kayak tours in chicago
Kayaking may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Chicago, but the city's proximity to Lake Michigan and several rivers makes it an ideal place to go kayaking. Several companies in the Chicago area offer guided and self-guided kayak tours that allow people to see the city in a unique and exciting way.
Classic Tour
Offered by several tour companies, the classic Chicago tour is a guided experience that will emphasize historical aspects of the city, while providing background information on some of Chicago's most notable landmarks. For instance, kayak tourists will learn how the Sears Tower is actually four buildings in one and also which landmark building contains floors that are uneven, causing pencils to roll across tables.
The tour follows the same water routes taken by explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet in 1673. Most Chicago kayak tour companies include a kayak in the price of the tour, but do allow visitors to bring their own kayak, as long as it is at least 12 feet long.
Architectural Tour
Chicago architectural tours offer tourists the opportunity to paddle the Chicago River loop, which meanders through canyons created by the city's skyscrapers. This tour also offers historical information about Chicago's storied past, including Al Capone's hideout and where the first settlers lived.
As with most kayak tours in the area, visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the weather and to wear lightweight synthetic material. Sunblock, sunglasses and a hat are also recommended for daytime tours. Cameras are allowed but are likely to get wet, as are the tourists, so bring a waterproof bag. Kayak tour companies reserves the right to cancel any tour if there is inclimate weather, but will gladly reschedule the tour for a future date.
Fireworks Tour
Obviously, this tour is held at night and allows visitors to paddle through downtown Chicago to Navy Pier, where they will enjoy a spectacular fireworks show. This tour is offered during the late spring, summer and early fall months on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Ghosts and Gangsters
Wateriders, a Chicago-based tour company, advertises a unique kayak tour that travels the Chicago River in pursuit of lakefront sites believed to be haunted. Tourists will learn how Chicago newspapers helped create the city's infamous reputation for mayhem and violence. The company has slapped a PG-13 rating on this tour because of its mature theme and recommends children not take the tour.
Wildlife Tour
Wildlife kayak tours are offered at Skokie Lagoons, located 20 miles north of Chicago. Tours along this waterway make frequent stops to observe the region's wildlife, including deer, turtles and heron.
Emotion Glide Kayak, Yellow
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