Chicago River: Quick Facts

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The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Nov. 4, 2026

News •

Despite Trump’s harsh rhetoric toward Chicago, he’s held significant private investments in the region • Nov. 2, 2026, 6:30 AM ET (Chicago Sun-Times)

Billions of gallons of raw sewage are pouring into the Chicago River after storms • Oct. 30, 2026, 6:30 AM ET (Chicago Sun-Times)

Salt Shed owners look to expand footprint along Chicago River's North Branch • Oct. 22, 2026, 3:00 AM ET (CBS)

Photos and Videos

river and buildings in downtown Chicago

Chicago Riverwalk

Map of the Chicago area waterway system showing the flow of water from Lake Michigan through the Chicago River, which connects via the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal to the Des Plaines River, then to the Illinois River, and ultimately to the Mississippi River. The map highlights major waterways, channels, and the cities of Chicago and Joliet, with an inset showing the broader river system in Illinois and its connection to the Mississippi River.

Chicago River bridge

Chicago River bridges

Split map comparing the flow of the Chicago River before and after the construction of the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. The left side shows the river flowing into Lake Michigan before 1900, while the right side shows the reversed flow, with the river now directed away from the lake and into the canal, connecting to the Des Plaines River and ultimately leading toward Joliet. An inset map highlights the location within Illinois.

Eastland disaster

Hand-drawn map showing the mouth of the Chicago River meeting Lake Michigan, with labeled features, plotted land, and proposed piers extending into the lake.

The vidoe thumbnail image shows a two-sided bridge lifting and separating at the center. A blue circle highlights the open section.

The video thumbnail image shows a black and white bridge over blue water. Blue arrows show that the flow of the water was switched from one direction to the other.

One of America's worst maritime disasters: The SS Eastland

Learn about the economic value of the Chicago River

See recovery workers righting the capsized Eastland in the Chicago River, 1915

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Topics

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water glass on white background. (drink; clear; clean water; liquid)

Water and its Varying Forms

Tower Bridge over the Thames River in London, England. Opened in 1894. Remains an Important Traffic Route with 40,000 Crossings Every Day.

Guess the City by Its River Quiz