Heidi Auvenshine, Marketing and Partnerships Director of The Playpen Chicago, recently sat down with WGN TV to introduce the Playpen Chicago app, a mobile resource designed for Chicagoans and tourists alike. The app is available on both iPhone and Android platforms, as well as on the web, allowing boat lovers and lake enthusiasts to connect, join private boat outings, stay updated on boating and entertainment events, and discover boating-related businesses.
What is Playpen Chicago?
Playpen Chicago is more than just an app; it’s Chicago’s premier social network dedicated to the vibrant boating and lake entertainment community around Lake Michigan. Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the app serves as a digital hub for those looking to engage with fellow lake lovers. Users can join interactive streams and chats, participate in private and public groups centered on different aspects of lake entertainment, and receive invitations to exclusive boat outings. The app also features a marketplace where users can connect with boat-related businesses, making it a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in the Playpen area.
How Did Playpen Chicago Come About?
The idea for Playpen Chicago was born from the realization that “The Playpen,” a popular boating spot on Lake Michigan was a social hub for a select group of Chicagoans. While everyone raved about The Playpen, meeting boat owners and becoming part of the lake community wasn’t within the logistical reach of most young Chicagoans eager to make The Playpen central to their Chicago summers. Recognizing that the lake community offered much more than just boating, we decided to create a platform that celebrated and connected this vibrant community. The Playpen Chicago website launched in March 2022, immediately attracting interest and providing a digital space for all things related to Chicago’s lake life. It quickly grew to several thousand members. The Playpen Chicago mobile app was launched in June 2024,
How Can Chicagoans and Tourists Use the Website/App?
Playpen Chicago is designed to help users build and strengthen community ties. Members can make friends with captains and boat owners, find charter services to rent boats, and fully experience Lake Michigan during the summer months. The app features a group section where users can create or join groups, such as Playpen Sailors, Playpen Pride, Latin Vibes, and many more, allowing them to connect with others who share their interests. The events page helps users stay informed about what’s happening on the water and around the city, while the marketplace offers a space to explore boating-related businesses. Additionally, users can take a live look at The Playpen through the app’s webcam feature, offering real-time views of the area.
How Can Businesses and Entrepreneurs Use the Website/App?
For businesses and entrepreneurs, Playpen Chicago offers a valuable platform to connect with the lake community. The marketplace allows businesses to list services such as charters, captaining, boat cleaning, catering, bartending, and more, as well as products like boats, boat gear, and jet skis. Businesses can also engage with other members through groups, the newsfeed, and targeted ads. Event organizers can promote their events on the platform, reaching a highly relevant audience of lake enthusiasts.
What Are People Saying About Playpen Chicago So Far?
The response to Playpen Chicago has been overwhelmingly positive. Users are finding the app incredibly useful for making new friends, planning outings, and creating lasting summer memories. Summertime in Chicago is a special occasion, and Playpen Chicago is helping people make the most of it. As the app continues to grow, it aims to enhance the summer experience for all who love the lake and the vibrant community that surrounds it.