I recently visited Chicago for the first time, a city that has been on my wish list for years, and mostly due to it’s renowned architecture. The Riverwalk is a 1.25 mile path along the beautiful Chicago River, where it is flanked by some of the city’s most striking architectural treasures. I started opposite The Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower and peeled off when I was just about at the Merchandise Mart. I went early in the morning, around 8:30am, which was perfect as it wasn’t crowded at all. The Riverwalk is a delight to photograph, with lots of great vantage points set up along the path as it winds its way along the river.

I’d seen photos of the Chicago River, but always assumed the brilliant shade of aqua was a gift from Photoshop. I could barely believe my eyes when I saw it in IRL, especially as it’s running through the middle of the third-largest city in the United States. I think it helps that it flows into the enormous Lake Michigan. It was a great introduction to the city, as well as a really calming way to start the day.

I would have loved to take one of the Chicago Architectural River Cruises, but I was a little short on time that morning, and was happy to settle with going at my own pace on the riverbanks.

In Photos is a series I run on this blog to share my favourite photos from a particular place, for example spring cherry blossoms in Central Park in New York or the perfectly preserved Cotswolds village Lacock, in the UK. click here. For more practical Chicago guides, stay tuned!

Have you been to Chicago? Would you like to?

Genevieve Lauren

Hello! I’m an Australian travel blogger, living in Melbourne, Australia. I grew up in Brisbane, studied in Paris, lived & worked in New York City and now live in Melbourne, Australia.

I love sharing specific and useful recommendations, itineraries and guides for the most beautiful things to see, do, experience & eat wherever I go.

My favourite travel destinations are Australia, New York City & surrounds, France, Greece & Japan, but I’m always excited to explore somewhere new!

The Wanderbug is reader supported. This site may contain links to affiliate websites, which means when you buy through links on this site I may receive a small affiliate commission at no cost to you. Thank you for your support!