The post What You Need to Know About Taking Your First Trip to Chicago appeared first on Chicago Boat Rentals.
]]>The very first part of planning any trip should be the way you plan to travel to your new adventure. For many people that means hopping in a plane and flying to the city that overlooks the Midwest. For others, a road trip may be a better option depending on their location and their plan for the rest of your trip. One benefit of a road trip is that it means you will already have transportation once you are in the city as well. But flying can be much quicker and help you to have a more comfortable time while you are traveling to the area. It is really just dependent on what you are looking for in your first Chicago experience.
You also want to make sure to plan a few great activities that will get you into the spirit of your Chicago vacation. One option is to take advantage of the city’s location on Lake Michigan and take a boat ride on the lake. You could also take a tour of the city by bike or sign up for a food tour that will take you to some of the best restaurants in the area. Chicago is full of museums and cultural and sporting events that can be part of your plan to get a full view of what Chicago has to offer the people who visit it.
Choosing the best places to eat is an important part of any great trip, and this is especially true in Chicago. Most everyone knows that there are amazing options like deep dish pizza and Chicago dogs to keep you full while you are in Chicago. And while those are essential to the full Chicago experience, you also want to make sure that you are checking out a variety of local restaurants that serve a huge number of different cuisines. For example, check out Little India to gain access to a huge variety of Indian food options that can expose you to the incredible variety that Indian cuisine has to offer.
You also need to think about the transportation you will use once you are in the city. Even if you drive, you may find that you would prefer to use alternate methods to get around town. The public transit system is pretty strong in Chicago and you can easily use the train or bus to get around town if needed. You can also use taxi services or rideshare options to get from place to place. And if you do decide to drive, just make sure that you have money for parking throughout the city. If you’re driving your car you want to make sure that you stay cool as well. Window tinting can block 98% of solar heat, making your vehicle more efficient to keep cool.
Any trip you plan needs to have a budget to make sure that you don’t get caught up in the city and overspend on things you don’t need. That’s why it is important to plan your trip with your budget at the front of your mind. Various elements of your stay in Chicago will cost money but if you shop around you can keep your budget tight and make sure that you do everything you hoped to. Your budget should include all elements of your trip from the cost of lodging and travel to food and entertainment.
Without somewhere to stay, your trip won’t be much fun for anyone involved. So, you need to choose the type of lodgings that make the most sense for your trip and what you are trying to accomplish. You have a few different options that can all come together to make your trip into something great. For example, you could use a service like Airbnb to select a more personal place in the city, another option is a great hotel with a level of amenities that makes you feel comfortable and luxurious. Just make sure you are choosing a living situation that will meet your needs for the length of your trip.
Depending on what you want from your trip, different times of year will be the best option for your needs. During the summer the city really lives up to its name by having nice windy days that are generally not too hot. The winter tends to be a messier time weather wise, but it is not as busy or as expensive as visiting in the summer. You really just want to choose the right time to visit so you can have more fun and see as much of the city as possible.
Chicago is a big city, and it can take a while to soak it all in. However, you can make a shorter trip work if you are ready to hit the ground running and see many things on a tighter schedule. A big part of deciding how long to stay is simply thinking about your budget and what you can afford to take off of work. If you know that, you will be in a great position to get things rolling and have an amazing stay.
Chicago is an amazing city with tons to offer anyone who takes the time to visit. Planning your trip should be a fun experience that gets you ready to make the most out of your time in Chicago. Make a list of priorities and let it guide you as you explore and learn more about the city.
Read this next: Why a Boating Trip to Chicago Should Be Your Next Summer Vacation
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]]>The post How to Plan a Memorable Trip to Chicago appeared first on Chicago Boat Rentals.
]]>The first step in any trip is figuring out how you are going to travel. If Chicago is your destination, your travel plans will probably have a lot to do with where you are coming from. IF you are on the west coast, it may be a little far to plan on taking a road trip to Chicago, but if you are on the east side of the country, driving is a little bit easier. Either way, a road trip can be a fun way to get to Chicago. Flying is another option that tends to be an easier choice and a quick flight can get you to Chicago from anywhere in the United States. Just make sure that you think about the length of your trip when you are choosing how to get there so you aren’t spending the bulk of your time in a car.
You also need to plan for how you will travel within the city. The train in Chicago is a pretty great method of public transportation that can help you to move around the city without having to face the roads in your car. But if you would rather drive, you can always rent a car to get around town. You can also use ridesharing as a way to get around or even ride a bike. It’s important that you do what you can to stay as safe as possible however you travel around, so you should choose a method that you feel comfortable and confident with.
