Northwestern University Beach is a picturesque beach located along the shores of Lake Michigan in Evanston, Illinois. The beach features a modest stretch of soft, light beige to golden sand and offers a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and volleyball. It is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms, showers, and WiFi, making it a comfortable spot for visitors. However, dogs are not allowed, and activities like nudist bathing, camping, and surfing are prohibited. The beach is surrounded by the Northwestern University campus and offers scenic views, providing easy access to nearby attractions like the Evanston Art Center and various hiking trails.
The beach is popular among both locals and visitors due to its proximity to the vibrant community of Evanston. While it doesn't have dedicated parking, street parking options are available nearby. Lifeguards ensure safety during operating hours, but it is classified as not family-friendly due to some onsite restrictions.
Overall, Northwestern University Beach offers a serene and accessible beach experience, making it an attractive destination for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activities.
Read More...Calumet South Beach is a tranquil haven nestled in the vibrant city of Chicago. This beach offers a serene escape with its soft golden sands, inviting visitors to bask in the warmth and relax amidst picturesque views of Lake Michigan. Activities abound, including swimming in the refreshing waters, picnicking with breathtaking views, volleyball for the sporty, and peaceful walks along the shoreline. Lifeguard services ensure swimmer safety, and the beach features accessible restrooms and disability access, making it inclusive for all.
The beach is part of a larger park system, reflecting the Calumet region's rich history and cultural significance. It is a gathering spot for friends and family, offering a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying quality time together. However, it's important to note that dogs are not allowed, and certain activities like camping or surfing are not available at this location.
Calumet South Beach is a lesser-known gem among Chicago's beaches, offering a more intimate experience compared to its more popular counterparts.
Read More...Fullerton Beach is a picturesque urban retreat located along the vibrant shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago. It offers a moderate length of golden sand, contrasting beautifully with the vast blue waters. This beach is a hub of activity, providing visitors with experiences like volleyball, sunbathing, jogging, and picnicking. However, it lacks amenities such as lifeguards, restrooms, and food options, making it more suited for simple leisure and sports activities. The beach is not considered family-friendly due to these limitations. Fullerton Beach is surrounded by attractions such as the Chicago History Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, and the Lincoln Park Conservatory, offering a blend of history, nature, and culture nearby. The beach's proximity to these attractions and its scenic views make it a popular spot for those seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration.
Read More...Hideaway Lakes Campground, located at 8045 Van Emmon Road in Yorkville, Illinois, has undergone significant transformations in recent years. It was previously known for its lakeside campsites but faced several challenges before being revamped into a family-friendly glamping destination, now operated as Fox Bluff. The site features an 8-acre beach, a large lake, and diverse recreational activities. It offers a range of amenities, including a clubhouse, water sports facilities, and a landscaped setting perfect for nature lovers and family vacations.The revamped campsite, under the new name Fox Bluff, offers 650 RV sites with enhanced amenities like a resort-style pool, hot tub, cabanas, and sports facilities. Its proximity to the Fox River and Morgan Creek adds to its scenic appeal, making it a popular spot for both seasonal visitors and local residents looking for outdoor adventures.The transformation has resulted in a significant increase in seasonal guests, showcasing the property's vibrant new atmosphere.
Read More...63rd Street Beach is a vibrant and scenic destination located in Chicago's Jackson Park. It offers a wide stretch of soft, golden sand, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, and picnicking. The beach is known for its historic beach house, which was built in the early 20th century and features a Classical Revival style pavilion. This pavilion includes restrooms, showers, and meeting rooms, and is available for rent for special events. The beach is family-friendly and offers lifeguards on duty during swimming hours, ensuring safety for all visitors. The beach is part of Jackson Park, which was designed by renowned architects Olmsted & Vaux, the same designers of New York's Central Park. The park offers additional attractions such as the Museum of Science and Industry, a Japanese-style garden, and various sporting facilities. Visitors can enjoy activities like biking, kayaking, and canoeing, with rentals available nearby. The beach is also a great spot for nature lovers, with a natural area that attracts migrating birds in the spring and fall.
Read More...Glencoe Park Beach is a picturesque destination located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Glencoe, Illinois. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for family outings and group gatherings. The beach is open seasonally, with lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day, ensuring a safe swimming environment. Visitors can enjoy amenities like water spray features, volleyball courts, and equipment rentals during the operational hours. Outside of the summer months, the beach remains accessible free of charge, from sunrise to sunset. The beach is part of a larger park area that includes the Adda and Paul Safran Beach House, which provides essential services like restrooms, showers, and snacks. The surrounding area offers scenic views and opportunities for picnics and relaxation. Glencoe Park Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a serene escape from urban life. The beach's proximity to other attractions in the North Shore area makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the region's natural and cultural offerings.
