(Richard Schneider / Flickr)
Bars, restaurants and other concessions reopening along the Chicago Riverwalk begin Friday, as the city still faces restrictions and closures imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“The Riverwalk is not only an important part of our city’s economic engine, but it also contributes to the vibrancy of our iconic summers,” Mayor Lori Lightfoot said in a statement as she began a phased-in approach until opening.
Island Party Hut, City Winery and Beat Kitchen on the River are the first to welcome guests back along the Riverwalk from April 9, with more businesses to follow on a regular basis in the coming weeks. Officials said full concessions, including boat tours and kayak rentals, should be in place by the end of May.
Following the Chicago Department of Public Health’s guidelines, patrons must maintain a 6-foot social distance, groups will be limited to 10 people, face-covering is required unless they are actively eating or drinking, and patrons must sit. Reservations are not required but are recommended due to limited capacity.
The Chicago Riverwalk stretches 1.25 miles along the main tributary of the Chicago River, from Lake Street to the Lakefront. The path is open daily from 06:00 to 23:00.
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]