The Chicago River: Not Exactly the Mississippi, But Still Pretty Darn Impressive
Ever looked at a map of Chicago and wondered, "Hey, that river running through downtown seems, well, short? Is that like, a creek or something?" Nope! That, my friend, is the mighty Chicago River, and while it may not be setting any length records, it packs a punch in the history and quirky-facts department.
Short But Mighty: The Truth About the Chicago River's Length
So, how long is the Chicago River? Drumroll please... 156 miles (251 kilometers)! That's not exactly a trickle, folks. Think of it this way: you could kayak the entire length of the river and still have enough energy left to grab a deep-dish pizza afterwards (Chicago priorities, you know?).
Now, granted, that 156 miles includes the entire river system, with its branches snaking north and south. The main stem itself, the one that bisects downtown Chicago, is a more modest 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers). But hey, short and sweet, right? Like a perfectly steamed hot dog (another Chicago staple).
Why the Short Stack Matters More Than You Think
Don't let the Chicago River's length fool you. This little guy played a BIG role in turning Chicago into the metropolis it is today. Here's why:
Flipping the Script: The Great Chicago Reversal Back in the day, the Chicago River actually flowed away from Lake Michigan. But those clever Chicagoans, never ones to shy away from a challenge, reversed the flow of the river with some fancy engineering. Why? To create a shipping route that connected the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River basin, opening up a whole new world of trade (and deep-dish pizza distribution, no doubt).
Liquid Landmarks: The River's Architectural Gems Take a cruise down the Chicago River and you'll be treated to a spectacular display of architectural wonders. Soaring skyscrapers, quaint bridges, and historic buildings all line the banks, making for a truly unique urban experience. It's like a history boat tour, minus the seasickness (hopefully).
Fun Facts About the Chicago River (Because Why Not?)
- Did you know the Chicago River is dyed green every year for St. Patrick's Day? It's a tradition that started in 1952 and has become a beloved symbol of the city's Irish heritage (and festive spirit).
- The Chicago River is home to over 80 species of fish. Not exactly the Amazon rainforest, but hey, at least there's something to keep the tourists entertained while they wait for their deep-dish fix.
So, there you have it! The Chicago River may be on the shorter side, but it's a fascinating waterway with a rich history and a whole lot of personality.
How To Get to Know the Chicago River Better:
How to Kayak the Chicago River?
There are several companies that offer guided kayak tours along the Chicago River. Just be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.
How to See the Chicago River Architecture?
Several architectural boat tours cruise the Chicago River, offering informative commentary on the city's stunning buildings.
How to Experience the Greening of the Chicago River?
Head to downtown Chicago on St. Patrick's Day to witness the dyeing of the river green. Just be prepared for crowds!
How to Learn More About the Chicago River's History?
The Chicago History Museum has a great exhibit on the history of the Chicago River. You can also find tons of information online.
How to Appreciate the Chicago River (Even if You Can't Visit)?
Google it! There are plenty of beautiful photos and videos of the Chicago River online. And hey, maybe one day you'll get to see it for yourself (and grab a deep-dish pizza while you're there).
