Humboldt Park neighbors, myself included, were crushed to hear the swan boats flew the coop last week. The paddleboats had graced the lagoon since 2018 and lent a charming air to the body of water which once housed a literal alligator. (Remember Chance?!)
But luckily for us Chicagoans, there are still plenty of water and boat activities to enjoy as the season heats up.
On the River
The Water Taxi
Chicago Water Taxi season is officially upon us! Rides run daily from May through September, and stops include Ogilvie, Michigan Avenue, and Chinatown. It’s $10 for a one-way ticket, and $20 for a day pass.
BYOB Boats
Although plans have not made it out of the group chat, getting out on one of Chicago’s hot tub boats is my personal dream. Six friends fit into these floating jacuzzis which coast along the river for 90-minute rides. Prices range from $300 to $425.
Other unique party options include the Cycleboat and the Rockwell Donut Boat.
Kayak Rentals
Many different companies offer river kayak rentals throughout Chicago. Kayak Chicago, one of the larger competitors, rents from Goose Island on weekends in May, with expanded summer hours beginning in June.
On the North Side, Chicago River Canoe & Kayak offers weekend rentals from Clark Park, while Wateriders has rentals and tours from Rockwell on the River. Even further north, Forest Preserves of Cook County offers boating, canoeing, and kayaking options on the Skokie Lagoon.
On the South Side, in Bridgeport, Wateriders offers kayak rentals along Bubbly Creek.
🛶 Please note: REI offered kayak rentals from a boathouse in Ping Tom Park the last two summers, but the company appears to be cutting that program.
The Chicago Cycleboat, as seen from one of the architectural boat tours. (Emmi Mack / Hey Chicago)
Architectural Boat Tours
The architectural boat tours are not just for tourists. Trust us. Chicago’s First Lady, which partners with the Chicago Architecture Center, is usually the go-to option. It’s also a perfect family outing for Memorial Day weekend.
On the Lake
The Seadog at Navy Pier
If you want to get wet, Seadog is the way to go. This speedboat ride, which leaves from Navy Pier, offers 30 fast minutes bouncing around Lake Michigan. Part tour, part thrill ride. Real thrill seekers should try the Seadog Extreme, which is 30% faster.
Three old friends enjoying Seadog at sunset. (Emmi Mack / Hey Chicago)
Jet Ski Rentals
Jet skis are available to rent at outposts across the city, from Montrose Harbor to Diversey Harbor to 31st Street Harbor. Prices range.
👙 Personally, though, I just hang along the ledge, usually near the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, until a passerby jetski offers me a free ride — works every time.