There’s no point in going to Chicago if you aren’t going to go out and see all the things you have at your fingertips. Depending on your preferences, there are many things you can do to have a good time in Chicago. Checking out the tourist attractions can be a great place to start. If you are interested in museums there are many options that can get you excited about the city. You can also go see shows or a basketball game if your timing is right. Whatever things you like to do in the city should be able to keep you busy and make your trip a real success.
Finding the right place to stay can help you to get even more out of your trip. Your first choice is whether to stay in a hotel or get a short-term rental. You also want to think about the location of your stay and what you want to do around town so you can keep things as simple and comfortable as possible. If you choose a short-term rental, you can have access to the amenities of home that can make your stay a lot more fun. Things like a deck and a kitchen can greatly improve any trip. For example, there are many ways to enjoy a vacation with all the features that come with a deck.
Figuring out what to pack for your stay can help you to make sure you are prepared for any circumstance. Many people prefer to travel with as little luggage as possible and that method can be a great way to simplify your trip. One thing to take into account is whether you will have laundry available to you. If you won’t have easy access to laundry, it might be better to pack more clothing, so you won’t have to make a bunch of laundry runs.
The way your trip will go depends on how long you are able to stay in Chicago. You can have a great time whether you stay for just a few days or a couple of weeks. However, the tone and pace of your trip can change significantly depending on the length of your stay. Figuring out how long you have can help you to prioritize the activities you want to do and give you the best chance of enjoying the trip you plan.
You can’t go on a trip to a city without taking the time to try at least a couple of the local staples. In Chicago, that means at least trying a deep-dish pizza and a Chicago dog, don’t forget to say no to ketchup if you want to eat like a local. You may also want to plan a few meals in your rental or hotel if you want to save a little money. This is easier if you have a full kitchen, so it is worth keeping that in mind when you are choosing the lodgings for your trip.
If you want to get the most out of your trip you need to make sure that you keep the weather in mind. They don’t call Chicago the windy city for nothing and the hot summers and cold winters can be a problem if you aren’t prepared. Check the forecasts leading up to your trip so you can make sure you pack the right things for your needs. You also want to make sure that you bring a couple options in case things change.
Your Chicago trip should be a time where you get to explore and have a lot of fun. The more you are able to get things planned well, the better it will be for your final experience. Make sure you give yourself the space to rest and enjoy every aspect of your exciting trip.
Read this next: Safety Tips for Boating in Chicago Bay
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]]>The post Tips for Sailing With Your Dog on Board appeared first on Chicago Boat Rentals.
]]>Getting your dog to be comfortable on your boat will vary from dog to dog. But one of the best ways to start is to simply bring your dog aboard the boat when it is docked. Take your dog around the boat on a leash. Then, over time, let your dog roam the deck more freely and explore the surface for itself. Performing this same process over and over will help the place become familiar bit by bit. Then, take your dog on smaller sailing trips to better understand how your dog feels about being on the open water. Doing smaller trips can help you gauge your dog’s comfort levels and better assess how to best proceed.
Dog-proofing your boat is an essential step for any boat owner. This is especially true if you have beautiful wood finish or nice custom seats on the boat. Understand that you are going to be putting your pet in a more stressful situation than normal. When your dog is stressed out, it is likely to perform more actions that are annoying at best and destructive at worst in order to cope. With this mentality in mind, go through your boat carefully and try to eliminate or protect any vulnerable areas of your boat from your dog’s claws, paws, and teeth. Putting laminate covers over leather seating is an excellent example!
Have dog supplies on your boat to help your dog feel a base level of comfort. You might consider getting duplicates of some of the same dog supplies you have at home. For example, having the same toys that you have at home, the same dog food, and the same dog bed can all help your pup feel more comfortable on the boat. Be sure to do your research about the best dog food and water bowls—you might have to get specific no-spill options, as the boat will certainly be moving more than a kitchen floor!
Of course, it’s important that you think about the breed of dog you have or want to get. The type of dog can play a large role in the dog’s comfort level around water. If you’re in the market for a dog and anticipate bringing it on a variety of water-related or boating related activities, be sure to do your research on different breeds. There are many puppy breeds with different personalities and temperaments, so understanding different temperaments is essential. Such knowledge can help you not only find a good match for your personal personality, but also find a dog whose personality will accommodate for situations that initially put it outside of its comfort zone.
Teaching your dog to swim is another aspect to consider. A large number of dogs are already relatively comfortable with water and are able to comfortably doggy paddle in different bodies of water. Other dogs struggle significantly to learn how to stay afloat. Make sure to check out if this is a problem at a shoreline or backyard pool before breaking waves with your pup. Depending on your dog’s situation, you might need to do some research about how to help your furry loved one learn to swim and be comfortable around big bodies of water. But doing so will make a big difference in your pet’s enjoyment of activities on and surrounding boats!
