5 Ways to Get out on the Water in Chicago

One of the best ways to see the city of Chicago is from the water. We’re surrounded by it. The Chicago River encircles the Loop while the waters of Lake Michigan lap at our eastern shore. From May to November there are several ways to get on out the waters, for fitness and fun, for drinking and dancing, or for learning more about the city. Here are some of the best options.

Kayaking the Chicago River and Lake Michigan

Get out on the water while you get fit, with a kayak lesson or tour on the Chicago River. Tours are offered for every skill level and include architectural tours, night paddles and sunset tours, and stand-up paddleboards can be rented at Montrose Beach. The architectural tour lasts about 3 hours and costs $69. Single kayaks rent for $30 per hour, or $90 for a full day. Double kayaks are also available.

Architectural River Tours

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise is one of the city’s best sightseeing tours. In addition to seeing the city from another angle on the Chicago River, you’ll learn all about our fascinating history and learn the stories behind each of the beautiful skyscrapers than line the River. Tours run from mid-March through November, cost from about $57 and last about 90 minutes.

Water Taxi

The water taxi isn’t just a neat way to get out on the Chicago River, it’s also a main form of transportation for many people during the summer months. The water taxi runs from Michigan Avenue to Chinatown, with a stop at Ogilvie/Union in the West Loop. A one-way ticket is $10.

Lake cruises

A Lake cruise is by far the most posh, relaxing way to take in the city skyline away from shore. Shoreline Sightseeing is one of the more popular companies. It offers Lake cruises through the summer season. Mystic Blue also offers lunch, brunch and dinner cruises from Navy Pier with meals and a DJ on board.

Sailing lessons

Chicago has the largest municipal harbor system in the US and many people choose to keep speedboats, sailboats and yachts here for summer boating. If you aren’t lucky enough to have a friend with a boat, you can still get out on a sailboat with a sailing lesson or boat rental. The Chicago Yacht Club runs adult learn-to-sail courses at Belmont Harbor from spring through fall, and you don’t need to be a member to sign up.

Photo by: Caribbeanfreephoto