CHICAGO BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Paddling the Emerald City: Chicago’s St. Paddy’s Day Green River Tour
A guided, three-hour evening paddle through downtown Chicago to witness the annual dyeing of the river; this guide explains what to expect, who can go, and what to bring.
Paddling the Emerald City: Chicago’s St. Paddy’s Day Green River Tour.
Celebrate St. Paddy’s by slipping a paddle into the water and gliding a kayak or voyageur canoe through Chicago’s lit river canyons as the city itself turns emerald. The outing begins on the North Branch, moves along Goose Island’s peaceful back channel, and finishes with a skyline-lit view past Lake Shore Drive—an urban river experience that pairs city spectacle with simple boat skills.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Watch the River Turn Green
Be among the paddlers on the river when organizers dye the water green for St. Patrick’s Day—an intimate vantage point away from the crowds on the bridges and banks.
Glide Between Glass and Steel
As you enter downtown, the river becomes a corridor of reflections and light, offering a unique nighttime perspective on Chicago’s architecture as you paddle the waterway.
Kayaks and an 18-Passenger Voyageur Canoe
Options range from single and double kayaks to an 18‑passenger voyageur canoe, so groups and individual paddlers can choose the platform that suits them.
What the day feels like
What the evening feels like
You begin by meeting guides near the North Branch of the Chicago River, receive a shore-side orientation and safety briefing, then launch into the North Branch and paddle the sheltered back channel of Goose Island. The pace is deliberate—technique and water rules are covered before you enter the downtown stretch—culminating in a reflective, skyline-framed moment past Lake Shore Drive as the river glows green.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an evening experience that lasts approximately 3 hours.
Kayak Chicago provides single and double-seat kayaks; sea kayaks are available only to paddlers with prior course or equivalent rescue skills. Dress for evening temperatures and river spray; bring any personal layers or dry bags you need.
Participants must check out in the operator’s office when they return so staff know everyone is off the water. Space is limited—reserve online (online bookings include a $2 discount per person).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No experience is required; guides provide basics and a safety briefing on land, though some athletic ability is recommended.
Are there age restrictions for kayaks?
Children under 12 years must be accompanied by an adult on a double kayak; single kayaks are for ages 12 and up.
Can I paddle a sea kayak on this trip?
Sea kayaks are available only to those who have completed Kayak Chicago’s sea kayaking courses or possess equivalent rescue skills.
How do I check out after the trip?
You must check out in the operator’s office when you return so staff know you are off the water.
Is there a discount for booking online?
Yes—reserve online and save $2 per person.