Map of Riverview Park Showing Picnic Groves & Parking Lots Chicago, Illinois

“Laugh Your Troubles Away!” at Riverview Park in Chicago.

For many of those who remember Riverview, it’s perhaps best known for its intense roller coasters, lax security policies, and as the birthplace of the footlong hot dog. This amusement park along the north branch of the Chicago River operated from 1904 to 1967 in the area now occupied by DeVry University and Richard Playlot Park. Originating in the late 1800s as a skeet shooting park, a carousel was added to entertain ladies accompanying the shooters and the park continued to expand through the first half of the 20th century.

This map shows the park in the early 1950s, adjacent to the Lane Tech Athletic fields on the corner of Western and Belmont. Rides are individually drawn and labeled, and range from the thrilling Bobs roller coaster to the more adult-themed beer garden and casino. An inset map in the lower right provides local transportation instructions via car, bus, elevated rail, and surface line. A whimsical compass rose, emblematic of fond childhood memories, can be seen in the upper left. Printed in Chicago by the Carl Gorr Printing Company, which continues to operate today.