It's History

Chicago's Lost Amusement Park - The Downfall of Riverview (8x259)

: 15, 2024

River View Amusement Park, once a vibrant entertainment destination nestled along the banks of the Chicago River, held sway over the city's amusement scene from 1904 to 1967. Established by amusement impresario William Schmidt, River View enchanted generations of Chicagoans with its thrilling rides, carnival games, and lively entertainment. Boasting attractions like the Silver Flash roller coaster and the iconic Flying Turns, River View became a cherished summer escape. However, as urban development encroached and attendance dwindled, the park closed its gates in 1967. Though River View's physical presence has long vanished, its legacy endures in the hearts and memories of those who experienced its magic, while echoes of its heyday linger in Chicago's cultural landscape.