Clark Park Boathouse Ready to Take a Dip

Friday will mark the start of smooth waters as the Clark Park Boathouse opens for rowers. 

Originally scheduled to open in August, rain and electrical wiring delayed completion until this month. A grand opening is set for Oct. 19 at the boathouse, 3400 N. Rockwell St. 

While the facility will be home to both the Chicago Rowing Foundation and rowers from North Park University, residents aren’t excluded from the boathouse. Anyone can come during open times to use the indoor rowing tank, canoe or kayak. Fitness classes are also on the horizon.

Chicago River Canoe and Kayak will be renting boats from 1 to 6 p.m. Fridays through September and Saturday and Sundays through October from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Prices start at $15 an hour for a single kayak and go to the day rate of $80 for a canoe or tandem kayak. Rowers can reserve a boat by emailing info@chicagoriverpaddle.com.

The 20,000 square foot facility totals $7.4 million, with $1 million coming from tax increment finance funds. The Chicago Park District and private donors paid for the rest of the cost.

With storage bays for boats, locker and training rooms and an indoor practice tank, the boathouse will be one of the best in the Midwest, according to CRF.