Biking, rollerblading and skateboarding around Chicago this summer just got better. With more than 18 miles of paved paths along the Lakefront Trail, there are some fantastic places to ride‘n’ roll. And if your tires are low on air or you don’t own a bike or rollerblades, there are plenty of places you can rent them—just be sure to wear your helmet, no matter how funny it looks.
Grab the kids and go riding around Chicago with Bike Chicago. Kids can explore four different lakefront locations on quadricycle bikes. Bike rental costs range from $8.95 per hour for single use to $64 for the full day for buddy bikes.
If you’re not in the bike mood, then rent rollerblades for $7.95 per hour or $29 for the full day. The scenic tours will keep kids entertained from Buckingham Fountain to the Lincoln Park Zoo. Visit www.bikechicago.com for more information. Helmets, locks and maps are free with rentals. Kids 9 and up (recommended).
Bike Chicago has the following locations and hours in the city: At Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Call (312) 595-9600. At Millennium Park, 239 E. Randolph St. 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m. weekdays, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. weekends. Call (888) BIKE-WAY (245-3929). At North Avenue Beach, 1603 N. Lake Shore Drive. 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Call (773) 327-2706. At Foster Beach, 5200 N. Lake Shore Drive. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily Memorial Day-Labor Day. Call (773) 275-2600.
Bobby’s Bike Hike, 465 N. McClurg Court, Chicago, features group tours for schools and camps, family reunions and corporate events. Take a two- to three-hour tour, which features Chicago highlights including Soldier Field and the Museum Campus. Bikes can be rented for half or full days. Prices vary and you can save 10 percent online. Kids’ bikes and equipment are available. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Call (312) 915-0995 or visit www.bobbysbikehike.com for more information.
There’s a new twist on skateboarding with the Chicago Park District’s two skate parks, which give kids the opportunity to soak in sunshine while doing some serious skateboarding. The skate parks offer an assortment of curbs and rails for daring stunts. Beginners to competitive skateboarders welcome. Located at 31st Street and the lake and Wilson Avenue (4600 North) and the lake. Open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, weather permitting. Free. Call (312) 742-PLAY (7529) or visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com for more information.
