Water Course
In Chicago, Illinois, the Chinatown Dragon Boat Races on the Chicago River offers a unique motorsport racing experience. As a water course, it hosts dragon boat competitions and festivals. With competitive racing and a community event atmosphere, this venue is a great destination. For the current schedule, consider calling ahead.
Dragon BoatFestivalCompetitive RacingCommunity EventChicago River
Watch: Chinatown Dragon Boat Races (Chicago River)
Know Before You Go
- Race schedule
- Powerboat venues typically host race weekends 3-8 times per season under APBA, OPC, or local sanction. Check the calendar — most weeks are open practice or quiet.
- Spectator access
- Shore-line viewing from a beach or pier is the standard vantage. Bring polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and a chair — boat racing is a sunny stand-around sport.
- Class variety
- Look for tunnel boats, hydroplanes, jet boats, and offshore depending on water size. Race speeds range from 60 mph (small inland) to 180+ mph (offshore unlimited).