River West Travel Guide
Chicago
Visit River West
Popular places to visit
Wrigley Field
Tour the iconic grounds and catch a game March through September at Chicago’s beloved baseball stadium.
Naval Base Great Lakes
After visiting Naval Base Great Lakes, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in North Chicago. Wander the lakeside in this family-friendly area.
Navy Pier
A ferris wheel, shopping, restaurants and more can be found in this waterfront entertainment district.
McCormick Place
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.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Millennium Park
A landmark gathering place for locals and visitors who come to admire the unique art, architecture and landscape.
Things to do
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Chicago CityPASS®: Experience 5 must-see attractions
Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission
Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour
Chicago Explorer Pass: Save up to 50 Percent - Includes Skydeck Chicago
Top hotels in River West
Hotel Felix River North/Magnificent Mile
Small room but perfect for one person. Lovely modern bathroom. Good fitness room. Super friendly and helpful front desk staff
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Congress Plaza Hotel
River Hotel
Bar soap was not very effective. Shower curtain leaked water through whole bathroom.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
Was a really nice hotel. My only concerns was the phones in the room didn’t work. No way to call front desk, front people weren’t super helpful and there was no microwave. Rooftop bar and room were excellent
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North
Ac wasn’t great. Street noise from 11th floor was still so so loud.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Club Quarters Hotel, Central Loop, Chicago
I arrived Chicago after 10 AM by train and the hotel staff was so kind to let me check in before 3 PM!
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around River West
River North
Known for its fantastic nightlife, stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in River North. Top attractions like Merchandise Mart and Bally's Casino Chicago are major draws. Catch the metro at Merchandise Mart Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
West Loop
Consider a visit to Milwaukee Avenue and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in West Loop. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Racine Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Near North Side
Known for its fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Near North Side. Top attractions like Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue are major draws. Catch the metro at Clark-Division Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
Downtown Chicago
Known for its fascinating museums, stunning river views and gorgeous architecture, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Chicago. Top attractions like Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue are major draws. Catch the metro at State Station or Clark-Lake Station to see more of the city.
Old Town Chicago
Known for its abundant dining options and lake views, there's plenty to explore in Old Town Chicago. Top attractions like Second City and Armitage Avenue are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Sedgwick Station or Clark-Division Station to see more of the city.
The Loop
Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in The Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Washington Station or Lake Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
