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Time to celebrate, Chicagoans! Humboldt Park’s beloved swan boats are returning this summer—because nothing says seasonal optimism quite like pedaling furiously while pretending to be a serene waterfowl.
After taking last summer off due to a dip in sales (apparently even giant plastic birds aren’t immune to economic downturns), the fleet is officially floating back into our lives this week. Wheel Fun Rentals, the California-based operator partnered with the Chicago Park District, is relaunching its 15-swan fleet at the lagoon boathouse starting April 25.
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The company has operated out of 1301 North Humboldt Drive since 2018, but business slowed significantly post-pandemic. The franchise owners closed the concession last year with no plans to return, leaving the lagoon to the actual birds. But hope—and a new all-day café planned for the boathouse veranda—has a way of reviving things. The owners decided to bring back both boat and bike rentals.
Alongside the swan boats, Wheel Fun Rentals will also offer Surrey bike rentals. Pricing remains consistent: $30 per hour for a swan boat (a bargain, if you value whimsy), $29 for a four-wheeled Surrey bike and $39 for a double Surrey—perfect for families or groups willing to test both coordination and patience.
Hours will be 11am to 6pm on weekends through May 17. From May 22 to September 1, hours expand to 11am to 7:30pm Monday through Friday and 9am to 7:30pm on weekends and holidays. Late summer hours (Aug 17–Sept 1) shift to 1 to 6pm daily, which feels like the city gently encouraging everyone to start emotionally preparing for fall.
For more information, visit the Wheel Fun Rentals website—and maybe start stretching your legs now. The swans, after all, may look graceful, but they demand effort.