Experience the calm and thrill of paddling on Lake Michigan with Urban Kayaks’ 1-hour rentals. Perfect for all skill levels, this weekend activity brings joy and relaxation right in Chicago's vibrant lakefront.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals with basic fitness; paddling involves light upper body strength and balance.
Wildlife
History
Chicago's lakefront has long been a center for recreation and commerce, evolving from a shipping hub to a vibrant urban waterfront.
Conservation
Urban Kayaks supports sustainable practices by using eco-friendly equipment and promoting Leave No Trace principles on and off the water.
Urban Kayaks
Experience the calm and thrill of paddling on Lake Michigan with Urban Kayaks’ 1-hour rentals. Perfect for all skill levels, this weekend activity brings joy and relaxation right in Chicago's vibrant lakefront.
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.
Wear a Life Vest at All Times
Safety first: always keep the provided life jacket on while on the water regardless of your swimming ability.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Plan to arrive early for a quick safety briefing and gear fitting to maximize your rental time.
Apply Waterproof Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure while out on open water, especially during peak daylight hours.
Secure Personal Items
Leave valuables behind or secure them in waterproof bags to avoid water damage.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays during sunny trips on the water.
summer
Comfortable Water Shoes
Provides grip and protection when launching from rocky or sandy shorelines.
summer
Light Windbreaker Jacket
Keeps you warm against cool winds during early-season paddling.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Helps keep you hydrated during your hour-long adventure.