Things to do in Riverside

Activities, attractions and tours

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Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Wrigley Field

Fans of baseball know Wrigley Field as the long-time home of the Chicago Cubs. Built in 1914, this is one of the oldest and best-known ballparks in the US. Some of the most memorable moments in baseball history have been played out here, including Babe Ruth’s now famous “called shot” in 1932 during the World Series. He allegedly pointed to the bleachers, predicting that he’d hit a home run, and then did. Legendary Cubs player Ernie Banks nicknamed the stadium "The Friendly Confines" because fans were wild about their team and ballpark. Catch a game and mingle with the passionate locals if you’re in town March through September.
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An aerial view of a baseball stadium surrounded by urban buildings.

2. Navy Pier

Navy Pier draws more than 8.6 million visitors each year. It has rides, restaurants, shops, parks and boat tours, all within a 50-acre pier on Lake Michigan. Open year-round, it’s busiest in the summer months when there are open-air stalls selling souvenirs and weekly firework displays.
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A Ferris wheel and a carousel at a fairground.

3. 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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A large stadium surrounded by a cityscape with modern buildings.

4. 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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A river with boats, surrounded by tall buildings and a clear sky.

5. 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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A modern cityscape with tall buildings, a clear sky, and a tree-lined street.

6. Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a 25-acre (10 hectare) park in the central Loop. Locals and tourists gather year-round for concerts, biking and jogging, and to admire the sculptures dotting the landscape. Conveniently located near other attractions, it’s easy to combine a walk through the park with a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago or shopping along the Magnificent Mile.
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A cityscape with modern skyscrapers and the Cloud Gate sculpture.

What to do in Riverside


Stay near popular Riverside attractions

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?
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.