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Audio guide

Chicago Riverwalk

Chicago's Second Shoreline and Engineering Marvel

Chicago Riverwalk

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Welcome to the Chicago Riverwalk

1m 15s

Chicago Riverwalk • Section 1 of 5

Welcome to the Chicago Riverwalk, a vibrant one point two five mile long pedestrian trail that stretches along the south bank of the Chicago River from Lake Michigan to Lake Street. You are currently standing in what locals call Chicago's Second Shoreline, a sunken urban canyon that offers a completely different perspective of the city away from the busy street traffic of Wacker Drive above. As you walk, notice how you are literally beneath the street grid, nestled between crystal clear water and some of the world's most famous skyscrapers. This space was once an industrial shipping lane, but today it is home to nature, art, and leisure.[2] It serves as a living museum, showcasing how a city can reinvent its relationship with its natural environment.[3] Take a breath and let the energy of the river guide you as we explore the stories etched into these steel and stone walls.

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Quick answer

What does this Chicago Riverwalk audio guide explain?

Welcome to the Chicago Riverwalk, a vibrant one point two five mile long pedestrian trail that stretches along the south bank of the Chicago River from Lake Michigan to Lake Street. You are currently standing in what locals call Chicago's Second Shoreline, a sunken urban canyon that offers a completely different perspective of the city away from the busy street traffic of Wacker Drive above.

Inside this guide

  1. 01Welcome to the Chicago RiverwalkWelcome to the Chicago Riverwalk: Welcome to the Chicago Riverwalk, a vibrant one point two five mile long pedestrian trail that stretches along the south bank of the Chicago River from Lake Michigan to Lake Street.
  2. 02The Impossible River: A Feat of EngineeringThe Impossible River: A Feat of Engineering: One of the most fascinating things about the water you are walking beside is that it is flowing the wrong way.
  3. 03Concrete Corn and Glazed GemsConcrete Corn and Glazed Gems: As you look up, you will see a masterclass in architectural history. Perhaps the most striking buildings are the twin cylinders of Marina City, often nicknamed the corn cobs because of their unique shape and the sixty five stories of outdoor balconies.
  4. 04The Six Civic RoomsThe Six Civic Rooms: The Riverwalk is not just a path; it is divided into six distinct rooms, each with its own theme and personality.
  5. 05Before You Head OffBefore You Head Off: Your journey along the Chicago Riverwalk does not have to end at the next bridge. As evening approaches, keep an eye on the side of the massive Merchandise Mart building across the water.

Common questions

What does this free Chicago Riverwalk audio guide include?

It covers Welcome to the Chicago Riverwalk, The Impossible River: A Feat of Engineering, Concrete Corn and Glazed Gems, and The Six Civic Rooms, with practical context and details to notice during the visit.

What should I notice first at Chicago Riverwalk?

Start with Welcome to the Chicago Riverwalk. The guide then connects The Impossible River: A Feat of Engineering, Concrete Corn and Glazed Gems, and The Six Civic Rooms to the place, so you know what to look for on site.

What can I ask Mappu after this Chicago Riverwalk guide?

You can continue with follow-up questions such as "How exactly did they manage to reverse the flow of the entire river in nineteen hundred?", then keep the guide connected to your map and trip plan.