River North and its surrounding areas offer an impressive array of outdoor activities that let you stay active while enjoying Chicago’s urban landscape. Here’s your guide to making the most of outdoor recreation in the neighborhood.
Chicago Riverwalk Activities
The 3.4-mile waterfront walkway serves as the neighborhood’s outdoor fitness hub. The best times to visit are:
- Early mornings (6-8 AM) for peaceful running and walking
- Mid-morning for kayaking adventures
- Late afternoon for people-watching and casual strolls
Kayaking
Urban Kayaks offers both guided tours and rentals, with the calmest waters typically found in early morning hours. The entire Riverwalk section provides stable waters perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Water Activities
The neighborhood’s proximity to Lake Michigan opens up numerous possibilities:
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Jet skiing
- Water yoga classes
- Boat tours
For water sports, weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, while weekends see peak activity.
Fitness and Recreation
The 606 Trail
This elevated 2.7-mile path is perfect for:
- Running
- Cycling
- Rollerblading
- Skateboarding
Best times to visit are weekday mornings before 9 AM or weekday evenings after 6 PM to avoid crowds.
Seasonal Activities
Summer Highlights
- Beach volleyball at Ohio Street Beach (best during weekday evenings)
- Outdoor yoga sessions in Montgomery Ward Park (morning classes are less crowded)
- Architectural boat tours (sunset tours offer the best photo opportunities)
Winter Options
- Ice skating at local rinks
- Winter running along the heated sections of the Riverwalk
- Snowshoeing in nearby parks when conditions permit
The neighborhood’s central location makes it easy to incorporate outdoor activities into your daily routine, whether you’re a dedicated athlete or just looking to stay active while enjoying Chicago’s urban landscape.
