Underwater Safaris

Since 1987, Underwater Safaris has been Chicago's PADI 5-Star IDC dive center, with a team of 17 PADI instructors who keep small class sizes of just 4 students. Their in-store heated training pool means warm water, personal attention, and a relaxed, confidence-building start for every diver.

Courses for every explorer

Whether you're stepping in for the first time or chasing instructor-level goals, there's a path here. The center runs PADI Discover Scuba Diving and Beginning SCUBA classes on Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday schedules, alongside freediving, mermaid classes, and conservation-focused activities. Equipment sales, air fills, and rental gear — including kids' and freediving kits — round out the offering.

Local dives explore sites such as Haigh Quarry, Pearl Lake Beach Resort, and the Cayman Salvage Master, where divers may encounter sharks, turtles, and freshwater fish. With an onsite classroom, retail shop, air conditioning, convenient street parking, and a short walk from public transit, it suits brand-new beginners and aspiring pros alike.