Chicago Adventure Pass: Bike, Kayak and Swim

Thinking about ways to experience Chicago beyond the usual city tours? The Chicago Outdoor Adventure Pass offers a compelling mix of activities that highlight the city’s natural beauty and vibrant waterfront. For approximately $80, you get access to bike rentals, kayak or paddleboard experiences, and swimming at Ohio Street Beach—all flexible over 1 to 3 days, letting you explore at your own pace.

What we love about this pass are the scenic views of Lake Michigan, the easy access to iconic landmarks, and the value for money—especially since it combines multiple outdoor pursuits into one affordable package. The flexibility to spread activities over several days means you can enjoy Chicago’s lakeside in a relaxed, unhurried manner. One potential consideration is that weather plays a big role; on rainy or overly windy days, some activities might be less enjoyable or limited.

This experience is perfect for active travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with physical activity. If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and fun way to see Chicago’s waterfront, this pass could work well. Now, let’s get into the details that make this outdoor adventure so appealing.

Good To Know

• Flexible Multi-Day Use: Enjoy activities over 1 to 3 days, ideal for customizing your trip.
• Stunning Lake Views: Biking along the lakefront trail and kayaking on Lake Michigan offers breathtaking cityscape backdrops.
• All-Inclusive Value: Combines biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming for a reasonable price.
• Authentic Chicago Vibes: Discover local landmarks, sandy beaches, and vibrant parks with outdoor activities.
• Weather Dependency: Activities are weather-dependent, so plan for sunny days for the best experience.
• Pure Outdoor Fun: Perfect for those who prefer active, outdoor exploration over traditional sightseeing.

How the Chicago Adventure Pass Translates into an Exciting Day or Few Days Out

The Chicago Adventure Pass offers a well-rounded outdoor experience that balances exercise with sightseeing. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this pass allows you to engage with the city’s natural spots, particularly Lake Michigan’s shoreline, which is one of Chicago’s best features.

Biking Along the Lakefront Trail

The biking segment is an undeniable highlight. You get half a day (about 4 hours) to pedal along the 20-mile car-free Lakefront Trail, stretching from Evanston in the north to the South Shore Culture Center. This ride isn’t just about covering ground; it’s about soaking up some of Chicago’s most iconic sights—Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, and even glimpses of Wrigley Field.

The trail’s car-free nature means no traffic stress, making it suitable for casual riders and families alike. Many reviews mention how relaxing and scenic the route is, with some noting that the trail is wide enough for groups to spread out comfortably. The trail also passes through lively neighborhoods and quiet parks, offering variety in scenery and atmosphere. Plus, with the possibility to stop at various points, you can grab a snack or take photos whenever you like.

Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Michigan

Next, the water activities on Lake Michigan are where this pass really stands out. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard for up to 2 hours at Ohio Street Beach, a popular spot thanks to its view of the Chicago skyline and the calming breakwall. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxing paddle.

Many reviews have praised the spectacular skyline views from the water, with some calling it an “Instagram-worthy” experience. Photographers and social media lovers will especially enjoy the backdrop of skyscrapers reflecting on the lake’s surface. The breakwall helps to keep the water calm and clear, making the activity more enjoyable and less intimidating for newcomers.

Swimming at Ohio Street Beach

After some paddling, you can take advantage of the VIP locker service included with the pass and enjoy a swim at Ohio Street Beach. The beach itself is highly rated for clean sand, clear water, and accessibility. The VIP lockers mean you don’t have to worry about your belongings while you relax in the water—just grab your towel and enjoy a swim with the skyline in view.

Reviewers mention the convenience of the locker service and the beach’s ideal location, close to the city’s main attractions but far enough away from the urban hustle for a peaceful dip. Lake Michigan’s waters tend to be cold, especially early in the season, but with the right gear, it’s a refreshing way to cool off.

The Lakefront Trail: A Scenic Pedal

If you want to extend your outdoor experience, the Lakefront Trail itself is a scenic route for biking or walking, stretching along the lake for about 20 miles. It provides an ever-changing view of Chicago’s architecture, beaches, and parks, making it more than just a route—it’s a moving panorama of the city’s waterfront vibe.

