Want to experience the best of River North Chicago? This vibrant district packs countless attractions into one walkable neighborhood. The area sits perfectly between the Chicago Loop, Gold Coast, Streeterville, and Fulton Market, making it your gateway to Chicago’s finest experiences.
The neighborhood’s 13 walkable blocks along the Magnificent Mile house more than 430 retailers. You can also enjoy a peaceful walk along the 3.4-mile Chicago Riverwalk. River North’s nightlife scene truly stands out with unique spots like TAO Chicago, where guests dine under a massive 20-foot Quan Yin statue overlooking a koi pond. The Drifter adds mystery to your evening – this basement speakeasy presents over 100 cocktails on Tarot cards. The area’s entertainment options include Tony Award-winning theaters and arcade venues that blend classic games with lively bar atmospheres. Some of Chicago’s most talked-about restaurants call River North home. Ready to find what makes River North Chicago’s trendiest neighborhood? Let Metropolitan Shuttle guide you!
Where is River North and Why It’s So Popular
River North gets its name from its location just north of the Chicago River. The Chicago River borders this downtown neighborhood to the south and west, while Michigan Avenue marks its eastern edge and Chicago Avenue its northern boundary.
From Warehouse District to Cultural Hub
River North’s story shows how a neighborhood can change completely. The area was mostly warehouses and empty buildings until the 1970s. Everything changed when artists and entrepreneurs saw something special in those big, cheap lofts and storefronts.
These creative pioneers turned old factories into art spaces and homes. Their gamble paid off big time. The old industrial area has become one of Chicago’s most exciting neighborhoods. It now has more art galleries than anywhere else in America except Manhattan.
The neighborhood’s prime spot makes life easy for everyone. River North sits right next to the Loop (Chicago’s central business district). You can walk to major spots like Millennium Park and the Art Institute easily.
Getting around couldn’t be simpler. The area has several “L” train stations and bus routes that connect to the rest of the city. Summer brings a fun option – water taxis that let you travel while taking in the views.
The Gallery District
Art enthusiasts love River North, and with good reason too. Superior Street and Wells Street are packed with contemporary art galleries. You’ll see works by prominent international artists and rising local talents. Friday evenings are special here. Gallery openings turn the streets into social spots where you can check out new art while chatting with Chicago’s art crowd.
Culinary Paradise
Food lovers call River North a dream destination. Restaurants are everywhere – from casual spots to fancy places run by celebrity chefs. Italian beef sandwiches, gourmet donuts, prime steaks, and creative fusion dishes are all within walking distance.
The neighborhood’s steakhouses stand out. Places like Gene & Georgetti’s (Chicago’s oldest steakhouse) and Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf mix classic American dining with modern style.
Architectural Significance
River North shows off Chicago’s architectural heritage beautifully. The Merchandise Mart (once the world’s largest building) stands proud next to modern skyscrapers. This mix of old and new creates amazing cityscapes that architecture fans love.
Many old industrial buildings have found new life here. Old printing houses have become luxury condos, and former factories now house trendy restaurants.
Nightlife Central
River North really shines after dark. The neighborhood has earned its spot as Chicago’s top nightlife area. You’ll find sophisticated cocktail lounges, energetic dance clubs, and everything in between.
Jazz clubs, comedy venues, and cozy music spots offer alternatives to regular bars. That’s why both tourists and locals head here for evening fun.
Shopping Haven
Part of the Magnificent Mile falls within River North, giving shoppers access to flagship stores, luxury boutiques, and multi-floor shopping experiences. Beyond the big names, small independent shops sell vintage clothing and handmade jewelry.
The Appeal of River North
River North stands out because it does everything well. The neighborhood blends high art with fun entertainment, historic buildings with modern life, and tourist spots with local hangouts. This mix draws all kinds of visitors – food lovers, art fans, architecture buffs, and night owls alike.
The best part about River North is how walkable it is. Despite having so much to offer, you can explore everything on foot. This creates lively streets where wandering between galleries, restaurants, and shops becomes an adventure itself.
Walking the Riverwalk: A Scenic Start to Your Visit
The Chicago Riverwalk welcomes visitors with River North’s vibrant energy and stunning beauty. This 1.25-mile pedestrian path along the Chicago River’s south bank has evolved from an industrial shipping zone into one of downtown’s most cherished spots. Visitors can enjoy this space daily from 6 am to 11 pm, where the Riverwalk showcases Chicago’s magnificent architecture within an urban canyon setting.
