We all know Chicago loves to go all out with their annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Recognized throughout the entire country, this Chicago tradition goes back fifty-years as a team from the Plumber Union uses two to three motorboats to pour about 50 pounds of powdered dye into the river, dyeing it emerald green.
Whether you prefer standing amongst the riverside crowds or catch a breathtaking view from a rooftop bar above, here is a list of the perfect spots to catch this annual event starting at 9am on Saturday, March 14th.
Chicago Riverwalk
With the iconic dyeing of the Chicago river starting at 9am, it’s evident you’ll have to arrive bright and early to get a good spot to view the river. The best part though is you won’t have to spend a dime to watch this event from the Chicago Riverwalk. For the perfect spot with the best views of the festivities head to the walkway between State Street and Columbus Drive.
Michigan Avenue Bridge
Located right in the middle of the river where all the action takes place, Michigan Avenue Bridge is the perfect and most crowded spot to look over the river. Be sure to give yourself enough time to secure a good spot to view the event as this bridge sure does fill up quickly.
Pizzeria Portofino
Start off St. Patrick’s day at Pizzeria Portofino where it always feel like summer on the riverfront. Starting at 8am it’s never too early to enjoy a morning pizza while sipping on signature cocktails along the Chicago River. General admission tickets start at $45.
Island Party Hut
Up for a fun filled Tiki bar and grill located on the Chicago River walk with live music and games? Yes please! The Island Party Hut opens just in time for all the St. Patrick’s Day festivities on March 14th at 9am. For only $45 you will have early access to the Tiki bar and Grill and which also covers your first drink.
LondonHouse
What better way to see the magnificent Chicago river being dyed than with front row seats at the LondonHouse Rooftop while sipping green beer. From 8am-12pm the LondonHouse is offering a premium open bar with the choice of hanging out on either the 21st floor indoor lounge or the outdoor rooftop with complimentary St. Patty’s Day swag and bottomless green beer + breakfast bites. Tickets start at $150.
Seadog Cruises
Sure, it’s awesome to experience the river dyeing from a rooftop above or beside it on the river walk but how about watching it happen right on the Chicago River while on the Seadog cruise. Cruising to Irish tunes 15 minutes before the dye hits the water and seeing the transformation itself is the ultimate river dyeing experience you don’t want to miss out on.