The Deal

• $25 for a two-hour stand-up paddle board rental ($40 value)

Kayak Chicago

The hustle and bustle of the city can’t touch the calm waters of Lake Michigan. There, on gently rolling waves surrounded by fresh breezes, Kayak Chicago hosts tours and lessons, and lets paddlers take to the waters on their own with rentals. One of Chicago’s original kayak and paddleboard outfitters, the company has been entrusting certified instructors and guides with shaping the strokes of kayaking newbies since 1999. Their guided tours take aquatic explorers down the Chicago River at night to ooh and ahh over summer fireworks or during the day to survey the city’s renowned architecture. The staff also helps patrons take their standup paddleboards skills to the next level with introductory lessons or wave-top rounds of SUPYoga or SUPPilates.