Paddle beneath Chicago’s iconic skyline with Riverwalk Kayak’s 1-hour rentals. Perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike to experience the city’s unique waterways safely.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in moderate physical condition; basic paddling strength recommended
Wildlife
History
The Chicago River was central to the city’s development and underwent major revitalization starting in the early 2000s to restore public access and environmental health.
Conservation
Riverwalk Kayak participates in promoting clean waterways by educating paddlers on leaving no trace and supporting local clean-up efforts.
Urban Kayaks
Paddle beneath Chicago’s iconic skyline with Riverwalk Kayak’s 1-hour rentals. Perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike to experience the city’s unique waterways safely.
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.
Location
Chicago, IL
Paddles depart from Monroe Harbor
Age Range
Kids 9–16 • Adults 18+
Programs for youth and adults
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
From 1-hour rentals to 4-day courses
Instructor Training
Level 2 Course
4-day essentials of kayak touring
Reserve guided tours, youth classes, rentals, or Level 2 instructor training—check seasonal schedules and weekend rental availability through mid‑September.
Check weather before booking
Wind and rain can affect river conditions, so verify the forecast to ensure a safe, enjoyable paddle.
Wear quick-dry clothing
Dress in layers with moisture-wicking fabrics since you may get splashed during kayaking.
Use provided life jackets
Always wear a life vest for safety regardless of swimming ability on the river.
Arrive early for skills assessment
Arriving ahead of your rental time helps you complete the safety briefing without rush.
Waterproof shoes
Protects your feet and provides grip on wet surfaces during launch and landing.
Sunscreen
Crucial for preventing sunburn on the exposed river waters during sunny days.
summer
Light windbreaker
Useful for cooler breezes on the water in early season paddling.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during your paddle, especially on warm days.