Adjusting your sailing route is one way your pet’s discomfort can be minimized and your pet will be less likely to start yapping on a voyage. Being on the water for long periods of time can be especially unnerving for your dog. If you are simply doing leisurely sailing, this could mean only taking shorter trips with your dog aboard. This is also one way to work up to longer trips with your pet. Also, you can avoid larger ships whose sounds may be intimidating, and stay away from swamps that could be hard to swim in or clean up after should your dog jump out. Ultimately, adjusting your trips will be best for everyone involved—it will minimize your pet’s discomfort and will likely minimize yours and your guests’ discomfort at the dog’s whelping or barking.
Another way to help your dog feel more comfortable on the water is to actually take breaks during each voyage. The functionality of this idea really depends on the type of sailing or boating you are doing but can make a big difference for your pet. For example, if you are boating in a lake, take some time every now and then to stop the boat and potentially let your dog out for a swim. If possible, adjust your route to allow for momentary breaks to go back on land. This could mean simply stopping at an island for a couple of hours and then resuming the voyage to the destination. Doing this will help your pet feel more safe and comfortable being surrounded by water while they are on a boat.
In addition to easing your dog into the process of sailing, you may also want to reward your dog’s willingness to go on the boat with treats and praise for good behavior. Making it a fun, interactive, and rewarding experience for them will improve their attitude towards the activity, until your dog looks forward to it as much as walks! Repeating this process during each voyage will eventually help train your dog to be less anxious and better manage when out on the water.
Helping your dog feel more comfortable on a boat will truly vary by dog. It’s important for you to decide how important it is to get your dog boat-trained and boat-happy. Not all dogs will reach a place where they are fully comfortable on a boat. If it’s a priority for you, however, be patient but consistent, and most of the time your pet will eventually look forward to boating as much as you!
Read this next: Why a Boating Trip to Chicago Should Be Your Next Summer Vacation
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]]>We are now at a 6 person capacity
These guidelines are strict. We cannot even allow one extra person on any of our boats. This number includes children and/or infants. This is the total number of bodies on any of our boats, regardless of the size of the boat.
6 adults or a mix of adults and kids as long as it does not go over 6 people.
Please arrive with no more than 6 people the day of your rental. If you have questions, please email chicagoboatrentals@outlook.com
We look forward to seeing you!
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]]>Chicago has something for every type of boating trip. If you love fishing, summer is King Salmon season. If you love sailing, the Race to Mackinac, the world’s longest fresh water sailing race is held in Chicago every year. There are also yearly boat parties in July and August which bring hundreds of boats together for music, food, and fun. Just make sure you don’t drink if you’re driving the boat. Driving a boat while under the influence comes with risks just like driving a car under the influence.
Chicago is famous for its architecture. If you don’t want to walk around the city, you cantake an architecture tour along the Chicago river. Just be sure to visit the Sears Tower. The Sears Tower in Chicago was the tallest building in the world for nearly twenty-five years. Although it no longer holds that record, it is still a sight to behold. If you love good food, check out the Windy City Smokeout. This weekend fest combines BBQ and country music in an all-out fun party. If you’re more into indie-rock, then check out the going on at the Pitchfork’s Music Festival.
Chicago is the perfect place if you’re looking for a warm place that isn’t blazing hot. The average high temperature in July is 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Two-thirds of the daylight hours are sunny. The average humidity is usually around 50% midday which is comfortable for most people. July is also the least windy month for Chicago. This means that the waters will be nice and calm for your boating trip. However, if you were planning on sailing, this could end up being a problem. Just make sure that you keep an eye out for thunderstorms. They tend to be a little more common during the summer months.
As you can see, there is plenty to do in Chicago. You won’t be bored, and you won’t regret your decision to go. The hardest part about your trip will be deciding which of all the great activities you want to participate in. Don’t let it stress you out too much, you can always come back and visit again next summer.
If you’d like to tour Chicago by boat, book a cruise with us!
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]]>It may seem obvious, but once you enter the locks of the Chicago waters and certain waters surrounding the area, life jackets are required. Authorities do recommend that you wear them at all times when boating, especially since the currents tend to be high and quite strong at certain times of the year, which is why planning is just as essential as on-board safety. Check weather reports for conditions and check for strong currents ahead of time. Keep in mind that different levels of life jacket are required depending on the size of the waterway and how far from shore you are traveling.
