Students on the recent Chicago Ambassadors took the “skyscraper canyon” tour of Chicago  - on kayaks.

The Center for Chicago Programs, along with Chicago Ambassador Kari Bailey ‘13, planned a kayak tour of downtown Chicago along the Chicago River. “It’s a view of the city not many people get to see up close,” explains Bailey, who has previously led Chicago Ambassador trips to the Chicago Christkindlemarket and Art Institute. Chicago Ambassadors are Lake Forest students who work closely with the Center for Chicago Programs to plan excursions to the city for fellow students.

Participants took the 8:24 a.m. train into the city and started their tour from the famous Lawrence Avenue Fish Market on the edge of Chinatown. From there they paddled through downtown Chicago, past River City, the Willis Tower, and the Opera House, and on to the forks of the river. As with all Chicago Ambassador trips, this one was free, though students needed to bring money for lunch.

“Gliding through the steel and concrete canyons of the Chicago River gave me a completely different perspective on this dynamic city. Being able to view Chicago through the calm waters underneath the busy streets above, was peaceful and unlike anything I have ever experienced in Chicago before, says Joanna Becker ‘13. I am so thankful Lake Forest College students have access to such great activities through the Ambassador’s Program.”  

“Chicago Ambassador trips are popular and students sign up fast when they are announced,” explains Center for Chicago Programs’ Coordinator Jennie Larsen.

For more information about the Center for Chicago Programs or the Chicago Ambassadors Program, contact Jennie Larsen.