Best entry points and how to get there
Multiple access points make reaching the Riverwalk easy throughout River North. The path stretches from Lake Street on the west to Lake Shore Drive on the east. Public transportation options include:
- From CTA train: The Clark/Lake station (Brown, Blue, Pink, Orange, Purple, Green lines) puts you just two blocks from the ADA-available ramp on Clark Street’s west side. You can also use the State/Lake station and reach the available ramp on State Street’s east side.
- From Metra: A short walk from either Union Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center leads you to the Lake Street entrance.
Drivers can park in numerous private garages near Upper Wacker Drive, which runs alongside the Riverwalk. The Chicago Water Taxi adds a scenic touch to your journey at $6 for one-way tickets or $10 for all-day passes.
The Riverwalk’s ADA-available ramps west of Franklin Street, west of Clark Street, and east of State Street make this attraction available to everyone.
What to see along the way
The Riverwalk features four unique districts: The Confluence, The Arcade, The Civic, and The Esplanade. Each area blends natural beauty with urban design elements beautifully.
The magnificent Merchandise Mart stands near Michigan Avenue. This massive art-deco building comes alive with “Art on theMART,” a dazzling light and projection show that runs nightly from March through December across nearly three acres of the building’s facade. The riverfront transforms into an open-air gallery after sunset.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial creates a peaceful space with its ivy and tree-lined walkway. Floating gardens dot the landscape and serve dual purposes – they beautify the space and help clean the river water while supporting fish populations.
The Chicago River’s bridges create perfect photo spots. The LaSalle Street Bridge perfectly frames the Chicago Board of Trade, while grand staircases from street level offer stunning city views throughout the Riverwalk.
Riverwalk dining and drinks
The Riverwalk’s waterfront establishments offer great refreshment options. Most businesses operate seasonally (April through November), with some winter options.
City Winery stands out with its tap wines, artisanal cheese plates, and Mediterranean cuisine served on a spacious patio. Winter brings heated glass enclosures and cozy “River Domes” you can book ahead.
Beer lovers will appreciate Chicago Brewhouse’s local craft selections paired with pub food that celebrates the city’s global neighborhoods. Sweet Home Gelato satisfies sweet cravings with handcrafted gelato and sorbet flavors like amaretta, chai tea, and Nutella.
More options include Tiny Tapp & Café’s flatbreads and local beers, The Northman Beer & Cider Garden’s European atmosphere, and Island Party Hut Tiki Bar & Grill’s frozen cocktails served alongside ping pong and giant Jenga.
The Community Marketplace brings Chicago’s neighborhood flavors to the riverfront through rotating local businesses, letting you sample the city’s diverse food scene in one spot.
Shopping and Strolling the Magnificent Mile
Michigan Avenue’s stretch from the Chicago River to Oak Street draws shoppers with its amazing retail selection. This 13-block shopping paradise, known as the Magnificent Mile, features over 430 retailers, 275 restaurants, and 60 hotels. The shopping district has something for everyone, from designer fashion to affordable souvenirs.
Luxury brands and flagship stores
The Magnificent Mile ranks among the world’s top shopping destinations with three vertical shopping centers as its anchors. The 900 North Michigan Shops sits at the northernmost point, featuring a stunning 184-foot LED canopy. Bloomingdale’s shares space with luxury names like Gucci, Max Mara, and Cartier.
The street showcases several flagship stores worth a visit:
- Burberry: A five-story black chrome store with plaid-etched design displays runway footage on a digital wall.
- Tiffany & Co.: This renowned jeweler creates a luxurious atmosphere with velvet, marble, and polished metal that matches its crystal and rings.
- Apple Store: The riverside location shows off all-glass walls and a steel roof that looks like a MacBook from above.
Water Tower Place adds another multilevel shopping destination with its beautiful eight-level atrium. American Girl Place attracts families by offering a complete doll shopping experience that includes dining and spa treatments for girls and their dolls.
The Shops at North Bridge covers six blocks near the Mile’s southern end with four shopping levels. Nordstrom serves as the anchor store next to designer boutiques like Hugo Boss and Stuart Weitzman.
Seasonal events and art installations
The Mile comes alive with events throughout the year. The annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival stands out as the district’s favorite tradition during the holiday season. The 2024 celebration starts November 23 with activities in Lights Festival Lane and features a tree-lighting parade led by Mickey and Minnie Mouse. A spectacular fireworks display over the Chicago River concludes the evening.
