Are there alligators in the Chicago River?
Are there alligators in the Chicago River? Alligators, otters, beavers and rusty crayfish have all made the river their home.
Is the Chicago River safe to swim in?
Is the Chicago River Safe to Swim in? Unfortunately, despite all of these efforts, we still do not recommend taking a dip in the Chicago River. The water quality has improved drastically since the 1970s, but the waterways still face challenges. Much less litter pollutes the banks, but unseen dangers still lie below.