Wateriders Northwest

If you want to explore the North Branch of the Chicago River without having to paddle all the way back to the Loop, you might want to rent a boat from Waterider Northwest. Based out of the Rockwell on the River facility (also home to Metropolitan Brewing and Metropolic Coffee Co.), Waterider's North Side outpost rents out single or double kayaks and also offers private tours. If you're willing to pay a little extra, you can take a kayak on a one-way trip to Waterider's dock beneath the Kinzie Street Bridge.