Chicago, United States1-2 hoursEvening
Chicago Riverwalk
Ideal: Ideal for city walks, architecture, photography, dining, and a calm central route.
The river you walk beside no longer flows its natural direction: in 1900 engineers reversed the Chicago River with canals and locks because city sewage was mixing into Lake Michigan, the drinking water source — counted among the boldest engineering feats of its era. The waterfront promenade was built in stages and finished in 2016. Since 1962 the river has been dyed green for a few hours every St. Patrick's Day.
Why go?
- To see Chicago architecture at river level
- For a pleasant, orderly walk through the city center
- To add restaurants, cafes, and boat tours to your route
Travel tip
Pair the Riverwalk with an architecture boat tour to understand Chicago's built identity.
