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Join Urban Kayaks in Chicago for a 90-minute beginner paddleboarding lesson. Learn the basics while enjoying beautiful views of Monroe Harbor and the city skyline.
Join Urban Kayaks in Chicago for a 90-minute beginner paddleboarding lesson. Learn the basics while enjoying beautiful views of Monroe Harbor and the city skyline.
Book with Urban Kayaks
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Urban Kayaks · Chicago, Illinois
Discover the exciting world of paddleboarding with Urban Kayaks in Chicago, Illinois. This 90-minute Intro to Paddleboarding class is perfect for beginners and children eager to learn an engaging water sport while soaking in the stunning views of the Chicago skyline. Located on Monroe Harbor, the calm waters provide an ideal environment for first-timers to gain confidence and master basic paddleboarding techniques under the guidance of expert instructors. The intimate group setting guarantees personalized attention, creating a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether you want to try a new activity or look for a fun family outing, this paddleboarding adventure offers the perfect blend of active learning and relaxation. Expect to feel invigorated by fresh lake air and panoramic cityscape views as you glide over peaceful waters. Urban Kayaks not only equips you with skills but also invites you to appreciate Chicago’s unique waterfront from a refreshing perspective. The combination of beginner-friendly instruction, beautiful scenery, and easy accessibility makes this private paddleboarding session a must-try adventure for locals and visitors alike.
easy.
1.5 hours.
Suitable for individuals in average physical condition with basic balance and endurance.
No, this intro class is designed specifically for beginners with no prior experience needed.
Yes, children are welcome and the class is tailored to accommodate a wide range of ages.
Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and bring a swimsuit if you plan to get wet.
Urban Kayaks provides all the necessary paddleboarding equipment, including boards, paddles, and life jackets.
Sessions may be rescheduled or canceled due to severe weather like storms or high winds for participants’ safety.
Yes, Monroe Harbor has restroom and changing facilities nearby for guest convenience.
Monroe Harbor has long been a hub for recreational boating in Chicago, offering unique water access near downtown.
Urban Kayaks promotes eco-friendly practices by encouraging reusable gear and educating paddlers on preserving Chicago’s waterways.
Urban Kayaks is a Chicago-based paddling company operating from Monroe Harbor that offers guided kayak tours, paddleboard classes, rentals, and instructor training. Specializing in urban waterways, the company runs a range of experiences on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, including sunset and twilight paddles, fireworks tours from Navy Pier, and family-friendly rentals. Programs include beginner paddleboard lessons, youth kayak classes for ages 9–16, an after-school kayak class for ages 10–16, and a multi-day Level 2 kayak touring instructor certification workshop. All activities are led by experienced instructors who prioritize safety, small group sizes, and hands-on learning. Equipment rentals include single and tandem kayaks and paddleboards suitable for beginners and confident paddlers. Seasonal lakefront rentals operate on weekends through mid‑September, while guided river and harbor tours run throughout the paddling season. Urban Kayaks emphasizes education and progression with dedicated youth programs and formal instructor certification opportunities. The youth five-day kayak class and the five-day after-school format provide progressive skill development in a supervised environment. The Level 2 Essentials of Kayak Touring Instructor Certification is a four-day immersive workshop focused on teaching methods, group management, and risk management for aspiring instructors. By combining guided exploration of Chicago’s architecture, waterfront history, and natural shoreline scenery with structured learning and equipment access, Urban Kayaks provides reliable, memorable paddling experiences for families, beginners, and prospective instructors. Booking is available online or in person at Monroe Harbor, with seasonal schedules and class details posted on the company's website. Safety briefings included before every activity.
Book with Urban Kayaks