The best places to watch the Chicago River dyeing

You'll have to arrive early to get a great spot, but you won't have to shell out any cash for a spectacular view of the river dyeing on the Chicago Riverwalk. For the best views of the festivities, head for the portion of the walkway between Columbus Drive and State Street.

Situated in the middle of Columbus Drive and State Street where the river dyeing action takes place, the Michigan Avenue Bridge is one of the most popular spots to get a view of the festivities. People show up to claim a spot on the bridge extra-early on the morning of the parade, so be prepared to stand on your toes if you roll out of bed late and show up when the dyeing begins.

Gaze down on the western end of the Chicago River dyeing from atop the State Street bridge, which is typically lined with folks snapping pictures of the boats pouring out dye below. The views are free, but as with any other public, river-adjacent space, you'll have to claim your spot early if you want an unobstructed view.

Columbus Drive wins points for its (slight) edge on proximity to the parade route compared to the other nearby river walkways. Once you've had your fill of watching the acid-hued dye flowing into the river, you can sneak out early and simply head south on Columbus Drive to grab a parade-side spot along Balbo Drive in Grant Park.

Watch the river turn green from way up high at LondonHouse Chicago's St. Patrick's Day bash, where guests can imbibe bottomless green beer, dance to a live DJ, snack on breakfast bites and catch stunning views of the river dyeing revelry while atop the hotel's 22nd floor outdoor terrace (or from within the indoor lounge, if you're looking to stay warm). General admission tickets include St. Patty's Day swag, a four-hour open bar, breakfast and access to DJ areas, though you can also spring for VIP tables with bottle service. Tickets are available via Tock.

Looking out from the intersection of State and Wacker, you'll get a great perspective of the River Dyeing at RAISED, located atop the Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel. Each ticket includes breakfast, green beer, cocktails, mimosas and Bloody Marys—and it's just a short walk to the parade in Grant Park. Tickets are available via Tock.

Want to ball out during the St. Patrick's Day river dyeing? Watch the water turn green from RPM Seafood's all-inclusive event, which includes passed appetizers, a brunch buffet, seafood stations and a premium open bar across three floors. Tickets are available via Tock.

Pizza may not be the most traditional thing to eat during a St. Patrick's Day celebration, but who can resist its appeal? Lettuce Entertain You's riverfront restaurant offers great views of the water shifting colors, accompanied by cocktails, passed apps and plenty of 'za. Tickets start at $175—those who want to go all out have the option of reserving a VIP booth or patio table. Tickets are available Tock.

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown is offering two ways for Chicagoans to watch the river dyeing. For those who want an unparalleled view, take the elevator up to the penthouse on the 39th floor for a party that will feature a breakfast buffet, open bar, live DJ and more. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

You can also visit Hoyt's Tavern on the hotel's ground floor and watch the action unfold while sipping on a la carte specialty cocktails and green beer, and snacking on Irish-inspired dishes. Entry is free and you can RSVP here.

Perched on the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago, Miru offer spectacular sights of the Chicago River. On March 16, guests will be able to nosh on classic brunch fare and Japanse bites, and enjoy an open bar and live DJ during the restaurant's four-hour party. General admission tickets, available via Tock, are $150 per person; you can also reserve a VIP booth for you and your friends, which includes unlimited mimosa bottle service.

Snag a spot at Travelle at The Langham's bar and lounge to enjoy art-inspired cocktails and complimentary bar bites while taking in panoramic views overlooking the Chicago River. Reservations, available via Tock, are $150 per person, with the deposit being applied toward the final bill.

The hotel's Grand Ballroom is hosting a lavish ($155 for adults, $75 for kids) river dyeing event, complete with a brunch buffet offering Irish-themed bites and a premium open bar. In addition to sweeping views of the Chicago River, guests will also be treated to performances from the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band and an Irish dance group. The festivities starts bright and early at 8am, but an Irish coffee should help you wake up. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

Chicago's First Lady provides an up-close look at the green river via a series of two-hour St. Paddy's Day-themed Clover Cruises. For $135, you can climb aboard the stately ship and party amid shamrock decor, live bagpipers, Irish-themed cocktails and an open-air deck perfect for peeping the emerald waters below. Plus, all attendees get a corned beef sandwich. Cruises depart between 10am and 2pm. Tickets are available here.

Wendella offers a variety of cruises that allow you to take in the Chicago River dyeing while on the water, including a 21+ curise that includes three drink tickets, a cash bar and a heated lounge to warm up in. Tickets are available here.