The Iceberg Trail catches art lovers’ attention with six tall icebergs that light up beautifully. The sort of thing I love about this exhibit is how visitors power it themselves – hand-cranking the sculptures activates light displays and music created by Illinois artists.
Michigan Avenue hosts various art displays year-round. Flight of Butterflies displays colorful butterfly sculptures by Chicago artists. The Magnificent Mile Art Festival (June 21-22, 2025) will showcase original works from 60 juried artists.
Hidden gems and local boutiques
Local shops offer some of the Mile’s best discoveries beyond the luxury flagships. Mary Mary Gifts sits just blocks from Michigan Avenue in a century-old brownstone filled with globally sourced treasures.
The historic Wrigley Building houses Semicolon Bookstore – Chicago’s first Black woman-owned bookstore. Colores Mexicanos presents authentic Mexican art, decor, and jewelry. Each item showcases Mexican culture’s rich artistry.
The Silver Room Design Lab in 900 N. Michigan Shops presents art and clothing from local artists, offering a fresh alternative to international brands. Detroit-born Shinola brings Midwestern craftsmanship to its watches, bags, and accessories.
Spirits & Spice in Water Tower Place offers a unique break from traditional shopping. Visitors can sample quality spirits, spices, and oils while finding distinctive gifts.
The Mile continues to grow with new additions planned for 2025, including a major Harry Potter-themed flagship store at 676 N. Michigan Ave. and a Mango clothing store at 664-670 N. Michigan. These new stores show this iconic shopping district’s ongoing development.
River North Nightlife: Where the City Comes Alive
The River North skyline comes alive as the sun sets, turning into a playground for night owls. You’ll find everything from cozy hideaways to packed dance floors. This neighborhood can match any big city’s nightlife scene.
Speakeasies and hidden bars
Chicago’s speakeasies keep the Prohibition-era spirit alive. The Drifter, tucked away under The Green Door Tavern, takes you back to the 1920s. You can find it by walking down the stairs toward the restrooms and looking for a doorknob among shelves filled with knickknacks. The drinks menu changes each night on tarot cards picked from over 100 options. You can enjoy burlesque shows and classic entertainment between drinks.
The Bassment sits beneath The Hampton Social and is a great spot for upscale drinks. A secret door leads to a welcome room where staff pull back a red curtain to reveal a modern lounge. The space draws its style from the 1960s British invasion with gold touches, brick walls, and plush velvet couches.
The Milk Room gives you a close-up experience with just eight seats in an old Prohibition hideout. The bartenders craft strong cocktails using rare spirits. Dorian’s hides its bar behind a real record store – just look for the “Listening Booth” sign, show your ID to the cashier, and you’ll find a room with walls covered in vinyl.
Dance clubs and DJ nights
Sound-Bar leads Chicago’s nightclub scene. This massive 20,000-square-foot space has nine bars on multiple floors, cutting-edge lights, and huge video walls. DJs play the latest hits while dancers in costumes move through the crowd.
Spybar gives you a closer feel at 4,200 square feet. This basement spot with oak floors, black walls, and open rafters made Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of America’s top ten dance clubs. DJ Seth Troxler says it’s “basically the only place I play in Chicago”.
LiqrBox stands out with its three floors and 7,500 square feet of space lit by pulsing lights and street art. The DJs mix top 40, hip-hop, and EDM while people sip on fun drinks – including their famous “adult” juice boxes in neon Zippo-style containers.
A few more spots worth checking out:
- Disco Chicago – Lives up to its name with light-up floors and huge disco balls
- The Underground Chicago – Where Chicago’s elite come to party
- ZED451 – Shows off creative flair in food and setting
Live music and jazz lounges
Andy’s Jazz Club ranks among Chicago’s most loved jazz spots. Shows run daily at 6pm, 8:15pm, and 10:30pm (except Monday/Tuesday when they close at 10pm). Tickets cost $10-$20 based on the night and show time. You can sit in the main area, bar section (21+ only), or grab a high-top bench in the back corner.
Tortoise Supper Club brings you upscale jazz in their stylish, dim lounge on Fridays and Saturdays. Friday shows run 7:30-11pm, while Saturday performances go from 8-11:30pm. You can book dinner seats or just drop in for drinks and music.
Blue Chicago on Clark puts female blues singers center stage. The smooth, soulful music has made this place a local legend. It’s perfect if you want real Chicago blues in a cozy setting.
