February 17, 2012 – After 24 hours in the McCormick Bridgehouse near Michigan Avenue, Friends of the Chicago River is hoping its overnight guests will leave with an experience worth sharing.

The nonprofit organization announced on Thursday a contest that will put four people up for the night at the five-story bridgehouse that rises from river level to tower over the DuSable Bridge.

The winner and three friends will check into the Chicago River Museum on May 4, have dinner at Hoyt’s across Wacker Drive at Hotel 71, breakfast the next morning at Corner Bakery Café nearby, take a cruise along the river aboard a Wendella boat, a guided tour by kayak, and watch up close a city crew raise the DuSable Bridge.

“In addition to bragging rights for the coolest pad in town,” reads a news release, “the winner will also become the river’s most visible ambassador during their stay.” (Left) McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum in June 2009.

Contestants are asked to submit a short essay about “their hopes for the Chicago River’s future and how they will share their experience to help thousands of people discover the Chicago River through their eyes.”

Entries must be received by March 15. Anyone in the United States may enter.

On April 23, Friends of the Chicago River will begin 20 days of celebration leading up to the organization’s 20th annual Chicago River Day. A full calendar of events, ranging from a “pub crawl” to a fish release, will be available on March 28.

The Bridgehouse Museum’s 2012 season officially begins on May 11 with the release of baby bluegill fish, symbolizing the return of wildlife to the Chicago River.

 More information: Chicago River Day 20/20