Chicago Riverwalk
Riverside pedestrian path featuring city views & dining, plus bridges, fishing piers & boat docks.
Chicago Riverwalk is rated 4.8 / 5 from 22,878 Google reviews and sits about 4.8 km (60 min walk) from Fullerton station.
General overview
About Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a free, pedestrian-oriented waterfront promenade along the south bank of the Chicago River in downtown Chicago. Extending roughly 1.25 miles from Lake Michigan west to Lake Street, it combines river and architecture views with public art, seating, seasonal restaurants, boat tours, and recreational activities.
- Free public access to the downtown riverfront
- Excellent views of Chicago's architecture and movable bridges
- Seasonal waterfront restaurants, bars, and cafés
- Access to architecture cruises and other riverboat tours
- Public art, landscaped areas, seating, and fishing locations
- Convenient connections to the Chicago Loop and lakefront
Things to do here
Self-guided Riverwalk stroll
Walk the riverfront from Lake Michigan toward Lake Street, passing distinct areas such as the Marina, Cove, River Theater, Water Plaza, Jetty, and Boardwalk.
Architecture viewing
See major downtown buildings and bridges from river level. The Riverwalk is especially attractive around Wacker Drive and the Michigan Avenue/DuSable Bridge.
Chicago architecture cruise
Several commercial operators depart from docks on or near the Riverwalk. Cruises generally require a separate paid ticket and often sell out during busy periods.
Dining and drinks
Seasonal concessions offer food, coffee, beer, wine, and cocktails. Availability and operating dates vary by vendor and weather.
Kayaking and recreational rentals
Commercial operators have historically offered seasonal kayak tours or rentals on the river. Separate charges, age rules, waivers, and weather restrictions apply.
Public art and events
The Riverwalk features rotating or permanent artwork and may host seasonal cultural programming and public events.
Riverfront photography
Popular subjects include the bridges, boats, Wacker Drive, Marina City, the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and skyline reflections.
Public transportation is usually easiest because downtown parking is expensive. Useful access points include Lake Street, LaSalle Street, Clark Street, State Street, Michigan Avenue, Columbus Drive, and the lakefront. Stairs are common, so visitors requiring step-free access should look for designated ramps or elevators.
No booking is normally needed for the Riverwalk itself. Reserve popular architecture cruises, kayak outings, and restaurant tables in advance during summer, weekends, and holidays.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Chicago Riverwalk is about 4.8 km (~60 min walk) from Fullerton station on the Chicago "L".
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Pequod's Pizza
Restaurants · 13 min walk
★ 4.4
Lincoln Park Zoo
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Wrigley Field
Places to visit · 32 min walk
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Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile
Hotels · 45 min walk
★ 4.5
875 North Michigan Avenue
Places to visit · 48 min walk
★ 4.7
Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
Restaurants · 49 min walk
★ 4.4
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Chicago Riverwalk from Fullerton station?
Chicago Riverwalk is about 4761 m (roughly 60 min walk) from Fullerton station on the Chicago "L". Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Chicago Riverwalk rated?
Chicago Riverwalk has a Google rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 22,878 reviews.
What's near Chicago Riverwalk?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Pequod's Pizza, Lincoln Park Zoo, Wrigley Field.
Is Chicago Riverwalk wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Chicago Riverwalk: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom.
Is there parking near Chicago Riverwalk?
Google lists these parking options near Chicago Riverwalk: paid parking lot, paid street parking.
Is Chicago Riverwalk good for children?
Yes — Google lists Chicago Riverwalk as good for children.
Are dogs allowed at Chicago Riverwalk?
Yes — Google lists Chicago Riverwalk as dog-friendly.
Is the Chicago Riverwalk free?
Yes. Walking and sitting along the public Riverwalk are normally free. Boat tours, food, drinks, rentals, and special experiences cost extra.
How long is the Riverwalk?
The developed downtown route is approximately 1.25 miles, running along the south bank of the Chicago River from the lakefront area west toward Lake Street.
Where is the best place to start?
Michigan Avenue near the DuSable Bridge is a convenient and scenic starting point. For a longer one-way walk, begin near Lake Street or the lakefront and follow the river.
Is the Riverwalk open year-round?
The public walkway is generally open throughout the year during posted daily hours, but snow, ice, flooding, construction, weather, or maintenance can cause closures. Most dining and recreation businesses are seasonal.
Do architecture cruises leave from the Riverwalk?
Yes, several operators use docks on or near the Riverwalk. Departure points differ, so check the operator's ticket carefully and arrive early.
Can I bring food?
Ordinary personal food is generally acceptable unless a posted rule or special event says otherwise. Dispose of waste properly. Outside alcohol is not permitted.
Can I ride a bicycle on the Riverwalk?
The Riverwalk is primarily pedestrian space. Cycling may be restricted, and riders may need to dismount and walk bicycles, particularly in crowded areas. Follow current signs.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Large portions are accessible, but not every street-level entrance is step-free. Use designated ramps or elevators and verify current elevator or construction conditions before arrival.
Are dogs allowed?
Leashed dogs are generally permitted in public outdoor portions, subject to posted rules. Private restaurants, tours, and boats may have separate restrictions.
What attractions are nearby?
Nearby sights include the Chicago Architecture Center, Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, the Chicago Cultural Center, the lakefront, Navy Pier, and numerous Loop architecture landmarks.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 11, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.