YES…it seems that there is a light at the end of the COVID tunnel

Life as we knew (circa 2019) is returning, big time, with today’s announcement from Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot that the City is reopening the Chicago Riverwalk dining venues.

Starting today, the City will begin a phased-in approach to vendor reopening, allowing for full service by the end of May. (In accordance with guidance from the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), social distancing and face covering).

“The Riverwalk is not only an important part of our city’s economic engine, but it also adds to the liveliness of our iconic summers,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “That’s why I am especially thrilled to announce its concessions program is reopening earlier than any other previous season.”  

Vendors in the concession program will start operating in phases with Island Party Hut, Beat Kitchen on the River and City Winery reopening today, April 9. 

In the subsequent weeks, the following vendors will reopen on a weekly/bi-weekly basis: 

• Northman Beer & Cider Garden 
• Chicago Brewhouse  
• Tiny Tapp & Café  (formerly Tiny Hatt)
• Mercury Cruise lines & Chicago’s First Lady Cruises 
• Downtown Docks 
• Chicago Electric Boats  
• Chicago Cycleboats 
• Sweet Home Gelato 
• O’Brien’s Riverwalk Café  
• Urban Kayaks 

Also, Pier 31 on the Riverwalk will begin operations for the first time this May. To view the full reopening schedule and list of participating vendors, please visit www.chicagoriverwalk.us. 

About the Riverwalk 

The Chicago Riverwalk provides a 1.25-mile continuous path along the Main Branch of the Chicago River from Lake Street to the Lakefront. The path is open from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. every day. For more information about the Chicago Riverwalk, please visit www.chicagoriverwalk.us.