Travelers have noted that the trail feels like the “front yard” of Chicago, giving a unique perspective of the city’s skyline and the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan. It’s a loop that can be tackled in sections depending on your energy and time, perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The activities are conveniently based at Bobby’s Bike Hike and Ohio Street Beach, both accessible by public transportation in Chicago. The flexible hours (9 AM to 6 PM daily) provide plenty of options for planning around other sightseeing plans. Endpoints are the same as the starting points, simplifying logistics.

Price and Value: What Do You Get for $79.99?

At $79.99 per person, this pass offers excellent value, especially considering it covers multiple outdoor activities usually priced separately. Individual rentals for biking, kayaking, and swimming can easily cost $40-$60 each, so bundling them saves money and time.

By allowing you to choose how to spread out the activities, it caters to different energy levels and schedules. You can spend a day on water, or combine it with a relaxed bike ride over several days. The free VIP locker service adds practical convenience, making transitions between activities effortless.

Many users feel the price is justified, noting they received good quality equipment and enjoyed the flexibility. The pass is also a great way to try different activities you might not normally plan—like paddleboarding—without the full commitment to rental costs or equipment.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Bobby’s Bike Hike — The bike rental is a highlight. The company is known for friendly staff and well-maintained bikes, according to reviews. You get four hours to explore at your own pace along the car-free trail. The route passes major landmarks, parks, neighborhoods, and beaches, making it a comprehensive outdoor tour.

Stop 2: Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding — The rentals at Ohio Street Beach give you access to calm waters with arguably some of the best skyline views in Chicago. Reviewers mention that it’s suitable for all skill levels, and the calm waters create a relaxing vibe. The opportunity for photos here is high, especially with the city’s architecture as a backdrop.

Stop 3: Lakefront Trail — This scenic route connects your biking and water activities, offering an immersive lakeside experience. Pedaling along the trail, you’ll pass sandy beaches, parks, and architectural marvels, making it a true cityscape adventure.

Stop 4: Ohio Street Beach — The final stop provides a stress-free spot for swimming and relaxing, with the added bonus of VIP lockers. The beach’s cleanliness and convenient location are regularly mentioned as positives.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Adventure

• Plan your activities around the weather — clear, sunny days will maximize your enjoyment of water activities and biking.
• Bring your camera or smartphone — the skyline views from both the water and the trail are stunning.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen — especially for biking and swimming.
• Book early or arrive on time — the activities are popular, and equipment availability can vary.
• Allocate enough time for each activity — while 4 hours per activity is the set duration, you might want to extend or take breaks in between.
• Use public transportation for easy access to the meeting points—both are centrally located and well-connected.

The Sum Up

The Chicago Adventure Pass: Bike, Kayak, and Swim offers an authentic way to enjoy the city’s spectacular lakeside scenery while staying active. It’s a brilliant choice for those who want to blend sightseeing with outdoor pursuits without breaking the bank. The flexibility, combined with the quality of the experiences, makes it ideal for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

While weather can be a limiting factor, on a good day this pass provides an invigorating, picturesque, and fun-filled way to experience Chicago’s natural side. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer active days over traditional museum visits and who want to see the city from a different perspective—on the water and along the lakefront.

In short, if you’re in Chicago and craving outdoor fun with stunning views, this pass could be your perfect companion. Just remember to check the weather forecast and plan your schedule to make the most of these scenic activities.

FAQ

Is this pass valid for multiple days?
Yes, you can use the activities over 1 to 3 days, giving you flexibility to spread out your adventures.

What is included in the pass?
It includes a 4-hour bike rental, a 2-hour kayak or paddleboard rental, and a 2-hour swim at Ohio Street Beach, plus VIP locker service for swimming.

Can I participate if I am a beginner?
Absolutely. The calm waters at Ohio Street Beach and the easy, car-free trail make these activities accessible for all skill levels.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check the specific requirements for biking, kayaking, and swimming, especially for younger children.

What are the operating hours?
Activities are available daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, with the flexibility to start and finish activities within this window.

Do I need to book in advance?
Confirmation is received at booking, but it’s recommended to book early during peak seasons to secure equipment and preferred times.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the meeting points is not included, but both are accessible by public transit.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, comfortable clothing, a camera, and any personal items you want to keep dry or safe during water activities.

What if the weather is poor?
The pass is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity, ensuring peace of mind.

Whether you’re a city explorer or an outdoor lover, this outdoor adventure pass showcases Chicago’s lakeside charm with a mix of activity and scenic beauty. It’s a fun, flexible, and value-packed way to experience some of the best outdoor spots in the Windy City.