Wateriders at Northwest -- Chicago River Kayak Tours and Rentals

Operating out of Rockwell on the River—a complex shared with Metropolis Coffee’s roastery and Metropolitan Brewing—this launch point trades the packed Riverwalk and downtown towers for the river's reemerging wildlife. On the water, options include independent kayak rentals as well as private tours coordinated with Chicago Electric Boat Company. Paddlers can also take one-way trips to downtown, linking the quieter North Branch back to the urban core.