of the Chicago River is the construction of the Chicago Riverwalk, a 1.25-mile-long pedestrian walkway along the river’s edge. The Riverwalk has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering stunning views of the city’s architecture, passing boat tours, and a variety of outdoor activities and dining options.

The Chicago River is also known for its iconic bridges, many of which are historic landmarks in their own right. The movable bridges along the river served as a vital link between the city’s neighborhoods and facilitated the movement of goods and people across the river.

In addition to its historical significance, the Chicago River has been a central feature in many cultural events and traditions in the city. The river is dyed green every year for the St. Patrick’s Day celebration, a tradition that dates back to 1962. The vibrant green color of the river has become a symbol of Chicago’s Irish heritage and is a highly anticipated event each year.

Overall, the Chicago River is a beloved cultural and historical landmark in the city, representing the city’s growth and development over the years and serving as a focal point for various events and activities that celebrate Chicago’s rich heritage.

1. Chicago Riverwalk: The Riverwalk offers numerous photo opportunities with beautiful views of the river, bridges, and skyscrapers. Early morning or around sunset is a great time for photos when the lighting is soft and creates a warm glow over the water.

2. DuSable Bridge (Michigan Avenue Bridge): Head to the DuSable Bridge to capture the iconic scene of the Chicago River and the Magnificent Mile. Sunrise or sunset is an ideal time to photograph this location, as the light hits the buildings and reflects off the water.

3. River North: Explore the River North neighborhood for unique perspectives of the Chicago River and the surrounding architecture. The area is known for its vibrant street art, historic buildings, and bustling riverfront restaurants. Morning or late afternoon provides great lighting for capturing the urban landscape.

4. Wabash Avenue Bridge: The Wabash Avenue Bridge offers fantastic views of the river and the city skyline. Photographers can stand on the bridge to capture the boats passing by, the reflections on the water, and the iconic buildings in the background. Mid-morning or late afternoon is recommended for optimal lighting conditions.

5. Wolf Point Park: Located at the confluence of the North, South, and Main branches of the Chicago River, Wolf Point Park offers panoramic views of the city skyline and waterways. This spot is perfect for capturing the city’s architectural diversity and the river’s winding path. Sunset is a key time to take photos here, as the sky lights up with vibrant colors behind the buildings.

6. Navy Pier: Head to Navy Pier for a different perspective of the Chicago River and the cityscape. The pier offers opportunities to photograph the iconic Ferris wheel, boats on the water, and the skyline in the background. Sunrise or sunset can provide dramatic lighting for stunning photos.

Remember to check local events and the weather forecast before heading out for photography to avoid crowding and capture the best possible shots.

Visitors to the Chicago River in Chicago highly recommend taking an architecture boat tour to learn about the city’s iconic buildings and history. They also suggest exploring the riverwalk for a relaxing stroll with great views of the city skyline. Many visitors praise the vibrant atmosphere along the river with plenty of dining and entertainment options. Locals recommend visiting during the summer months to fully enjoy the river activities and events. Some tips include bringing a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and checking out the various parks and attractions along the river’s edge. Overall, the Chicago River is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike.

Chicago River Mobility Rentals offers a variety of rental options for visitors looking to explore the city with ease. Here is some key information on the different types of rentals available:

1. Bicycle Rentals: Explore the beautiful sights of Chicago along the riverfront with a bicycle rental. Choose from standard bicycles, tandem bikes, or even electric bikes for a more leisurely ride. Helmets and bike locks are provided with each rental for safety.

2. Mobility Scooter Rentals: For those looking for a more comfortable and convenient way to get around, mobility scooters are available for rent. These scooters are easy to operate and can help individuals with limited mobility explore the city without any issues.

3. Wheelchair Rentals: Chicago River Mobility Rentals also offers wheelchair rentals for visitors who require assistance with mobility. The wheelchairs are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them a great option for exploring the city’s attractions and sights.

