Historic Chicago River Swim Returns to The Loop After 98-Year Hiatus

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/The Loop · December 3, 2025

The City of Chicago has officially approved the 2025 Chicago River Swim (CRS), marking the first open water swim in the Chicago River in 98 years. This historic event represents a significant milestone for downtown Chicago, showcasing the ongoing revitalization of the waterway that winds through the heart of The Loop.

"Late summer and early fall continued the year's trend of energy and investment in the Loop. This report showcases how economic activity, cultural programming, and infrastructure shifts are shaping the Loop's next chapter," noted Michael Edwards, President & CEO of Chicago Loop Alliance. The event adds to the vibrant mix of over 30 new dining experiences and retail stores that have recently opened or are set to open in The Loop in 2025, contributing to downtown's continued renaissance. Residents and visitors alike can witness this historic return to the Chicago River while exploring the neighborhood's evolving landscape of cultural offerings and urban amenities.

Sources:
1. https://loopchicago.com/in-the-loop/
2. https://loopchicago.com/in-the-loop/arts-and-culture-continue-to-charge-loops-economic-engine