The Green Mill, Al Capone’s old hangout from the 1920s, features smart bebop and free jazz picked by owner Dave Jemilo. Local favorites Andy Brown and Alfonso Ponticelli play here regularly, with music going until 1:11am (2am on weekends).
River North’s nightlife fits any mood – from old-school speakeasy vibes to dancing until sunrise. The variety packed into this small area makes River North one of Chicago’s most exciting spots after dark.
Top Restaurants to Try in River North
River North stands as a culinary playground that food enthusiasts call home. This neighborhood satisfies every craving with its mix of cozy tapas spots, waterfront seafood venues, and legendary pizza joints. Let me share three must-visit restaurants that showcase this vibrant district’s flavors.
Spanish tapas at Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba! brings authentic Spanish small plates to Chicago’s bustling River North district. This tapas haven, the younger sibling of Lincoln Park’s original location, stays true to its Spanish heritage by serving shareable dishes that bring people together.
The restaurant’s layout creates a perfect social dining atmosphere. Groups of friends, families, and coworkers come here to share good food and conversation in an energetic setting.
Their tapas menu lets you craft your ideal meal. You can share multiple small plates or pick a few tapas before diving into one of their paellas. Here are some crowd favorites:
- Gazpacho Andaluz (the traditional chilled soup from southern Spain)
- Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes with tomato aioli)
- Goat Cheese Baked in Tomato Sauce served with house garlic bread
Note that your visit isn’t complete without trying their classic sangria. Weekend guests can enjoy their Bottomless Sangria Brunch as a fun twist on standard mimosas. Guests love their seasonal sangria variations that pair beautifully with the menu’s bold flavors.
Seafood with a view at RPM
RPM Seafood delivers an impressive multi-level dining experience right on the Chicago River. This upscale spot, through collaboration with Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises and celebrity couple Giuliana & Bill Rancic, rounds out the RPM restaurant family with RPM Steak and RPM Italian.
The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning river views, and seasonal outdoor seating brings you closer to the waterfront. The kitchen’s dedication to quality shines through their seasonal menu of expertly prepared seafood.
These signature dishes deserve your attention:
- Miso Black Cod with wasabi and togarashi ($44)
- Charcoal-Grilled Black Bass with Moroccan spices and salsa verde ($51)
- Maine Lobster Fried Rice with sugar snap peas and ginger ($54)
RPM sets itself apart with spectacular tableside presentations. The Mixed Seafood Grill ($94) arrives in flames, featuring king crab, Spanish octopus, and blue prawn for an unforgettable dining moment.
The King Crab Mac & Cheese with gruyere and fontina cheese ($44) offers a more casual but equally delicious option.
Classic deep-dish at Pizzeria Uno
Pizzeria Uno, the birthplace of Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza, stands as a River North landmark. Back in 1943, Ike Sewell changed pizza history by creating a hearty pie with tall-edged fresh dough, topped with homemade sauce and plenty of cheese.
This bold approach turned pizza from a simple dish into a substantial meal that draws crowds to this day. The original River North location keeps its charming vintage character both inside and out.
The secret to their deep dish lies in the crust’s cornmeal-enhanced dough recipe, which creates its signature taste. Each pie gets made to order, avoiding pre-made crusts.
Fan-favorite pizzas include:
- Chicago Classic (extra sausage, extra cheese)
- Numero Uno (sausage, pepperoni, onions, peppers, mushrooms, chunky tomato sauce, mozzarella, and romano)
- Prima Pepperoni (pepperoni with chunky tomato sauce, mozzarella, and imported pecorino romano)
These three distinctive spots barely scratch the surface of River North’s rich food scene. The neighborhood packs countless dining options to fuel your adventures between other local activities.
Art and Culture in the River North Area
Art lovers flock to River North, and with good reason too. This neighborhood has the largest concentration of art galleries in the United States outside of Manhattan. The 1970s saw artists transform former warehouses into what has now become a vibrant creative hub.
Contemporary galleries worth visiting
River North’s gallery scene thrives around Franklin and Superior Streets’ intersection, within the bounds of Wells, Chicago, Orleans, and Huron Streets. Carl Hammer Gallery stands out with its impressive collection of self-taught American and European artists. Addington Gallery, a 20-year-old fixture on Wells Street, specializes in hot wax paintings.
Art enthusiasts will also love Zolla/Lieberman Gallery with its contemporary art from various genres. Andrew Bae Gallery displays modern works by artists from China, Korea, and Japan. Jean Albano Gallery represents both new and established artists through their paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works.