No matter the direction you are traveling or the size of your boat while boating on the Chicago River, you must keep right. If your boat is quite small, then you must travel even further right along with the slower moving traffic. This allows larger and faster moving water vessels to safely pass by you and will help avoid water hazards.
In a car you can travel the length of a football field in seconds, and while a boat might be slower, it’s just as easy to miss how far you’ve gone when you’re not paying attention. It’s important to watch your speed and follow the safe speed rules since you cannot solely rely on your perceived visual speed. This will ensure that you can safely stop your boat to avoid any possible collisions.
No one wants to end up going overboard and especially in rough waters. However, it does happen from time to time and it could happen to you. If you unexpectedly find yourself in the water while boating in the area, use Dave Benjamin’s advice of flip, float, and follow. When people end up overboard, they tend to panic and the entire idea behind this method is to do the opposite by flipping over on your back and allowing your body to float. Relax your body and breathe deeply to help reduce anxiety.
Boating can be a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the sights and sounds in any city or area from a distance. For best boating experience possible, and to avoid any water hazards, always practice safety and proper planning before heading out on the waters.
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]]>Must-Visit Spots
Chicago is loaded with history and rich in culture. Museum fans will want to spend a day at the Chicago Art Institute, and kids of all ages will enjoy their time at the Shedd Aquarium. The Field Museum of Natural History is also a must-see. If you’d like to get off the beaten path, plan to spend some time at the Driehaus Museum, which offers a gorgeous view into Chicago’s gilded age.
To get a detailed glimpse of Chicago’s remarkable architectural history, be sure to take a river cruise. In addition to studying the details of construction in some of the most iconic buildings of the city, you can also learn about the history of Chicago. The great fire of 1871 wreaked destruction on both sides of the river, but how? On the tour, you can begin to understand what was going on in Chicago at the time, why the fire was so destructive and how the city rebuilt. If possible, try to schedule your trip to Chicago around March 17th. Your tour can include a look at the river after it’s been dyed green for the huge St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the city.
Renting a car to get around in a big city like Chicago isn’t very practical. Not only may you be struggling to figure out where to go and how to get there, but your rental car may not handle as easily as your regular car at home. Sudden panic stops or quick lane changes in heavy traffic can get dangerous in an unfamiliar vehicle, and the traffic ticket will not be cheap if you get pulled over. Rideshare apps are an option, as is the L train, but these can cost you a fortune over the course of your trip.
Alternatively, you can see Chicago from the comfort of a pontoon boat and avoid the stress of traffic altogether. Renting a pontoon can be a breathtaking way to experience Chicago while saving time and money. Most importantly, some of the most beautiful views of the city of Chicago can be seen from the water. If you’re ready to view the city lights, don’t look for a tall building where you can look down on the city. Get out on Lake Michigan and look up at this remarkable metropolis. When you return your pontoon rental, you might be ready for dinner. There are several dinner cruise options, both on the shore of Lake Michigan and on the Chicago River. In fact, the dining options available in Chicago will satisfy any palate.
Of course, a stop for some deep dish pizza is critical. However, if you have some cash in your pocket, you can also find great food in less obvious spots around Chicago. Spend some time in the Loop and save space for Cajun food at Heaven on Seven. There are no signs, and you’ll have to talk to the doorman for dinner. The walls are lined with different hot sauce options, and the sweet potato polenta can’t be beat. Chicago is a great place for food of all cultures. Oasis Café on Jeweler’s Row is an excellent spot for falafel and other Mediterranean treats. If you’re fond of farm-to-table local food exploration, the Stock Café is a wonderful stop for the sandwich special. Be ready to do some hunting when you’re looking to dine at a hidden gem in Chicago, as not all addresses are easy to locate. Also, be aware that many places don’t take credit cards, so you will need cash to cover your bill.
Your Chicago trip can include all of the popular attractions, and they deserve your attention. But don’t forget about the lesser-known but still fun alternative options, like boat cruises and historical landmarks. This city is a wonderful place to explore and has something fun for every member of the family.
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]]>Chicago is home to more moving bridges than any other city in the world, and the DuSable Bridge may be among the best known in the city, according to the Chicago Architecture Center. It was built in 1920 and is located near the home of famous historical figure Jean Baptiste Point Du Sable. The bridge is also located near other recognizable structures such as Tribune Tower and Wrigley buildings. You will likely be able to see a portion of these structures while traveling on the Chicago River.
