Chicago winters are brutal. But they serve one purpose: they give us time to plan for the best summer boating season in the country.
Whether you spend your weekends tied up in the "Playpen" off Navy Pier, cruising the Chicago River, or running the Chain O'Lakes, you know that space and logistics are the biggest challenges.
That is why we are heading to the Discover Boating Chicago Boat Show (January 28 – February 1) at its NEW LOCATION in Rosemont. We are here to prove you don't need a waitlisted slip at Burnham Harbor to own a serious boat.
Rover Marine will be stationed at Booth A600, hosted by our partner POP Board Co. We are bringing the ultimate "No-Slip" fleet to the Windy City.
Where to Find Us: Booth A600 (The POP Board Co. Display)
We are teaming up with POP Board Co. to create the ultimate booth for Chicago boaters. Look for the POP Board Co. banners at Booth A600.
1. The "No-Harbor-Fees" Solution: Rover Battle Boat
Chicago harbor fees are skyrocketing, and the waitlists are long. The Rover Battle Boat solves this. It is a rigid, high-performance inflatable sport boat that rolls up into a bag.
- Three Sizes for Every Need: Whether you need a compact tender or a full-sized runabout, we have you covered. We offer 8ft, 10ft, and 12ft models.
- Apartment Friendly: Live in a condo in River North or the Gold Coast? Even our 12' model packs down to fit in a storage locker or closet.
- Chain O'Lakes Ready: Skip the trailer traffic. Throw the Rover in your trunk, drive up to the Chain, and launch anywhere. It drafts inches of water, perfect for getting into shallow fishing spots others can't reach.
2. The Playpen Upgrade: POP Docks
If you boat in Chicago, you know the "Playpen." It’s the place to be, but deck space is always tight. At Booth A600, check out the POP Up Docks.
These inflatable platforms tie to your swim grid, instantly creating an 8x7 foot "back porch" on the water. It’s a game-changer for tie-ups, giving you extra room for coolers, lounging, and jumping in the lake without crowding the cockpit.
Chicago Boat Show Guide: What You Need to Know
This year, the show has moved. Here is everything you need to know to navigate the 2026 show like a pro:
The New Location
The show is NO LONGER at McCormick Place. It is now located at:
- Venue: Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Center
- Address: 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont, IL 60018
- Why it’s great: Easier parking ($15) and closer to the suburbs!
Helpful Logistics
- Tickets: Buy Online Here. Note: There are NO cash sales at the door (credit card kiosks only). Tickets are valid for one day only.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair rentals are available for $50/day.
Show Schedule (Booth A600)
- Wednesday (1/28): 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Thursday (1/29): 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Friday (1/30): 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday (1/31): 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Sunday (2/1): 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
See You in Rosemont
Don't let another summer go by wishing you had a boat, or wishing you had more space on the one you own. Come see the rigidity of the Battle Boat and the utility of the POP Docks in person.
Questions before the show? Call us at 844-207-6837 or check out our motor options here.
