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Chicago Riverwalk & Lakefront Trail

Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, Illinois

Description

The Chicago Riverwalk contains restaurants, cafes, and other amenities along the main branch of the Chicago River from Lake Michigan. It is continuously being expanded - currently until Lake Street. Lakefront Trail then "takes over" along the Michigan lake waterfront with shared used path for walking, jogging, skateboarding, and cycling over nearly 30km. The trail runs through Lincoln Park, Grant Park, Burnham Park, and Jackson Park.

Access & Transport

For Riverfront, the closest metro station is Lake (red) and for train stations it is Millenium (ME, SSL). The River ferries are also an option and so are the buses along E Wacker Dr. The ME train line runs parallel to the lakefront Trail.

Instructions & Recommendations

Lake front is best for a walk between 2 museum visits or a run whereas the Riverwalk is better for lunch / dinner or drinks.

Meta review

Both sections are extremely popular. The Lakefront trail is, according to online reviewers, a great way to enjoy the outdoors right from within the city. Hiring a bike enables one to cover most ground and discover some of the more residential areas towards the north where children and adults alike play various sports or sail. The Riverwalk has a different atmosphere and is best for evening dinner and drinks; it is quite busy with tourists in the summer.

Environmental & Social

The Riverwalk development is resources intensive but helps with the rejuvenation of some neighbourhoods whereas the lakefront trail also requires some asphalting but get people to enjoy their natural environment.

Conclusion

The Lakefront Trail is probably the #1 choice for travellers to Chicago looking for a run but is also a great way to discover the city skyline and take a break from the urban environment. The Riverwalk on the other hand is more of a dining and commercial destination with a dash of natural setting.

Key positive

Both are central and great for walks

Good way to take in the cityscape

Key negative

None

Suitability

Suitable for all ages and accessible to visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in October 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:1h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightOk

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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