The Chicago Riverwalk is one of my favorite places to chill out and enjoy Chicago. It has lots of spots for sitting to enjoy the view and the gorgeous weather. There are plenty of fun things to do like kayaking, boat tours and watching the day go by. I even had lunch there recently with my coworkers since our building is so close! Day or night it is beautiful, clean and fun. The Riverwalk is on the South side of the river and runs from Lakeshore Drive to Franklin Street. There are four separate districts within the riverwalk: Confluence, Arcade, Civic and Market, all with a specific location and theme in mind. The entire riverwalk is absolutely gorgeous and just another reason to be so proud of our city!
The Confluence is where the North and South branches of the River converge. There is pedestrian access to Upper and Lower Wacker Drives both with beautiful river views.
If you want to visit here go to the area of Franklin/Orleans, Lake and Kinzie streets.
Kayaking is a big attraction at the Chicago Riverwalk. You can take kayak tours or go it alone and either way you will enjoy the day. (Going at sunset is a beautiful date night idea too.) You must be 18 years or older to go alone and experience is required (there is a skills test) but if you are new to the adventure you can get a lesson from Urban Kayaks and be on your way!
The Arcade district is between Franklin and State Streets. It is called Arcade because of the historical architectural detailing that separates the riverfront from the rest of the Wacker Drive.
The Civic district lies between Dearborn and Michigan Avenues.
Here you can find trump Tower, the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower. There are boat tours along this section of the riverwalk so you can take architectural tours in the day and go out on the water to watch firework at night.
I love to go to the tiki bar along the riverwalk called Island Party Hut. With picnic tables, food, drinks and lots of fun games like giant Connect Four, giant Jenga and cornhole/bags you cant go wrong. Kids are welcome and they have a blast too!
Reggae bands and dancing help make it a little slice of island paradise in the big city.
The Market District runs from Columbus to Lakeshore Drives. It is beautifully landscaped and a favorite place to relax in the gorgeous city.
Whether you are a tourist from out of town or nearby you should definitely plan a day or night to visit the Chicago Riverwalk.
I guarantee you will want to go again and again.
Maybe I will see you there!
