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  • HOME
  • PRIVATE TOURS
  • TOURS
    • HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE TOUR
    • GHOSTS AND GANGSTERS TOUR
    • SUNSET PADDLE
    • MOONLIGHT PADDLE
    • OUR PONZI: CHARACTERS AND CONS TOUR
    • NAVY PIER FIREWORKS PADDLE
  • RENTALS
    • RENTALS
    • GROUP PADDLES
  • ROWING
  • NORTHWEST
    • CAMP NATILILAS
  • INFO
    • ABOUT US
    • FAQ
    • PARKING
    • DIRECTIONS
    • TERMS AND CONDITIONS
    • CANCELLATION POLICY
    • JOBS
    • Contact Us
  • GIFTS
  • BOOK A TOUR
    • Downtown
    • Northwest

OUR PONZI: CHICAGO CHARACTERS AND CONS TOUR

OUR PONZI: CHICAGO CHARACTERS AND CONS TOUR

THE STORY OF LEO KORETZ AND HIS EPIC 1920's CON
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This tour chronicles the rise – and eventual fall – of Leo Koretz, the most wanted con man in the world in the world in the late 1920’s. It is a story of a con of epic proportions in Jazz Age Chicago, and also covers the infamous Leopold and Loeb murder case and its link to Koretz.

While kayaking through the cavernous downtown section of the river, we explore the shocking tale about how a sizable portion Chicago’s moneyed elite were suckered into buying fraudulent shares of a fictional trust. Fueled by greed and status in a prosperous time, this high-profile case showcases some of the dark sides of success.

As our newest tour, we are excited to be sharing this story!

TOUR DETAILS

  • When
    Schedule and Current Availability
  • Duration
    On-water: ~2 hours
    Orientation/Launch: ~25 minutes
  • Ticket Price
    $65 per adult
    $45 per child (under 16)
  • Options
    Children too small to paddle can ride in the middle of a double kayak (between two adults) at no extra charge. Parental discretion is advised for this tour.
  • Inclusions
    Single or double kayak (choose upon arrival), life vest, paddle, guide(s), safety orientation, paddling lesson, tasty treats!
  • Attire
    Comfortable, water-friendly clothing and shoes are suggested, as you can get wet. "Athleisure" is a popular choice. Denim not recommended. Dress for the weather on the day of the event.
  • Weight limits
    Single kayak - 275 lbs (approx.); Double kayak - 475 lbs (approx.)
  • Private Option
    If you are interested in this tour, but are unable to go at one of our scheduled times, please send us an email at info@wateriders.com to request a private or semi-private tour!

TOUR ITINERARY

1

ORIENTATION

At the beginning of each tour, we teach the basics of flat water kayaking and brief our guests on river safety in a 10 minute orientation.

2

PADDLE ADVENTURE

We paddle as a group to a series of locations that we have chosen for the view and their historical significance. Our guides make sure everyone stays safe from boat traffic and obstacles.

3

CHARACTERS AND CONS

Some of Chicago's most colorful characters, like Leo Koretz, were the ones who did business the wrong way. On our adventure, we shed light on the unbelievable story of Mr. Koretz and his major swindle.

4

CONCLUSION

Take some final snapshots of the gorgeous skyline before a short paddle back to the dock, where we assist everyone out of the water.

  • Louise G.: Quick instruction on river etiquette and we were launched. Lovely people and great launch site. Will definitely go back next time.
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  • Giovanni M.: From beginning to end the crew and workers were very polite and informed us about everything we needed to know beforehand
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  • Jessica C: Kayaking was a lot of fun! Very friendly tour guide and all levels of kayakers welcome and comfortable...
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Tours

  • PRIVATE TOURS
  • HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE TOUR
  • GHOSTS AND GANGSTERS TOUR
  • SUNSET PADDLE
  • MOONLIGHT PADDLE
  • OUR PONZI: CHARACTERS AND CONS TOUR
  • NAVY PIER FIREWORKS PADDLE
  • KAYAK RENTALS
East Bank Club Riverwalk
500 N Kingsbury St.
Chicago, IL, 60654
Kinzie St Bridge

Northwest
3057 North Rockwell St.
Chicago, IL 60618
+1 312-953-9287

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Website by Tourismtiger
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