Free gallery tours start at 714 N Wells Street on most Saturdays. Art lovers can attend opening receptions on the First Friday of alternate months throughout the year.
Public art and installations
The streets themselves serve as an open-air gallery. Art on theMART stands as the world’s largest permanent digital art projection, covering nearly three acres of theMART building’s facade. This riverfront spectacle comes alive each evening with seasonally changing commissioned works.
The Riverwalk features the Vietnam Veterans Memorial where historical events flow into a fountain. Ellen Lanyon’s Riverwalk Gateway showcases 28 ceramic panels that tell Chicago’s story and its connection to the river. Kate Lynn Lewis’ “The Radiance of Being” mural, added recently, celebrates Art Deco architecture’s 100-year legacy.
Museum of Contemporary Art explains
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, a short walk from River North, ranks among the world’s largest contemporary art venues. Its collection has more than 5,700 works, with strong emphasis on surrealism, minimalism, conceptual photography, and Chicago-based artists.
The museum made history by hosting Frida Kahlo’s first U.S. exhibition and Jeff Koons’ first solo museum show. Its impressive collection features works by Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker, and Alexander Calder.
Visitors can join daily tours and dine at Marisol restaurant, run by award-winning chef Jason Hammel. “Tuesdays on the Terrace” brings live music to the outdoor space during warm weather.
Fun and Games: Arcades, Bowling, and More
Looking to rest those tired feet after exploring galleries? River North has plenty of fun spots where you can bowl a perfect game, chase arcade high scores, or kick back with drinks surrounded by classic games.
FTW Chicago and Beercade
FTW Chicago (For The Win) stands out as a top arcade bar destination in the River East neighborhood. This steampunk paradise lets you jump between gaming eras with a mix of classic and modern arcade games. Players can enjoy timeless favorites like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Space Invaders right next to the latest games.
The venue’s Chicago-themed mini golf course features miniature versions of the city’s famous landmarks. You can challenge your friends to intense matches on their four-player air hockey tables. Planning an event? The private rooms can host up to 50 people with custom event packages and food options.
A quick stroll away, Headquarters Beercade takes gaming and drinks to new heights. This massive two-floor space spans 14,000 square feet and houses more than 70 vintage arcade games and pinball machines that you can play free with any purchase. The doors stay open 365 days a year, so you’ll always have access to favorites like NBA Jam, Rampage, and Frogger.
The drink menu features craft beers and creative cocktails. You can recharge between games with American classics like Crispy Chicken Tacos and their famous HQ Burger.
Lucky Strike and other group-friendly spots
Lucky Strike Chicago is downtown’s ultimate entertainment hub with 18 bowling lanes, 6 ping pong tables, 11 billiard tables, and 130 premium arcade games. This upscale 36,000-square-foot bowling and billiards lounge occupies the second floor of River East’s AMC movie complex.
Budget-conscious players should check out their “Night Strike” deal – unlimited bowling for $27.99 (shoes included) starting at 8PM Monday through Thursday and 7PM on Sundays. Wednesdays feature “DOUBLE arcade play” deals all day.
Kids are welcome until 9PM, and families can take advantage of cheaper matinee rates before 6PM. The bowling lanes feature Big Lebowski memorabilia while sports play on big screens throughout the venue.
Punch Bowl Social in Fulton Market rounds out the options with shuffleboard, ping pong, and bowling plus creative cocktails. This 30,000-square-foot spot blends old-school charm with modern fun – perfect for group outings.
River North’s game venues give you endless ways to hang out with friends, bond with coworkers, or enjoy some friendly competition in Chicago’s hippest neighborhood.
Getting Around and Planning Your Visit
River North’s accessibility makes it a fantastic neighborhood to visit. You can get around easily with multiple transport options that help you make the most of your time in this lively Chicago district.
Public transit options
The “L” train system gives you the most budget-friendly way to reach River North from either airport. The Blue Line connects directly to O’Hare for just $5, and the Orange Line takes you to Midway at an even better price of $2.50. Both trains get you downtown nowhere near the time you’d spend stuck in Chicago traffic.
River North has several CTA stations that serve the area:
- The Chicago Metra (Red Line) – You’re just a 7-minute walk from most attractions
- Grand Metra (Red Line) – Shopping areas are a 10-minute walk away
- Merchandise Mart (Brown/Purple Lines) – This station puts you right by the Riverwalk
Busses give you great coverage when places are too far to walk. Routes 3, 22, 36, 65, and 156 link River North to nearby neighborhoods. Most busses come every 10-15 minutes during rush hours. Summer months let you hop on water taxis for a scenic ride between River North, Chinatown and Michigan Avenue.
