10 Top Beaches In Chicago
This compilation of ten beaches in Chicago mirrors the genuine splendor that the USA possesses. So, regardless of whether you are a devotee of nature and a lover of water or not, unwinding at these locations is an experience you won’t want to overlook.
- North Avenue Beach
- Loyola Beach
- Oak Street Beach
- 12th Street Beach
- Osterman Beach/Hollywood Beach
- Montrose Beach
- Tobey Prinz Beach
- Lane Beach
- Foster Beach
- Ohio Street Beach
1. North Avenue Beach
This particular beach always finds its place in any compilation of Chicago beaches, and for valid reasons! It is situated towards the north of downtown Chicago in a magnificent neighborhood renowned as Lincoln Park and boasts a popular beach house worth $7m. Pay a visit to Castaways Bar & Grill, which is a preferred destination for locals and tourists alike. It resembles an elegant ocean liner in shades of blue and white, and offers one of the most breathtaking views of the city. Numerous volleyball tournaments, such as Volleywood and AVP Chicago, are also held here, making it the most renowned downtown Chicago beach.
Location: 1600 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60613, USA
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2. Loyola Beach
This is one of the finest public beaches in Chicago and is vast in size lying to the east of the Rogers Park neighborhood. It is next to the renowned Loyola Park recognized for its breathtaking basketball and tennis courts, a community garden, and a natural sand dune habitat near the lighthouse. There is the option of long-distance swimming available here running parallel to the shoreline, making it one of the top swimming beaches in Chicago.
Location: 1230 W. Greenleaf Ave. (Greenleaf Ave. @ Lake Michigan), Chicago, IL 60626
How to reach: Locate Loyola Park in the Rogers Park area and you will find the beach right next to it
3. Oak Street Beach
If we were to inquire with the locals about their favored beach, there is a strong possibility that they mention Oak Street beach in Chicago! It is a paradise of palm trees situated near downtown with a wide range of activities to engage in. When you are hungry after reclining on a sunbed and spending time in the water, head over to Oak Street Beach Food & Drink. If you have an affinity for art, particularly street art, make sure to explore Jeff Zimmermann’s mural.
Location: 1000 N. Lake Shore Dr. (Oak Street and Lake Shore Drive)
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4. 12th Street Beach
What was formerly the site of the Miegs Field airport is now a 91-acre peninsula located near the Adler Planetarium. It is a renowned lake beach in Chicago due to its proximity to Lake Michigan, making it a popular area for migratory birds to hang out. This beach is famous for the numerous summer concerts that take place nearby at the FirstMerit Bank Pavilion, so be sure to check that out when planning a trip to this beach. This is one of the best beaches in Chicago for families because of its location close to the Museum Campus and it guarantees a great time for you and your family!
Location: 200 S. Linn White Drive (Solidarity Drive and Linn White Drive)
5. Osterman Beach/Hollywood Beach
The official designation of this beach is the Kathy Osterman Beach and this site is exceedingly renowned amongst Chicago’s LGBT community and is also a prominent Edgewater destination. Apart from the sandy seashore and crystal clear waters, this beach is recognized for the concession stand that offers meals and alcoholic beverages at great prices!
Location: 5800 N. Lake Shore Drive
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6. Montrose Beach
This is the place to be for all the pet enthusiasts since this is one of the two Park District run dog beaches in the city! If your notion of the ideal day on a beach involves observing playful canines splashing in the water, this should be your go-to place! Moreover, this is one of the finest Chicago beaches with complimentary parking and other amenities provided here are food concessions, kayak and volleyball rentals, showers, and restrooms.
Location: 4400 N. Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60613
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