The best riverwalks in the U.S. for scenic strolls

With a burgeoning food and drink scene plus a handful of new boutique hotels, it’s no surprise that Detroit is considered among America’s most up-and-coming cities. The Motor City’s International RiverWalk spans over three miles and is popular for running, strolling, and biking. Cullen Plaza has a cafe and tiki bar, a carousel, a bike rental station, and plenty of tables to sit back, relax, and take in the postcard-worthy views. Also, as of this month, the riverwalk has expanded an additional half a mile: This new section, known as Uniworld Promenade, offers access to Belle Isle, a greenery-filled 982-acre island park near downtown.

Although this charming midwestern city is best known for its beer scene, be sure to carve out enough time to explore the aptly named Milwaukee RiverWalk. The waterfront path spans over 3.5 miles and connects three neighborhoods. It's lined with a handful of theaters, along with restaurants, bars, and breweries, including Lakefront Brewery, The Tap Yard, and Vault, to name a few. The River Sculpture! outdoor gallery is also essential for any art lover. On the other hand, adventure enthusiasts can rent a kayak or paddleboard from Clear Water Outdoor, conveniently located on the riverwalk across from the famed Milwaukee Public Market.

No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to the city’s iconic Riverwalk. The 1.25-mile-long path is a destination in and of itself since it truly offers something for everyone, including public art, a museum, boat tours, and kayak rentals. When it comes time to refuel, head to one of many riverfront drinking and dining spots. A few favorites include City Winery (one part restaurant, one part bar and one part entertainment venue), the Northman Beer & Cider Garden, Beat Kitchen, Sweet Home Gelato and Island Party Hut (a fun tropical-inspired tiki bar where you can sip mai tais and more in style). Finally, when it comes time to rest your head, retreat to your room at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk.

This North Carolina port city is halfway between New York and Florida, making for the perfect road trip stop. Plus, it practically oozes southern charm with its historic downtown, beautiful beaches, and down-to-earth ambiance. Spanning nearly two miles, the destination’s namesake Riverwalk features a marina, an outdoor concert venue, and several seafood-forward spots, including The George, Elijah's and Pilot House. Many shops, museums, galleries, bars, and restaurants are also within walking distance. Don’t forget to check out Conlon Pier, where you can go fishing while admiring the sweeping water views. In terms of accommodations, there are a handful of options to choose from along the riverwalk, including Hotel Ballast and Embassy Suites.

Just an hour’s drive from Asheville lies the small city of Greenville, SC. Its tree-lined Main Street, adorable downtown area (complete with a waterfall rushing through it, no less), dozens of year-round events and festivals, and buzzy culinary scene are all especially noteworthy. Art Crossing is among the city’s most impressive attractions, and for good reason. As you can guess by its name, this half-mile stretch along the Reedy River is rich with galleries featuring works from local artists. When hunger calls, head to one of the riverfront restaurants, including local favorites like Papi’s Tacos and The Lazy Goat, in the Hampton Inn & Suites. There’s also an outdoor amphitheater, a splash pad, and ample outdoor seating for taking it all in.

Next time you find yourself in Colorado Springs, consider embarking on a day trip to Pueblo—approximately 45 miles away—to visit the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk. Also known as the Pueblo Riverwalk, this scenic stretch is just over a mile long and is best enjoyed on foot or boat (tours are available year-round). History buffs can visit the El Pueblo History Museum, which features a reconstruction of an 1840s-era adobe plaza and trading post, while art lovers can admire over 60 works along the promenade. Then, sit down for a meal at riverwalk favorites like Brues Alehouse Brewing Co., Twenty One Steak or 1129 Spirits & Eatery.

Located in the heart of San Antonio, the city’s eponymous River Walk is by far its most famous attraction, and it’s best explored on foot, bike or by boat. The 15-mile stretch, sometimes called the Paseo del Rio, is considered the nation’s largest urban ecosystem—and it’s also teeming with historic sites and attractions, including Mission Reach, River Walk Public Art Garden and La Villita Historic Arts Village. Museum Reach is a popular park with three miles of pedestrian paths, more than 70,000 plants and access to the Pearl District, home to many local shops and restaurants. Several hotels, such as Hotel Valencia and Hotel Indigo, can also be found right on the riverwalk.

Tampa has quickly become one of Florida’s trendiest cities, and unsurprisingly, there is plenty to see and do while in town. The 2.6-mile-long riverwalk winds through downtown and is surrounded by some of the destination’s top spots for drinking, dining and shopping. It’s also home to lush parks (Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Kiley Gardens), top-notch museums (Tampa Museum of Art) and entertainment (Ferguson Hall, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Patel Conservatory). Stay close to the center of it all at the Barrymore Hotel, located directly on the promenade.

From the ample outdoor attractions and activities to the abundance of public art, there’s a lot to love about Chattanooga and its Tennesse Riverwalk. This paved trail is ideal for running, biking or walking, and it even offers fishing piers, boat ramps, picnic tables and wide-open green spaces for other outdoor pursuits. The iconic Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge—one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges—connects the riverwalk and the surrounding downtown area with the city’s eclectic North Shore neighborhood. After admiring the many outdoor sculptures along the riverwalk, head to some of the city’s most notable waterfront attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium and the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Think of this three-mile-long, 64-acre park as a greenery-filled oasis in the middle of Boston’s bustling Back Bay neighborhood. It's also where you’ll find some of Beantown’s most Instagrammable views. Learn more about the park on a guided tour, go boating, enjoy a romantic picnic, check out one of the family-friendly playgrounds or explore on your own on foot, bike or rollerblades. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and admire colorful public artwork as you stroll.

Indianapolis has great restaurants, noteworthy attractions and events, including the iconic Indy 500. Visit any time of year to check out the Canal Walk, a three-mile waterfront loop where locals and visitors flock to bike, jog, stroll, or simply bask in the city views. Kids will love the Indianapolis Colts Canal Playspace, while history-loving grown-ups can head to the Indiana Historical Society museum. Afterward, grab a bite along the water at Fresco Italian Cafe on the Canal before heading to your room at the Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown on the Canal to recharge.