Our World Underwater Comes to Chicago in 2023 - Explore the Windy City's Hidden Underwater Gems

Exploring the Underwater World in Chicago

The Windy City of Chicago, Illinois is not typically known for its underwater landscapes. However, the non-profit organization Our World Underwater is coming to Chicago in 2023 to showcase the amazing aquatic life and environments found right in the Midwest's backyard.

About Our World Underwater Chicago 2023

Our World Underwater is an annual consumer dive show that travels to a new location in North America each year. In 2023, Our World Underwater will be held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL from February 24-26.

This event gives scuba divers, freedivers, snorkelers, and ocean enthusiasts of all ages the chance to explore the latest gear, dive travel destinations, marine life encounters, and more. There will be exhibitor booths, seminars, speakers, dive travel displays, film festivals, and plenty of chances to connect with fellow underwater adventurers.

Unique Chicago Underwater Landscapes

Most people don't realize that Chicago has some truly unique underwater landscapes right in its metropolitan area. Attendees of Our World Underwater Chicago 2023 will have the chance to learn all about these amazing local dive sites.

Here are some of the cool underwater places you can explore in Chicago:

• The shipwrecks of Lake Michigan - Over 1,500 shipwrecks lie beneath the surface of Lake Michigan near Chicago. These artificial reefs are home to fish like trout and smallmouth bass.
• The corals of the Indiana Harbor - Believe it or not, small coral reefs can be found growing in the Indiana Harbor of Lake Michigan near Chicago's southeast side.
• The ruins of the Western Electric Hawthorne Works - Take a swim through history at the industrial ruins of this old manufacturing site. Parts of the concrete structures are still intact underwater.
• The Chicago Riverwalk Ruins - When the Chicago Riverwalk was expanded, old walls and building foundations were left behind and now provide a haven for fish.

Special Events at Our World Underwater Chicago 2023

In addition to exhibitor booths and seminars, Our World Underwater Chicago 2023 will feature numerous special events for divers of all skill levels:

Beginner Scuba Experience

Try scuba diving for the very first time in a controlled pool environment with expert dive instructors. This is the perfect chance to see if scuba is something you'd like to pursue.

Try Dive Chicago

Make your first open water dive right in Chicago! Participants will suit up and explore one of Chicago's many shipwrecks or artificial reefs under the guidance of skilled dive masters.

Underwater Photography Workshops

Learn tips and tricks for capturing amazing underwater photos and videos during dedicated workshops at Our World Underwater. Photograph fish, wrecks, and Chicago's unique underwater streetscapes.

Women's Diving Day

In honor of Women's History Month, a full day will be dedicated to female divers. Special seminars, trainings, and networking events will inspire more women to pursue underwater exploration.

Lake Michigan Night Dive

Experience Lake Michigan after dark on this rare night diving opportunity. With special lights and equipment, see the underwater world in a whole new way after the sun goes down.

Industry Leaders at Our World Underwater Chicago 2023

In addition to workshops and hands-on experiences, Our World Underwater Chicago 2023 will feature talks by many industry leaders and experts. Some of the speakers include:

• Sylvia Earle - Renowned marine biologist, explorer, author, and ocean advocate
• Fabien Cousteau - Aquanaut, ocean conservationist, and grandson of Jacques Cousteau
• Christina Mittermeier - Conservation photographer and marine biologist
• Roddenberry Family - Carrying on the legacy of Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry to advocate for the oceans

Dozens more speakers, scientists, explorers, underwater photographers, dive experts, and conservationists will be featured at the event.

Exhibit Hall at Our World Underwater Chicago 2023

The exhibit hall at Our World Underwater Chicago 2023 will be filled with hundreds of exhibitors showcasing all the latest and greatest in the world of diving. Attendees can explore:

• Scuba gear from top brands like Aqualung, Atomics, Henderson, Sherwood, and more
• Cutting-edge dive computers, cameras, lights, and gadgets
• Dive travel vendors highlighting bucket-list destinations worldwide
• Local Chicago dive shops, charters, gear suppliers, and training centers
• Non-profits and conservation organizations protecting aquatic ecosystems
• Mermaid performers, underwater artists, and unique exhibitors

With so many exhibitors and special events, there will be plenty to see and do without getting bored. The Our World Underwater Chicago 2023 exhibit hall will be open during the following hours:

• Friday 2/24 - 12 pm to 7 pm
• Saturday 2/25 - 10 am to 6 pm
• Sunday 2/26 - 10 am to 4 pm

Important Event Details

Here are some key details to know about Our World Underwater Chicago 2023:

• Location: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, IL
• Dates: February 24-26, 2023
• Tickets: Available online or on-site. Discounted early bird pricing before Jan 31, 2023
• Age Policy: All ages welcome! Family-friendly event.
• Covid Protocols: Masks and/or proof of vaccination may be required

Join the Underwater Community in Chicago

For any scuba divers, freedivers, underwater photographers, or ocean lovers living in the Midwest or Chicago area, the Our World Underwater Chicago 2023 expo is a can't-miss event. Join hundreds of fellow aquatic enthusiasts for a weekend of discovering the amazing underwater landscapes found right in the heart of the Windy City.

Reserve your spot today before ticket prices increase! See you underwater in Chicago!

FAQs

What is Our World Underwater Chicago 2023?

Our World Underwater Chicago 2023 is an annual consumer dive show organized by the non-profit Our World Underwater. It will be held February 24-26, 2023 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL.

Who should attend Our World Underwater Chicago 2023?

Anyone interested in scuba diving, freediving, snorkeling, underwater photography, marine biology, ocean conservation, and experiencing Chicago's unique underwater landscapes should attend.

What activities take place at Our World Underwater Chicago?

Activities include exhibitor booths, guest speakers, dive travel displays, hands-on workshops, scuba experiences for beginners, photography lessons, networking events, and more.

Can I dive in Chicago?

Yes! Chicago has fascinating dive sites including over 1,500 Lake Michigan shipwrecks, small coral reefs, underwater building ruins, and the Chicago Riverwalk remnants.

How can I get tickets to Our World Underwater Chicago 2023?

Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time or on-site during the event. Early bird discounted tickets are available until January 31, 2023.