Best times to visit
Hotel rates hit their lowest from January through March. Chicago Restaurant Week adds some food fun during these quiet winter months. The temperature stays around 30-40°F with a strong wind chill, so pack warm clothes.
Late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) hit the sweet spot with fewer crowds, nice weather, and good prices. Summer months (June-August) bring perfect outdoor weather in the low 80s, but you’ll see more tourists and higher hotel prices.
Tips for first-timers
The “L” trains beat taxis from airports – you save money and time. Museum lovers should take the 146 bus straight to Museum Campus from Michigan Avenue. The 151 bus connects you to Lincoln Park Zoo and Art Institute.
Better rates await when you stay outside downtown and use public transport to reach attractions. A taxi works better than seasonal buses to reach the Museum of Science and Industry, especially in winter.
Pack layers whatever the season. The “Windy City” nickname rings true all year, and temperatures drop by a lot after sunset even in summer.
Discover River North with Metropolitan Shuttle
Experience the best of Chicago’s River North neighborhood with Metropolitan Shuttle, the perfect way to explore the city’s trendiest district with your group of friends or family. Known for its chic galleries, top-tier restaurants, and buzzing nightlife, River North offers something for everyone. Our comfortable, private Chicago shuttle service makes it easy to hop between must-see spots—from upscale steakhouses and rooftop bars to street art-lined alleys and boutique shops—without worrying about logistics. Whether you’re planning a day of cultural exploration or a night out on the town, Metropolitan Shuttle has your group covered.
Conclusion
Experience River North: Where Chicago’s Best Comes Together
River North sparkles as Chicago’s crown jewel. This neighborhood packs art, food, shopping, and nightlife into a walkable district. The area showcases urban revival at its finest – old warehouses now house galleries, industrial spaces have become trendy restaurants, and historic buildings pulse with modern entertainment.
The Chicago Riverwalk beckons for morning walks, while hidden speakeasies like The Drifter promise late-night adventures. River North rewards the spontaneous explorer. Each corner reveals world-class art galleries, iconic spots like Pizzeria Uno, and luxury shopping along the Magnificent Mile.
The sort of thing I love about River North is how easy it is to get around. You can jump from a contemporary art show to tapas at Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba!, browse high-end shops, and end your night with craft cocktails – without calling a single taxi.
Energy buzzes through the streets year-round. The neighborhood really comes alive during spring and fall with perfect weather and smaller crowds. All the same, every season has its charm, from winter’s holiday lights to summer’s riverside dining scenes.
New visitors should plan two days to soak in River North’s spirit. Even Chicago veterans can find something fresh through new gallery shows, seasonal menus, and an evolving nightlife scene.
River North captures Chicago’s essence with its artistic soul, culinary excellence, and urban energy. A Chicago trip feels incomplete without experiencing this neighborhood’s unique character. Your River North adventure awaits!
FAQs
Q1. What are the must-visit attractions in River North, Chicago?
River North offers numerous attractions, including the Chicago Riverwalk, Magnificent Mile for shopping, contemporary art galleries, iconic restaurants like Pizzeria Uno, and vibrant nightlife spots such as speakeasies and dance clubs.
Q2. How can I best explore the art scene in River North?
To explore River North’s art scene, visit the numerous contemporary galleries around Franklin and Superior Streets, check out public art installations like Art on theMART, and consider taking a free gallery tour on Saturdays starting at 714 N Wells Street.
Q3. What dining experiences should I not miss in River North?
Don’t miss trying Spanish tapas at Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba!, seafood with a view at RPM Seafood, and classic deep-dish pizza at Pizzeria Uno. The neighborhood offers a diverse range of culinary experiences from casual to upscale dining.
Q4. What are some fun entertainment options in River North besides dining and shopping?
River North offers various entertainment options including arcade bars like FTW Chicago and Headquarters Beercade, bowling at Lucky Strike, and interactive experiences at venues like Punch Bowl Social. These spots combine games, food, and drinks for a fun night out.
Q5. What’s the best way to get around River North?
River North is highly walkable, but it’s also well-served by public transit. The CTA “L” train (Red, Brown, and Purple lines) and numerous bus routes connect the neighborhood. For a scenic option in summer, consider using water taxis along the Chicago River.
