This small museum tells the water-rich history of Chicago, which today has more moveable bridges than any city. The rapid growth of Chicago wouldn’t have been possible without its position on the river, where boats could haul goods in and out on a regular basis, solidifying the Midwestern city’s instrumental role in farming, agriculture and other industries. In addition to a history lesson, museum visitors will get to explore five floors of a historic bridgehouse, and stand on an observation deck beneath the Michigan Avenue Bridge, where you can see the enormous gears that make it mobile. This bridge opens nearly 40 times a year, between April and November, to allow river traffic to pass through, and for $10 you can reserve a spot to see it happen. (Check the museum’s website for upcoming dates.)
Chicago› Attraction
McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
376 N Michigan Ave. (at the Chicago River), Chicago, IL 60601
Our Rating
Hours
May–Nov: Fri–Mon 10am–5pm, Thurs Noon–7pm. See website for exact dates and tour hours.
Transportation
Subway/El: Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, or Purple Line to Randolph, or Red Line to Lake
Phone
312/977-0227
Prices
Admission $6, seniors, students, and children 6–12 $5, free for children 5 and under. Free on Sundays.
Web site
McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

Map
376 N Michigan Ave. ChicagoNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.