There are many steps that you can take to ensure your safety and the safety of others while on a boat. For instance, according to Viles & Beckman, simply wearing a life jacket can prevent the majority of boating accident deaths. This is because you are less likely to drown in the immediate aftermath of a collision, which gives rescuers time to get to your location. You should never consume alcohol or anything else that could impair your judgment before driving a boat. Doing so can result in slower reaction time as well as an inability to process information in a timely manner. Therefore, you put yourself at a higher risk of driving too fast for water conditions or making other reckless decisions that could result in an accident. Finally, be sure that you have a thorough understanding of how to operate a boat before you decide to rent one. If you aren’t skilled enough to do so, ask a friend or relative to serve as the captain for your next ride. It may also be possible to hire someone to operate a boat for you.
In the event that you are involved in an accident, it is important to stay at the scene of the crash. According to the US Coast Guard, you should call the authorities to come to your location to render aid to anyone who may need it. When the authorities arrive, you will have an opportunity to make a statement and obtain information from other parties involved in the accident. There is a chance that you could be asked to take a chemical test to rule out drugs or alcohol playing a role in the crash.
Renting a boat and taking a tour of the Chicago River can be a great way to spend a day in the Windy City. However, be sure that you make the safety of everyone on board your top priority. Ideally, you will inspect the boat before taking off to minimize the chances of an incident occurring.
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]]>The post Key Points for an Awesome Boating Adventure in Chicago appeared first on Chicago Boat Rentals.
]]>Even though boat tours should be fun and relaxing, you must remain vigilant about safety. The best tours are the ones in which everyone returns to shore happy, healthy, and ready to go boating again soon. The captain of your boat should be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Pay attention to the location of life vests and first aid kits. General boat safety rules are also important and should never be disregarded or ignored.
Weather plays a big role in boat safety, so consult the forecast ahead of time. There’s a good reason that Chicago is called the Windy City. If there’s significant rain or wind predicted, consider postponing your boat trip. Ask the tour company about its weather cancellation policy. Increase your boat safety by arriving prepared for your tour. Wear sunscreen and non-skid shoes. Bring medication if you’re prone to seasickness.
Boating snacks serve two purposes. First of all, they’re delicious. In addition, keeping food in your stomach is a great way to fend off seasickness. You don’t want to be too hungry or too full. Many boat tours provide extensive buffets. If not, ask if you can bring along your own food. Hearty bread is a great choice for keeping your stomach calm.
Chicago is known for its bagel bakeries, and these round rolls make a perfectly portable snack to eat on your trip. Deli sandwiches and pieces of whole fruit are other good choices. You may want to save greasier treats for after your boat ride. Consider stopping on the way back to your hotel for a classic Chicago meal like deep-dish pizza or Italian beef sandwiches with giardiniera.
When you’re planning to take a Chicago boat trip, you’ll have to decide if you’d like to join a public tour or book a private excursion. Public tours give you opportunities to meet new people, but you won’t have control over who’s in your party. Before you purchase tickets for a public boat trip, think about what kind of setting you’d enjoy.
Family tours are a great choice if you have kids with you, but seek out an adults-only trip if you’d prefer a party atmosphere. Private tours cost more and usually require a minimum number of guests, but they let you choose exactly who’s with you on the trip. When planning a private excursion, pick friends who will appreciate the focus on your outing. For example, if your goal is to see famous Chicago landmarks like Willis Tower, invite friends who are into tourism and architecture.
Taking a boat tour is one of the best ways to explore the city of Chicago. With proper safety precautions, delicious food, and fun friends, you’ll make unforgettable memories out on the water.
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]]>The post The Views! appeared first on Chicago Boat Rentals.
]]>Everyone has walked around the city and visited its landmarks. The Bean, the Riverwalk, Navy Pier, etc. Let me tell you how different it is experiencing Chicago’s sight seeing spots on a sidewalk versus riding down the river yourself. (WAY BETTER)
The perspective you get while driving the boat is unique. You can see how crystal clear the water is as it’s splashing upon the side of the boat.You will stretch your neck trying to gaze at how tall the buildings are. And trust me, people will be pointing and waving at you because the want to rent their own boat too!
Even though the city’s buildings remain the same, it will look different throughout the day. Usually I spend my mornings crabby and half asleep. It’s hard to remain that way when the water sparkles in the sunshine and flows peacefully as you glide down the river. Chicago traffic in the morning is a nightmare but riding down the river is soothing and calming. As the day goes on, the city does get busier. One of my favorite times to hop on a boat is while the sun is setting and getting ready for the moon. The colors of the sky is something a picture can’t even capture. Once night time comes around, it is a blast! Everyone is blasting their music. The river is crowded and surrounded by bright city lights. On Wednesday’s and Saturday’s you can not miss the fireworks at Navy Pier!
With Chicago Boat Rentals, you will be surprised on how many new things you will see and experience. Even if you grew up in the city. You won’t be able to rent with us just once. You will most definitely want to come again and show all your friends.
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