ON WATER There is much to see along the Chicago Riverwalk beyond its stellar water views. Learn about the city’s magnificent moveable bridges, shop for locally made goods, view public art, and eat and drink at numerous riverside restaurants. Get a unique perspective of the Chicago River and the city’s iconic landmarks with a tour on the water from Urban Kayaks , with a location on the Chicago Riverwalk. Another action-packed Chicago spot is Navy Pier , which features 50 acres of restaurants, shops, theatres, seasonal festivals, and the soaring Centennial Wheel , along with Instagram-worthy views. Visit on Wednesday and Saturday nights during the summer for dazzling free fireworks shows. Adrenaline junkies will want to check out the Chicago Seadog Extreme Thrill Ride , which offers high speeds and 360-degree spins on its exciting lake excursions. For a more leisurely experience, hop aboard the 148-foot Tall Ship Windy , a four-masted schooner that allows riders to hoist the sails. Summer in Chicago must include a day spent at one of its beautiful beaches — and with 26 miles of lakefront, there are plenty to choose from. For terrific people watching and views of the cityscape, head to Oak Street Beach . Nearby, North Avenue Beach features lively sand volleyball games. Looking to pair your beach day with live music? Head to South Shore Beach , which is part of the South Shore Cultural Center . Kick back with food, drinks, and live tunes at the neighboring South Shore Social Beach Club . Or check out Rainbow Beach , a South Side gem with one of the city’s oldest community gardens, in addition to stunning skyline vistas. Want to add water sports to your beach itinerary? At North Avenue Beach’s Chicago SUP , you can give stand-up paddleboarding a try. For something different, head to Neon Paddle in Chinatown’s Ping Tom Park for motorized paddleboarding lit by glowing neon lights. Kayaking is a fun way to experience Chicago’s waterways. The experts from Chicago Water Sport Rentals at 31st Street Harbor and Bobby’s Kayak Company at Ohio Street Beach can help with rentals, tours, and more. Or rent a jet ski from North Avenue Beach’s Jet Ski Chicago and zoom along the lakefront. The world’s first floating eco-park, The Wild Mile is located along the North Branch Canal of the Chicago River and is accessible by foot on its boardwalk or via water. Rent a kayak from Urban Kayaks to fully explore this North Side treasure. North Avenue Beach 26 CHOOSECHICAGO.COM
Chicago Visitors Guide 2026: Page 26
