Union Station is on the west side of the Chicago River. These visits head toward the Loop, with walking time allowed for the station exit and downtown crossings.
Times to reach each place are planning allowances from the station, not measured routes. Check directions, opening hours and accessibility before you go.
Walk a section of the riverfront promenade for views of downtown buildings, bridges and the working river.
25 min walking allowance each way1h 15m suggested visit
The city lists daily public access from 6 AM to 11 PM. Temporary closures, ice or high water can affect individual sections; outdoor visits in the planner use a daytime window.
The allowance reaches the western Riverwalk near Lake Street, not the lakefront end. Choose an appropriate stair or ramp access; boat tours, restaurants and concessions have separate seasonal schedules.
Source checked 2026-11-06. Times are planning allowances.culture
Chicago Cultural Center
Look up at the stained-glass domes and explore changing exhibitions in the city's former central library.
35 min walking allowance each way1h 15m suggested visit
The city publishes daily 10 AM to 5 PM building hours; exhibitions close at 4:45 PM. It also says the building closes on holidays without a complete dated closure list. Confirm hours for your date; this guide does not mark them as verified.
General admission is free. Rooms can be unavailable during events, and tours or performances follow their own schedules.
