Explore the River’s Story with a Guided Tour

The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum is offering guided tours this summer and fall, inviting visitors to explore the fascinating history and transformation of the Chicago-Calumet River system from inside the landmark bridgehouse on Chicago’s Riverwalk. Celebrating its 20 anniversary this year, more than 400,000 people have visited the Bridgehouse Museum and its captivating exhibits over the past two decades. 

Led by trained museum staff, the 60-minute tours take guests through all five stories of the museum, including the massive gear room that powers the historic DuSable Bridge. Along the way, visitors will hear stories beyond the exhibits, learn how the river system evolved alongside the city, and discover how decades of restoration and water-quality improvements helped create a healthier river teeming with wildlife today.

Tours are offered Wednesdays through Sundays from June through October at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Each tour is limited to 10 participants to provide an engaging and interactive experience.

Located in the southwest bridgehouse of the historic DuSable Bridge on Michigan Avenue, the museum is housed inside a landmark structure and does not have an elevator. Tours involve climbing five flights of narrow stairs, though benches are available on each level for resting. Alternative accessible tours of the first floor and gear room can be arranged by contacting the museum staff. A new grant from Service Club Chicago will enhance the opportunity to view all the exhibits virtually from a kiosk on the accessible first floor and benches for the floors above.

Tickets are $15 per person. Register at bridgehousemuseum.org.