Photos from the River walk?
The Riverwalk isn’t just a beautiful location; it’s packed with personality. There’s something cool about the way the skyscrapers rise up from the water’s edge, creating a backdrop that’s both romantic and bustling with life. You can see it with kayakers paddling by, river cruises giving city tours, and a steady stream of people taking in the views from cafés and benches along the path.
Taking photos here can feel like you’re sharing a part of Chicago’s story.
Top Spots on the Riverwalk for Stunning Photos
- The DuSable Bridge (Michigan Avenue Bridge): Locals know this as one of the city’s most photographed spots, and for good reason. The bridge itself has stunning architecture, and it offers unbeatable views of the river in both directions. Get a few shots with the city’s iconic Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower.
- The River Theater: This section of the Riverwalk near Clark Street has a series of wide, cascading steps that double as seating areas. The stairs lead right down to the water, on sunny days, you’ll even catch locals relaxing and enjoying the view.
- The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza: Located on Wacker Drive between State and Lake. The shaded pathways, open plaza, and views of the surrounding buildings make it ideal for a quieter, more intimate moment in your photo session.
Your Riverwalk Shoot and things you should know
- Use the Bridges to Change Perspectives: Chicago’s bridges are one of the city’s best-known features, and each one along the Riverwalk offers a different view of the skyline. Locals know the Kinzie Street Bridge for its industrial charm and less crowded feel—it’s a great place to catch the sun setting over the city.
- Lots of foot traffic : The Riverwalk is a place where you’ll see locals jogging, strolling, and even grabbing an after-work drink by the water. You may have quit a few moments of pause while people walk through your shot. So bring patience with you.
- Catch the City Lights: The Riverwalk truly shines after dark, when the city lights reflect off the water and the buildings glow in every direction. This can be an opportunity to make your photos unique for sure.
Nearby Chicago Gems to Add to Your Photo Session
Once you’ve gotten all your Riverwalk shots, the convenience of this area is the variety of other spots you can take advantage of. Such as a quick trip to Millennium Park for more classic shots with the skyline.
You can take an Uber up to North Avenue Beach which is only a few miles away and gives you lakefront views with the skyline in the background. These spots add variety to your session and show off the different sides of Chicago that locals know and love.
The Riverwalk: Capture Chicago’s Unique Blend of City and Scenery
It’s a space that brings together everything that makes the city special: from the urban architecture to the calming river, from the lively crowds to those quiet, tucked-away spots. Your photos will have that Chicago charm that locals recognize instantly.