Top Water Activities in Chicago

Kids are known for their adventurous spirit. It is part of who they are. So if you’re traveling in Chicago with your kids, check out our list of the best things to do in Chicago for the kids. There are plenty of exciting activities that both adults and kids can enjoy in Chicago. You can kayak along the Chicago Riverwalk, explore the water on a speedboat, ride a Jetski on Lake Michigan, or soar above the water on a flyboard.

If you need help in planning for your Chicago trip, check out our list of the best Chicago tours. Exploring the waters of Chicago would be fun, especially if you are traveling with the little ones! So if this is something that excites you, then these Chicago River Boat tours are worth checking out. There are various boat trips available for you to choose from. If you want to discover the architectural wonders of Chicago, this Chicago Architectural River Cruise will be perfect for you. But if you would prefer to tour Chicago on a bus, then take a look at these hop on hop off bus tours of Chicago.

Chicago is also home to some of the world’s best amusement parks, such as the Haunted Trails in Burbank and the Pirates’ Cove Children’s Theme Park in Elk Grove Village. If you want to take your kids to these parks, refer to our list of the best amusement parks in Chicago to help you plan for your trip.

For families who love to walk around, these Chicago Walking Tours are worth checking out. These walking tours will come with local guides who are professional entertainers and history buffs. But if you’re on a limited budget, fret not, for there are free things to do in Chicago that are waiting for you.So whether you’re traveling on your own, with a friend, or with your family and kids, exploring Chicago is certainly fun!

Best Chicago Water Sports Price

Chicago Shoreline Adventure Boat Tour €84.91
Chicago's Lake Michigan Downtown Kayak Rental at Ohio Street Beach €37.73
Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat €64.09
30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride €39.24
Chicago River 2 Hour Private Cruise for 6 people with Captain €235.87
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Chicago Shoreline Adventure Boat Tour

1. Chicago Shoreline Adventure Boat Tour

clock Duration: 1 hour 30
  • This tour is the perfect way to experience the shoreline of Chicago in a new and exciting way!

    Our tour vessel is a former military Williard Marine, which provides a unique and interesting touch to the normal tour experience. Being both sturdy in the water, and fast! Reaching up to speeds of 35 Knots! We work hard to provide historical...
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Chicago's Lake Michigan Downtown Kayak Rental at Ohio Street Beach

2. Chicago's Lake Michigan Downtown Kayak Rental at Ohio Street Beach

clock Duration: 1 to 2 hou
  • Paddle the calm, clean and turquoise waters of Lake Michigan at your own pace. Kayak the lakefront scenery in downtown Chicago on your own personal kayak, taking in the city skyline and lake views. Pull off at a nearby beachfront and enjoy time on the sand before paddling further.

    Rentals Available for: 1 - 2 hours
    Single and Tandem...
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Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

3. Lake Michigan and Chicago River Architecture Cruise by Speedboat

clock Duration: 1 hour 15
  • Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on the Chicago River. Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way to get up-close views of Chicago’s unique architecture and famous landmarks. Seadog offers fun for the whole family (and the dog, too!) with live narration along the city’s shore....
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30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride

4. 30 Minute Lake Michigan Speedboat Ride

clock Duration: 30 minutes
  • Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting speedboat Tour on Lake Michigan. Departing from Navy Pier, the Lakefront Speedboat Tour is the best way to view Chicago from the water. Seadog offers fun for the whole family (and the dog, too!) combining an exciting speedboat ride along the shoreline with informative and amusing descriptions of...
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Chicago River 2 Hour Private Cruise for 6 people with Captain

5. Chicago River 2 Hour Private Cruise for 6 people with Captain

clock Duration: 2 hours
  • It's an intimate experience for 2 to 6 people. No mass crowds associated with tour boats. They get to enjoy the river with the luxury of having their own private boat with a professional, licensed, captain. Cocktails, and other beverages, are available from the bar for purchase before...
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