When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Underwater Safaris
Why Underwater Safaris is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Underwater Safaris stands out as Chicago's only PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Center, making it an exceptional destination for scuba diving enthusiasts and snorkelers alike. Established in 1983 and located conveniently in the Lakeview neighborhood, the center offers a remarkable 84-degree in-store pool and over 3,000 square feet dedicated to diver education, equipment sales, rentals, repairs, and travel. This extensive setup makes it an ideal meetup spot for friends who want to embark on underwater adventures together or learn new diving skills in a supportive environment. Besides providing access to a wide selection of dive equipment from top manufacturers like Aqualung, Scubapro, and Mares, Underwater Safaris offers a complete range of PADI certification courses. These range from beginner scuba diver certifications to advanced and specialty diver programs, including instructor training, all taught by fully certified and insured instructors. Not only scuba divers but also snorkelers can enjoy the experience here, with expert guidance available to find the best fitting masks, fins, and wetsuits. Their classes and social trips further foster a sense of community, making it a great place to meet up, learn, and explore the underwater world together. The staff's friendly expertise enhances the welcoming atmosphere for both newcomers and seasoned divers.
Here's what people think of Underwater Safaris
As of recent, Underwater Safaris holds a 4.8-star rating based on 117 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Underwater Safaris for its professional instruction, warm atmosphere, and excellent facilities. Many customers appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly staff who make learning to dive comfortable and enjoyable, boosting confidence and safety skills. Positive reviews often mention specific instructors like Frank and Ashton, praising their teaching methods and approachable personalities. Reviewers also value the convenient location in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood and the well-maintained, warm pool that enhances the learning experience. The availability of sponsored diving trips is another favored aspect, extending the adventure beyond the classroom and pool. On the other hand, negative feedback is quite limited but includes occasional mentions of scheduling challenges and the need for improved communication on some occasions. Some users have noted that the price of equipment or courses can be on the higher side, but many feel it aligns with the quality of service and expertise provided. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong reputation for quality and customer satisfaction, reinforcing Underwater Safaris as a trusted and enjoyable place for scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts of all levels to gather and learn.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Bridget A
We did our pool work for scuba cert here. The instructor was fantastic, incredibly patient and worked well with a group that ranged from 12 to 60. However, the store manager was another story. We showed up with smaller fins, completely appropriate for a tiny pool. He refused to let us take the course until we dropped hundreds on fins and boots that met his arbitrary standards. He was so rude I wondered if I was being pranked. Incredibly disappointing, condescending and completely ruined our experience. If not for the instructor, I doubt we would have continued diving. The large fins were annoying with a large group in a small pool and he delayed the start of our class. This happened two years ago so I’m not sure if he’s still there. I emailed the owner right after but never heard back. We’ve gone on to dive many times all over the world and I’m glad we didn’t let one jerk ruin our experience.
Samuel Ciochon
Def recommend this small family run business! This place was amazing! They made us feel right at home before and during our classes! We tried to go to another place that was a non for profit, and the time line was too long and it cost more money! Underwater Safaris was able to get us in within days and was a lot less expensive. They have a great indoor pool attached with a small class size. My bestie and I were the only ones in the class. Ultimately, Alex the instructor was badass! Thank you so much guys!
T Makar
My experience (so far) at underwater safaris has been amazing! I first became interested in scuba diving back in 2014 when I did it for the first time and had kept it in my thoughts as something I might want to pursue. This year many years later I decided i wanted to try it again! I signed up and have so far had such a life changing experience! Hannah was my confined water instructor and she has been an amazing teacher for me! I learn very differently from other people and was amazed and happy to have Hannah be my instructor! She has been very nice, fun, and patient with me! My second dive I had trouble with my buoyancy skills and I was able to come back and have Hannah help me pass it by myself and I was able to pass! Would definitely recommend underwater safaris to anyone who wants to become a diver!
Lori Pontious
Underwater Safaris is amazing. I purchased all my scuba equipment and enrolled in their certification as well as refresher class. Lotte was an especially talented instructor because of her teaching style and patience.
Sophie Redpath
I did my open water pool dives here, and I highly recommend! Orest was a fantastic instructor, he explained everything completely and simply, and catered to all the levels of the group paying special attention if someone needed extra assurance or guidance. He was very knowledgeable (and funny!) and had lots of great stories, I left feeling confident and well prepared for the open water dives.
How to reach Underwater Safaris
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Why Underwater Safaris may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Underwater Safaris with your friends? Because it offers an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance, making it an ideal gathering spot for groups seeking to bond, explore, and create lasting memories. Whether you are novices or seasoned divers, Underwater Safaris ensures every participant feels safe, welcomed, and involved through top-tier customer service and knowledgeable staff. The stunning underwater landscapes teeming with vibrant marine life provide a captivating backdrop for shared stories and collective awe, enhancing the connection with both nature and each other. This place is not just about diving — it’s about immersing yourself in an experience that sparks excitement, curiosity, and camaraderie among friends and family. The combination of pristine waters, meticulously maintained equipment, and friendly, safety-conscious instructors makes Underwater Safaris a standout destination for a meetup. Groups can enjoy the thrill of discovering underwater worlds together, reinforcing bonds through shared adventure, making this the perfect rally point for your next outing.
