Kayaking Sunset Tour on Chicago River
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling ability recommended
Overview
Paddle the Chicago River at twilight on a guided 90-minute kayak tour that highlights the city’s top landmarks in a peaceful setting with fewer crowds.
Sunset Tour
Starting at $60 |18+ (All Ages If Accompanied By an Adult)| 2 Hours | A Beautiful Chicago Twilight!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the enchanting beauty of Chicago at twilight on a 90-minute guided kayak tour. Paddle past historic landmarks as the sun sets, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for all ages. With fewer boats on the river, enjoy a unique and relaxing adventure that showcases the city's architectural splendor.
Amidst a soft golden twilight cast upon some of Chicago's prettiest renown architecture, this a 90-minute guided tour takes paddlers to some of Chicago's earliest historical spots while the sun sets on our bustling city.
Rates
Ages 18+ or accompanied by an adult.
- Single Kayak - $60
- Tandem Kayak - $120
Duration
2 hours
About
Perhaps our city is never more beautiful than at twilight. Take in the cityscape as the sun sets, enjoying our Historic Chicago Tour along the way. Fewer boats on the river in the evenings helps make this one of our most serene and relaxing excursions, suitable for all ages and ability levels. There is a 20-minute safety/training session before the tour, and our boats are equipped with lights. Reservations recommended.
More details:
- Arrival time: Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time to check-in and store anything you don't want to take on the water in one of our lockers. If you are late to a scheduled tour, we can get you caught up as long as the group is still on-land. Once the group is on the water, we can no longer get you caught up, and you will need to reschedule.
- Launch site: This tour starts and finishes at our Riverwalk location.
- How to dress: Assume you will get wet, and dress accordingly. Also, wear workout/cycling gloves if you have them. Your hands will thank you.
Adventure Tips
Book Evening Slots Early
Sunset tours fill quickly due to limited availability and prime timing—reserve your spot ahead of time.
Wear Layers for Evening Chill
Temperatures can drop quickly on the river after sunset, so bring a light jacket or layers.
Secure Your Gear
Use waterproof dry bags or containers to protect phones and cameras from splashes.
Follow Guide Instructions
Stay close to the group and listen carefully to safety briefings for a relaxed, safe paddle.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron
- Mallard ducks
History
The Chicago River’s course was dramatically altered in 1900 to reverse flow, a major feat in civil engineering.
Conservation
The tour provider supports river clean-up initiatives to maintain water quality and aquatic habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Life Jacket
Safety first—your guide will provide a properly fitted PFD for the tour.
Waterproof Bag
Protect valuables and electronics from potential splashes on the river.
Warm Layers
Keep comfortable if temperatures drop during the evening paddle.
fall specific
Closed-Toe Water Shoes
Secure footing when entering and exiting the kayak along the riverbank.
summer specific