Chicago Harbors

🐾 Happy National Dog Day to our favorite first mates.

From dock walks to days on the lake, Chicago’s harbors are always better with a four-legged crew member along for the ride.

Monroe by moonlight. 🌙

Slow down and stay alert inside Chicago’s harbors.

Observe no-wake zones, maintain a safe distance from docks and other vessels, and remember that your wake can create dangerous conditions for boaters, paddlers and people working along the waterfront.

Learn more about safely navigating no-wake zones: https://www.discoverboating.com/resources/what-is-a-no-wake-zone

This safety message is presented by Progressive, a proud sponsor of the Chicago Park District

Join us Saturday, August 22 from 9 AM–12 PM at the Burnham Harbor Fish House for a special Oax Haus Coffee House pop-up featuring coffee, lattes, donuts and churros.

Stop by, grab a morning treat and say hello to former Burnham Harbor Master Cathy as she launches her new coffee venture!

📍 Burnham Harbor Fish House, in front of M Dock

It doesn’t get more Chicago Air & Water Show than planes overhead and boats on the lake. ✈️⚓

Were you out there this weekend? Send us your best Air & Water Show photos and videos — we’d love to see the show from your view on the water.

Chicago weather can change quickly—especially on Lake Michigan.

Always check the marine forecast before leaving the harbor, continue monitoring conditions while underway and have a plan for seeking shelter if storms approach.
Darkening skies, a sudden drop in temperature and increasing or shifting winds can all signal that it’s time to head back to port.

Learn how to read marine forecasts and recognize changing conditions: https://www.discoverboating.com/ownership/safety/weather-for-boaters

This safety message is presented by Progressive, a proud sponsor of the Chicago Park District.

😎 One of our favorite weekends on the water is quickly approaching! What are your on-the-water tips for the Chicago Air & Water Show this weekend?

Before heading out on Lake Michigan, make sure someone on shore knows your plan.

A float plan should include where you’re going, who is onboard, a description of your boat and when you expect to return. Leave it with a trusted friend or family member—and let them know what to do if you don’t check in.

Learn how to create a float plan before your next trip: https://www.discoverboating.com/videos/how-to-create-a-float-plan-essential-boating-safety-tips

This safety message is presented by Progressive, a proud sponsor of the Chicago Park District.

👉 A kind reminder to please slow down and protect your fellow boaters.

Chicago’s harbors are no-wake zones.

Operating at no-wake speed helps prevent injuries, protects docked boats and harbor infrastructure, and keeps conditions safer for everyone.

Reduce speed before entering the harbor and remain at no-wake speed until you are fully outside the harbor.

Heading out after sunset? A little preparation goes a long way. 🌙

Before leaving the harbor, run through this night boating checklist:

➡️ Confirm your navigation lights are working
➡️ Have properly fitted life jackets readily accessible
➡️ Keep a waterproof flashlight within reach
➡️ Check the weather and charge your phone or radio
➡️ Review your route and watch for unlit hazards
➡️ Reduce speed and allow extra time to identify other vessels
➡️ Designate a sober operator

Night boating can offer some of the best views of Chicago—but visibility is limited, so stay alert and take it slow.