What activities can you enjoy at Underwater Safaris? Underwater Safaris provides a wide range of activities centered primarily on scuba diving and snorkeling, each tailored to different experience levels and group dynamics. The business offers guided scuba dives where certified instructors lead groups through exquisite underwater habitats rich with marine life such as seals, colorful fish, and fascinating seabeds. For beginners, there are PADI Open Water dive courses and refresher sessions that allow newcomers to learn essential diving skills in a safe, supportive environment that includes pool training and classroom sessions. Additionally, snorkeling excursions are available for those who prefer to explore the surface and gentle waters with simple gear, making it accessible to all ages, including children. Their dive masters and crew support all activities with expert knowledge of local marine fauna and safety procedures, ensuring every dive or snorkel is engaging and secure. For groups, these options offer flexibility since members can choose adventures matching their confidence and interest levels, allowing everyone to participate and enjoy the outing together.
Why is Underwater Safaris perfect for a group meetup? The atmosphere at Underwater Safaris is highly conducive to group enjoyment because the staff focus on personalized care and comprehensive safety. Their friendly assistants go above and beyond to accommodate families and groups, making even young children feel comfortable and adventurous. The natural setting, particularly the scenic waters of the Narooma region, delivers a breathtaking and shared experience that is hard to match. The company’s commitment to excellent customer service ensures that planning for groups is smooth, with clear communication, adaptable scheduling, and attentive support—whether it’s arranging gear or accommodating special requests. Groups can bond over shared lessons, thrilling dives, or relaxing boat rides, complemented by small touches like hospitality on board, including tea and cookies, which creates a warm, communal vibe. The combination of professional guidance, outstanding environment, and genuine care from the staff cultivates an ideal space where groups can engage fully, making your meetup enjoyable, seamless, and memorable.
How does Underwater Safaris ensure safety and learning for all group members? Safety and education are pillars of the Underwater Safaris experience, especially important when hosting groups with members of varying skill levels. Their instructors are not only highly trained and experienced but also exceptionally patient and encouraging, helping divers build confidence at every step. For those new to diving, dedicated training sessions start in a controlled pool environment where essential skills such as mask clearing, buoyancy control, and breathing techniques under water are practiced safely before entering open waters. The dive masters' intimate knowledge of the local underwater ecosystem allows them to guide groups through safe and fascinating routes, avoiding hazardous areas while maximizing wildlife encounters. Moreover, equipment is meticulously maintained and fitted individually to each participant, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the activities. Regular safety briefings and continual monitoring during excursions further ensure that groups can relax and focus on the experience, knowing they are in expert hands. This creates a supportive learning environment that promotes enthusiasm and confidence for group members of all ages and abilities.
What makes the location and environment at Underwater Safaris extraordinary? Situated in one of Australia’s most picturesque coastal areas, Underwater Safaris provides access to clear, pristine waters rich in diverse marine life. This natural beauty enhances the adventure for groups, offering not only underwater exploration but also stunning boat rides and coast views above water. The abundance of wildlife, including curious seals and colorful fish, transforms each dive or snorkel into a unique discovery journey. The local ecosystem’s health ensures vibrant underwater scenes that serve as a living classroom and a playground for nature lovers. Additionally, the friendly, welcoming town and the company’s base offer convenient amenities and a relaxed ambiance that complement the adventure seamlessly. This combination of spectacular scenery, wildlife abundance, and quality facilities makes the destination itself a major draw for meetups wanting a refreshing, revitalizing experience away from the ordinary.
How does Underwater Safaris accommodate different group sizes and preferences? Underwater Safaris excels at tailoring their services to accommodate a wide range of group sizes—from intimate gatherings to larger parties—ensuring that every member gets personalized attention and a rewarding experience. Their flexible booking system and varied activity offerings support groups that may have different interests or skill levels, allowing some to dive, others to snorkel, and some even to participate in instructional programs simultaneously. The staff’s experience with families and mixed-age groups means they can provide specialized care and adapted gear for children and beginners, making it inclusive for everyone. Furthermore, their boats and facilities are designed to handle group logistics safely and comfortably, offering ample space and equipment. The attentiveness to customer needs, responsiveness to schedule changes, and thoughtful guidance through activity choices make planning group celebrations smooth and stress-free. This adaptability combined with expert care gives groups the freedom to customize their experience, ensuring a perfect fit for any meetup.
What experiences do customers highlight about Underwater Safaris? Customers consistently praise Underwater Safaris for their outstanding service, expertise, and welcoming atmosphere. Many describe how staff go above and beyond to accommodate special requests, communicate clearly, and create a fun and safe environment for all participants. The knowledgeable dive masters and assistants often receive special mention for their ability to engage with children and novices, turning first-time snorkelers and divers into confident adventurers. The natural beauty and vibrant marine life accessible from the operation are frequently celebrated as highlights of the visit, with some guests calling it the “best day of the holidays.” Positive reviews also focus on how the company handles unforeseen issues like weather interruptions with professionalism and attentive customer care, ensuring guests leave satisfied regardless of circumstances. These shared experiences point to Underwater Safaris as a place that not only delivers thrilling aquatic adventures but also fosters genuine connections between guests through their thoughtful approach and the magic of the underwater world.
What should you expect when booking a group outing to Underwater Safaris? Booking a group outing at Underwater Safaris is streamlined and customer-oriented. From the moment of initial contact, you can expect clear and friendly communication about available activities, gear requirements, and scheduling options. The team works closely with you to tailor the outing to your group’s particular needs, including accommodating children, beginners, or experienced divers all in one party. On your adventure day, you will be greeted by professional, approachable guides who assist with gearing up and offer thorough briefings to ensure everyone feels confident and prepared. Groups can relax on comfortable boats equipped to handle socializing and movement between dive sites comfortably. Throughout, safety remains paramount, with constant oversight by attentive staff. The company’s reputation for excellent customer service means that any unforeseen issues are handled swiftly, keeping the focus on having an enjoyable, memorable experience together. This level of preparation and care ensures your meetup runs smoothly, making planning easy and participation enjoyable for all involved.