
by Kristen Kucharski
WAVES OF FUN
I personally have yet to meet someone who does not love jet skiing! It is a thrilling experience being on the open water, driving in the upwards of 35 mph, jumping waves, and cruising with a freedom like no other.
Living so close to the DuPage and Fox Rivers as well as Lake Michigan, one would think jet skiing options would be plentiful; however, there are few places that provide rentals along the shorelines, so we were excited to visit the 31st Street Harbor and see the opportunity available with Chicago Water Sport Rentals.

Although you must be 23 years old to rent, a person any age can be a rider on a jet ski if they are accompanied by their parent or legal guardian; so, this makes for a fun family activity as well as an exciting day on the water with friends or a date!
Having not been in the city for quite some time since the COVID shutdown, it was awesome to appreciate the southern view of the Chicago Skyline from the water. Dock J was bustling with people at Salerno’s Nautical Playpen, enjoying a bite to eat, a cool drink, and swimming in the pool that appeared to float in the middle of Lake Michigan.

Beyond jet skis, Chicago Water Sports also rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, with the addition of boats soon to come! The waters in the 31st Street Harbor are calm and peaceful as it is a no-wake zone, so if you are a beginner, this is the perfect opportunity to get comfortable with a jet ski, paddleboard, or kayak; however, if you are an old pro, you are just a short drive to the open waters of Lake Michigan which allows for full throttle and unlimited wave action.
This is a fantastic way to spend a summer day close to home with the feeling of being at a waterfront resort.

OVERVIEW
Chicago Water Sports Rentals offers all the summer fun one could ask for with 30 minute and 1 hour jet ski rentals, kayak, boat, and stand-up paddleboard rentals. Located next to boat launch and Salerno’s Nautical Playpen, renters are sure to create lasting waterfront memories along the Chicago Skyline!
Chicago Water Sport Rentals
31st Street Harbor, Dock J, Chicago
(312) 924-7994
Hours: Daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Price $: Price Varies Depending on Rental
ABOUT THE WRITER
Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. Read her past columns at www.glancermagazine.com/bloggers