Whether you’re looking to bike along the river, cruise around on a scooter, or navigate the city in a wheelchair, Chicago River Mobility Rentals has options to suit your needs. Rentals can be reserved in advance online or by visiting their rental locations along the river. Enjoy a fun and convenient way to experience all that Chicago has to offer!

The Chicago River is a unique and iconic feature of the city of Chicago. What makes the Chicago River special is its history, as it played a significant role in the development of the city. The river was even reversed in the early 20th century to help with sanitation and shipping, a feat of engineering that is still impressive to this day.

One of the best ways to experience the Chicago River is by taking an architecture boat tour. These tours provide a unique perspective on the city’s skyline and allow visitors to learn about the history and design of the various buildings along the river. The Chicago Riverwalk is also a popular attraction, offering a scenic walkway with restaurants, bars, and public art installations.

The Chicago River is best suited for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of the city from a different vantage point. Whether you’re taking a boat tour, strolling along the Riverwalk, or simply admiring the views from one of the many bridges that cross the river, the Chicago River is a must-see attraction for visitors to the city.

While the Chicago River is famous for its architectural boat tours and stunning skyline views, there are a few hidden gems along the river that are worth exploring:

1. Riverwalk Murals: Along the Riverwalk, you can find a series of vibrant murals created by local artists. These murals showcase Chicago’s diverse culture and history, adding an artistic touch to the riverfront.

2. Ping Tom Memorial Park: Located in the Chinatown neighborhood, Ping Tom Memorial Park offers a peaceful oasis along the river. The park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a pagoda-style pavilion where you can relax and enjoy views of the river.

3. Chicago Riverwalk Bridges: Instead of just taking a boat tour, consider exploring the riverwalk bridges that span across the Chicago River. Each bridge has its own unique design and history, providing a different perspective of the river and the city.

4. Urban Kayaking: For a more active way to experience the Chicago River, you can rent a kayak and paddle along the waterway. Urban kayaking allows you to explore hidden corners of the river and get up close to the city’s architecture.

5. Riverfront Dining: While there are plenty of bars and restaurants along the Riverwalk, there are also hidden gems tucked away in nearby neighborhoods. Venture out to spots like Bridge House Tavern or City Winery for a unique dining experience with river views.

Exploring these hidden gems along the Chicago River will give you a deeper appreciation for this iconic waterway and the city it flows through.

1. Life jackets: If you are participating in any water activities on the Chicago River, it is recommended that you wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. This is especially important for activities such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.

2. Stay on marked paths: When walking or biking along the Chicago River, make sure to stay on marked paths and trails. Do not venture off into areas that are not designated for pedestrians or cyclists.

3. Follow traffic signals: If you are crossing any bridges over the Chicago River, make sure to obey traffic signals and use crosswalks when they are available. Do not try to jaywalk or cross the street in a dangerous manner.

4. Stay hydrated: Since Chicago can experience hot and humid weather during the summer months, it is important to stay hydrated while exploring the city and the Chicago River. Make sure to bring water with you and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

5. Respect wildlife: The Chicago River is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other animals. Make sure to respect their habitats and observe them from a safe distance. Do not disturb or feed the wildlife.

6. Know emergency protocols: If you encounter an emergency situation while on the Chicago River, know how to call for help. Dial 911 for emergencies and be prepared to provide your location and details about the situation.

7. Check for any advisories: Before visiting the Chicago River, check for any advisories or alerts that may be in place. This could include water quality advisories, weather warnings, or any other important information that could affect your visit.

By following these safety protocols and rules, you can enjoy a safe and pleasant experience while visiting the Chicago River.

1. Great Blue Heron

2. Black-crowned Night Heron

3. Double-crested Cormorant

4. Canada Goose

5. Mallard Duck

6. American Robin

7. Black-capped Chickadee

8. American Goldfinch

9. Belted Kingfisher

10. Northern Cardinal