Illinois > Chicago > Water Activities > Kayak & Paddling Experiences Gifts Experiences

Architectural Kayak Tour

Chicago, IL

Item #: WAT-CHI-0003
(21 Reviews)
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From: $82
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Overview

Explore the unique and intriguing past of Chicago's historic buildings from the seat of a kayak as you paddle the famous Chicago River! 

  • Paddle the river with an outfitter with 20 years of experience
  • See historic buildings designed by some of architecture's most famous names including Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Mies van der Rohe, and others
  • Explore the city from a completely different perspective on this 3-hour paddle
  • All skill levels are welcome as no prior experience is necessary! 
Full Description
Chicago River - Chicago, IL
When Do I Choose A Date?
If giving as a gift, your recipient can choose a date at their convenience; otherwise, you can choose one after checkout.

Year Round:
Daily - 10:00 AM & 3:00 PM
 

Essential Information
  • Basic athleticism and kayak skills are recommended
  • All equipment is provided
  • You will choose a single or double kayak upon arrival
  • Kids must be at least 12 years old to paddle on their own, otherwise any age can paddle in a tandem with an adult. All children under the age of 18 must have their parents sign the waiver for them.
Duration
3-hour paddle
Experience Provider Info
Complete information for your Experience Provider, including contact information, will be included on your booking confirmation email once you or your gift recipient have scheduled the experience. Our Product Management team handpicks top-rated experience providers, removing the guesswork for you and ensuring your peace of mind.
Maximum Participants
You will be part of a group where the typical size varies between 10 to 50 people.
Spectators
Only booked participants are allowed on this tour.
Weather Dependent
This experience is weather dependent. Always contact the experience provider with any questions regarding weather conditions.
What To Wear
You will be on the water, so come prepared to possibly get a little wet. Dress casual, jeans are not recommended. Bring a towel, and a change of dry clothes.
What should I bring?

You can bring fluids and snacks if you wish, also a camera is great to bring while you're out on the water.

What if I don't want to bring my keys or other valuables with me while kayaking?
There is free storage at each of the locations, in case you want to leave something behind, or don't want to get it wet.
Is alcohol allowed on the tour?
For your own safety, there is no alcohol allowed in the kayaks. 

Returns
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be returned hassle-free within 30 days. All refunds will be made to the original purchaser.
Exchanges
Experience Vouchers that have not been redeemed can be exchanged for anything else in our marketplace at any time.  If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs more, you'll simply have to pay the difference. If you choose to exchange for an experience that costs less, you'll have a credit towards your next booking with Virgin Experience Gifts.

Cancellation Policy

Once you have received a booking confirmation, cancellations and rescheduling are allowed up to 10 days prior to the experience. Failure to appear on your booked date or to cancel and reschedule at least 10 days prior to your booked date will result in the loss of the value of your experience.

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Customer Reviews

This experience has a customer rating of 5
based on 21 reviews.
A pleasant balance of informational stops and time to paddle with a friendly and efficient guide
— Brenna K | Aug 01, 2022
Our guides were great!
— Jon K | Sep 20, 2021
Response from Virgin Experience Gifts
Hello Jon! I think you’re great for embarking on this unique adventure! Ecstatic to hear you enjoyed your guides, I hope they provided you with a fascinating look into Chicago’s architectural history from the perspective of your kayak. Cheers! Courtney
The guide and other staff were great. Lots of positive energy all around. Highly recommend knowing your fitness level before going on one of these. Three hours is a lot of paddling!
— Lisa P | Aug 30, 2021
Response from Virgin Experience Gifts
Hi Lisa! Great staff and positive energy sound like an excellent combo for your paddle on the Chicago River! Three hours does sound like a lot of paddling, but I hope the sight seeing of Chicago’s Historic Buildings was everything you imagined it’d be. I appreciate your feedback on knowing your fitness level and will be sure to pass that along to future paddlers! Cheers! Courtney
It is safe. I went with my two kids and wife. The instructor was near who need him. And all over it was great!
— Frank R | Aug 24, 2021
Response from Virgin Experience Gifts
Hello Frank!  What an incredible review for a wonderful adventure! It is so great to hear that you had such a 5-star experience with your guide and your family. Being safe is an absolute must so we are thrilled that you could experience this together!  Best, Brianna
It was great. I enjoyed the trip and David our tour guide was amazing. He was very knowledgeable of the history and kayak skills.
— Valerie K | Sep 27, 2020
Response from Virgin Experience Gifts
Hello Valerie, Fantastic! I am overjoyed to hear you enjoyed your time on the water for this wonderful kayak adventure. We are so happy that David could provide you with some great information on your tour. We will be sure to pass along your kind words to him! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us. Cheers, Chandi
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