Things to do in Riverside

Activities, attractions and tours

Chicago_BrookfieldZoo_6064025_08
Chicago_BrookfieldZoo_6064025_08
Although the zoo has a butterfly habitat each summer, I find some of my best shots strolling through the park.
Brookfield zoo
Authentic polish smorgasbord. They have ghost tours followed by a meal, too.
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Top places to visit

1. Wrigley Field

Home of the legendary Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field is known and loved by baseball fans from all over the world, many of whom flock here to see a match or simply soak up the history and the atmosphere. One of the oldest and most storied ballparks across America, Wrigley Field has a proud heritage dating back all the way to 1914.
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Wrigley Field showing a city and landscape views

2. McCormick Place

McCormick Place is both the biggest convention center in Chicago and the biggest one anywhere in the U.S. This vast, sprawling complex is an impressive feat of architecture and engineering that was founded well over half a century ago. Attend an event here to get a sense of its incredible scale.
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McCormick Place showing a high rise building and a city

3. Navy Pier

Well over eight million visitors flock to Navy Pier every year, whiling away the Chicago days in the parks, shops and restaurants gathered on this expansive corner of Lake Michigan. The pier is open throughout the year, but it peaks in the summer when you can visit the open-air souvenir stalls and watch the weekly firework shows.
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Navy Pier featuring a sunset and rides

4. Millennium Park

Set in 10 hectares of parkland in the central Loop area, Millennium Park is a popular destination for local Chicago folk and visitors, ideally situated close to other major attractions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Magnificent Mile. With so much space to wander and soak up the atmosphere, it is a perfect spot for a bit of biking or jogging. It’s also used as a site for many big concerts that come to the city.
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Reflection of a Chicago buildings in a mirror of Chicago Bean, Millennium Park, Chicago city, USA., Shutterstock ID 1129809965, Purchase Order: SP-2109, Order Number: SP-2109 Qantas AU US Sale New Ads

5. Soldier Field

Soldier Field has been one of Chicago’s most well-known landmarks since its construction in 1924 and is the oldest NFL stadium in the country.
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Soldier Field showing landscape views and a city

6. Chicago Riverwalk

Get a sense of the culture and character of the Windy City by wandering along the Chicago Riverwalk. This scenic stretch of the city follows the banks of the Chicago River from near the edge of Lake Michigan through Downtown to where the river splits. As you follow the walkway, pass impressive bridges, fascinating museums and trendy dining spots.
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Chicago Riverwalk which includes a high rise building, a ferry and a river or creek

What to do in Riverside

Popular places to visit

Scene of Chicago street bridge with traffic among modern buildings of Downtown Chicago at Michigan avenue in Chicago, Illinois, United States, Business and Modern Transportation concept

Michigan Avenue

4.5/5(14 reviews)

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Michigan Avenue
Wrigley Field which includes a sporting event, city views and a city

Wrigley Field

4.5/5(40 reviews)

Chicago’s world-renowned baseball ground, Wrigley Field is an iconic stadium where you can learn about the all-American sport and even catch a game.

Wrigley Field
McCormick Place showing a high rise building and a city

McCormick Place

4.5/5(36 reviews)

Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.

McCormick Place
Navy Pier featuring a sunset and rides

Navy Pier

4/5(125 reviews)

A waterfront entertainment strip with fun diversions for both young and old, with shops, restaurants and even a Ferris wheel.

Navy Pier
Millennium Park showing street scenes, fall colors and modern architecture

Millennium Park

4.5/5(147 reviews)

One of Chicago’s main focal points, where locals and visitors flock to see the striking art, architecture and landscape on show.

Millennium Park
Soldier Field featuring a skyscraper, modern architecture and a city

Soldier Field

4/5(44 reviews)

Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.

Soldier Field
Chicago Riverwalk which includes a river or creek, a city and a bay or harbor

Chicago Riverwalk

4.5/5(29 reviews)

Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.

Chicago Riverwalk
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United Center

4.5/5(15 reviews)

Catch an event at United Center during your trip to Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's lakeside or experience its entertainment choices.

United Center
Grant Park showing a garden and night scenes

Grant Park

4.5/5(96 reviews)

Chicago’s front yard is a pretty landscaped park, which is home to public art displays, museums, themed gardens and international music festivals.

Grant Park
Although the zoo has a butterfly habitat each summer, I find some of my best shots strolling through the park.

Brookfield

www.alamy.com

Oak Park

Chicago showing a skyscraper and a city as well as a family

Chicago

Frequently asked questions

Is Riverside worth visiting?
Riverside offers an interesting mix of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or regional cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Riverside?
After you've visited top attractions like Brookfield Zoo and Galloping Ghost, spend the rest of your day discovering Riverside's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Riverside?
Don't leave without exploring Brookfield Zoo, rated the top tourist attraction in Riverside.
Is three days enough to stay in Riverside?
Three days in Riverside is enough to enjoy the city's leading attractions. Many travellers spend two days on average. Brookfield Zoo, Galloping Ghost and Madison Street Theatre are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Chicago.
Is Riverside a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you plan to see and do in Riverside. Several key attractions, such as Brookfield Zoo and Galloping Ghost, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Riverside's best neighbourhoods, North Riverside is 0.97 kilometres away from downtown, while Stickney is 3 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Riverside with kids?
If you are after sights and activities for all the family, have a look at these fantastic ideas for what to do in Riverside with kids.

What to do in Riverside for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Riverside, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Credit Union 1 Arena or Resurrection Cemetery & Mausoleums.
Are there free things to do in Riverside?
From visiting parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Riverside. If you need inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. Galloping Ghost is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.

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