Getting to Know the Layout

The Riverwalk is generally grouped into a handful of distinct sections, each with its own character:

• The Confluence — the western end near where the river's branches meet, known for wide-open views and a great vantage point for public art installations on the Merchandise Mart.
• The Arcade — a shaded stretch beneath several historic bridges, home to cafes and rotating art displays. A good option for escaping the summer sun.
• The Civic — a quieter, more reflective stretch, home to the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza.
• The Esplanade — the liveliest section, packed with restaurants, bars, seating areas, and the kayak launch. Most visitors spend the bulk of their time here.

Things to Do

• Boat tours and water taxis — several companies offer architecture and sightseeing cruises departing right from the Riverwalk, and the Chicago Water Taxi offers an affordable way to travel along the river.
• Kayak rentals — rent a kayak and paddle the river yourself for a different perspective on the skyline.
• Public art — keep an eye out for rotating installations throughout the walk, including seasonal projections on the Merchandise Mart facade.
• The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum — a small museum inside a historic bridgehouse, covering the history and engineering of the river.

Where to Eat and Drink

Many of the Riverwalk's restaurants are seasonal, typically opening in early May and closing in late October, so late spring through early fall is the best window to catch the full lineup. A few standouts:

• City Winery is a popular date-night pick, with wine on tap, live music, and river views.
• Pizzeria Portofino is one of the few year-round options on the Riverwalk, making it a solid choice no matter the season.
• Sweet Home Gelato sits near the splash pad and offers daily gelato flavors, including vegan options, a nice stop if you're out with kids.
• For something more budget-friendly, look for casual counter-service spots serving tacos and other quick bites along the eastern stretch near Lake Shore Drive.

Practical Tips

• It's free. Walking the Riverwalk doesn't cost anything, though boat tours, kayak rentals, and some attractions nearby do require tickets.
• It's easy to reach. The Riverwalk is walkable from several CTA stations downtown, including State/Lake, Clark/Lake, and LaSalle.
• Plan for 1 to 3 hours if you want to actually stop and enjoy restaurants, art, or a tour, rather than just walking end to end.
• Weekday mornings and early evenings tend to be quieter than weekend afternoons, if you're looking to avoid crowds.

Final Thoughts

The Riverwalk is one of the easiest ways to experience downtown Chicago at street level, mixing skyline views, food, and outdoor space into one walkable stretch. Whether you're spending a few minutes crossing through or making an afternoon of it, it's worth a visit any time you're downtown.

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