young boy kayaking on lake michigan on a family kayak tour

Family Kayak Rentals Lake Michigan

Name: Lake Michigan Family Paddle
Start: 2017-01-02T08:00:00+00:00
End: 2027-01-21T19:00:00+00:00

Paddle the Lake with the Family in Chicago

Enjoy a family kayaking adventure along Chicago’s iconic coastline and take in the views of our world-class city with kayak rentals! Lake Michigan is clean, fresh, and an open turquoise body of water for our pure enjoyment.

This fun, unique family activity is the perfect way to spend an active afternoon exploring Chicago! Our experienced and enthusiastic staff will help your family get started, giving you the confidence to get your family out on the water and feel in charge as you navigate the calm Lake Michigan waters off of Ohio Street Beach.

While kayaking on the lake, paddle past Navy Pier, which served as one of the largest Air Force pilot training bases during World War I and World War II. Though the pier has since transitioned into a popular visitor destination, it still boasts a lengthy history of nautical importance. It’s also home to our world-famous Ferris Wheel, which was first invented in Chicago in 1893.

Then, float along the downtown coastline, marveling at the towering skyscrapers all around. Chicago built the world’s first steel-frame high-rise, and has been reaching new architectural heights for over 100 years.

Later, you might see our ever-important system of breakwalls, which allow for the serene waters we enjoy on this tour. As well as the water intake cribs, where the water gets its freshwater. Along the way, you’ll spot some iconic structures including The Wrigley Building, Playboy tower, and Willis tower.

Rental Details

Rental Details

Must be 18+ to rent kayak. Ages 13+ can ride kayak alone if adult (18+) guardian rents the equipment.
Tandem kayak is suitable for Ages 4+ as long as with adult (18+) guardian.
Valid driver’s license or ID/Matching Credit Card required in order to rent a kayak.
Beginner kayakers are encouraged to paddle a tandem kayak with a more experienced partner.
Prior to departure, a safety talk and paddling tips will be provided.
Reservations online and advance payment required.
Rental hours may be interrupted due to inclement weather.
There is no guarantee we will be around after closing time. *Kayak Rentals must return by closing time or be issued a surcharge.
No reimbursements for under participation

What’s Included

Price includes kayak and life jacket.

What To Bring

Dress for a variety of weather activities. Layers are always recommended because weather can shift quickly when on Lake Michigan. Wear clothing you don’t mind getting wet.
Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.

Rental Location

Bobby’s Kayak Chicago World Headquarters
Ohio Street Beach, Downtown Chicago
600 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60611
Map to view our Meeting Location

Rentals Depart and Return to Ohio Street Beach in Downtown Chicago

Highlights

Ohio Street Beach is a popular beach in Chicago’s downtown Streeterville neighborhood.
The Playboy Building is located on the lakefront in Streeterville,and has seen quite a show in its heyday.
Throughout WWI and WWII, Navy Pier was one of America’s largest pilot-training bases. Now a popular visitor destination, the pier is home to countless restaurants, boutiques, theaters, and amusement park rides.
Lake Michigan is part of the Great Lakes chain, which represents the largest surface of freshwater in the world, covering an area exceeding that of the United Kingdom.
The Wrigley Building is a skyscraper in downtown Chicago located on the Chicago River, modeled after a Spanish cathedral with French Renaissance details.
Lovingly nicknamed the “Corn Towers” for their distinct cob-like design, Marina City is a popular mixed-use parking and residential plaza located on the Chicago River.
The beautifully redesigned Chicago Lakefront trail is a stunning feat of recreational architecture, extending 20 miles with downtown Chicago as its central core.