(Richard Schneider / Flickr)
Bars, restaurants and other concessions are reopening along the Chicago Riverwalk, beginning Friday, as the city continues to emerge from 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 adds to the liveliness of our iconic summers,” Mayor Lori Lightfoot said in a statement, as she announced the beginning of a phased-in approach to opening.
Island Party Hut, City Winery and Beat Kitchen on the River are the first to welcome back guests along the Riverwalk, as of Friday, with more businesses to follow on a rolling basis in the coming weeks. The full complement of concessions, including boat tours and kayak rentals, should be up and running by the end of May, officials said.
Following guidelines from the Chicago Department of Public Health, patrons must maintain social distancing of 6 feet, groups will be limited to 10 people, face coverings are required except for when actively eating or drinking, and patrons must remain seated. Reservations are not required but are recommended due to limited capacity.
The Chicago Riverwalk stretches for 1.25 miles along the Main Branch of the Chicago River from Lake Street to the Lakefront. The path is open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]