The Chicago River runs from Lake Michigan through the heart of downtown Chicago.

If you love architecture or exploring beautiful cities by water, paddle boarding the Chicago River is perfect for you. It’s the urban version of the Grand Canyon with skyscrapers rising up on each side of the river.

I love paddling the river early in the morning before any boats are out and the water is calm. It feels like you have the entire city to yourself and is such a unique way to explore urban nature.

The architecture of Chicago will be on display as you pass by skyscrapers and under the beautiful moveable bridges. The main branch of the river flows from Lake Michigan to the west edge of the loop and splits into a North and South Branch. You can paddle south to Chinatown and catch the Chicago Water Taxi back or north to Goose Island.