Read More...Dam West Beach, located on the southwest shore of Lake Shelbyville, offers a serene and engaging outdoor experience. This day-use area provides a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking, making it ideal for both family outings and nature lovers. The beach is part of the larger Lake Shelbyville area, which also features public beaches, boat ramps, and picnic shelters with amenities like flushable restrooms and grills. The area is rich in wildlife, with species like white-tail deer and shorebirds, and offers breathtaking views of the lake. Visitors can enjoy a casual stroll along the General Dacey Trail, a multi-use path perfect for biking and walking. The proximity to Shelbyville allows visitors to explore local boutiques and eateries, adding a touch of small-town charm to their visit.
Read More...Located
in the neighborhood of Streeterville, Ohio Street Beach is a small north-facing
beach with light brown sand and nearby sea walls along Lake Michigan.
Ohio
Street Beach has been listed as one of the best 25 Chicago beaches by Time Out Chicago and it has also been
listed by Lonely Planet magazine as
one of the best nine beaches in Chicago.
Located in the southern portion of Chicago, Rainbow Beach – also previously known as Rocky Ledge Beach and Lake Michigan Beach – is a curve-shaped beach with light brown sand and a nearby rocky breakwater. This beach is a part of a larger recreational park named Rainbow Beach Park. Rainbow Beach is open between 11 am to 6 pm.
Lee Street Beach is a beloved destination in Evanston, Illinois, offering a stunning lakefront experience perfect for families and beachgoers. This popular beach features designated swim areas patrolled by lifeguards, picnic spots, and a playground, making it an ideal spot for recreation and relaxation. Located at 2100 Ridge Avenue, it is easily accessible by public transportation and offers nearby amenities like parking and dining options. The beach is also known for its rich history, with improvements and additions over the years enhancing its appeal. Visitors can enjoy swimming, volleyball, and frisbee games, while taking in the beautiful views of the Chicago skyline. The surrounding neighborhood is vibrant, with shops and restaurants like those found in the nearby Dempster Street area, making it a great place to explore beyond the beach.
Read More...Howard Beach, located within Howard (Ure) Beach Park in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago, offers a serene escape from the city. This 1.05-acre park features a sandy beach, a playground, and a green area with benches, making it a family-friendly destination. The beach is open daily from 6 AM to 11 PM, but swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are on duty from 11 AM to 7 PM. Visitors can enjoy picnics in designated grilling areas, but activities like paddleboarding or surfing are not permitted. The beach is named after Howard Ure, a prominent figure in Rogers Park's history, and is a valued asset for local residents seeking recreational opportunities.Howard Beach Park was acquired by the Chicago Park District in 1959 as part of a broader effort to provide beach access to apartment dwellers in the area. The park's history reflects the city's commitment to enhancing community spaces. Despite its smaller size compared to other municipal beaches, Howard Beach remains a cherished spot for relaxation and leisure.The beach's proximity to Frank Lloyd Wright's Emil Bach House adds to its scenic appeal, offering visitors a chance to appreciate architectural history alongside natural beauty.
Read More...Located in a recreational park named Burnham Park in Chicago, 31st Street Beach Chicago – officially known as Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and also known as Burroughs Beach and Margaret Taylor Burroughs Beach – is a small and popular beach along Lake Michigan with light brown sand and nearby breakwaters. 31st Street Beach is open between 6 am to 11 pm. Known as one of the best beaches in Chicago, this beach is a must-see for tourists and locals alike.
Rogers Beach Park is a charming lakefront area located in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago. It's known for its unique mix of green spaces, recreational facilities, and scenic views of Lake Michigan. The beach offers an idyllic setting for picnics and relaxation, with nearby tennis courts for those looking to stay active. The neighborhood itself is renowned for its vibrant cultural diversity and educational institutions like Loyola University. Rogers Beach Park was named after Phillip Rogers, an early Irish settler who contributed significantly to the area's development.Phillip Rogers, the first white settler in the area, arrived in 1836 and became a successful farmer, owning over 1,600 acres of land. His legacy is preserved through the naming of Rogers Park and the adjacent beach.With its beautiful beaches and nearby community events, Rogers Park is a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking a blend of urban and natural settings.
Read More...South Shore Cultural Center Beach is nestled within a sprawling 70-acre park in Chicago's South Shore neighborhood. The beach itself offers a beautiful stretch of sand with distance swimming allowed during lifeguarded hours. The surrounding park boasts a nature sanctuary, a butterfly garden, a nine-hole golf course, and open spaces for picnics and walks. The cultural center, once a country club, is a landmark building now housing various facilities like a solarium, formal dining hall, the
Paul Robeson Theater, and the Parrot Cage Restaurant. It hosts numerous cultural programs and events throughout the year. The beach and surrounding facilities are accessible by car or public transit. The South Shore Cultural Center's rich history dates back to 1905 when it was built as an exclusive country club. It later became a cultural hub after being purchased by the Chicago Park District in 1975. The area is a vibrant community center today, offering recreational activities and educational programs. Visitors to the beach can enjoy the serene environment and take part in seasonal activities such as summer camps and holiday events, making it a family-friendly destination.
Rosewood Beach, located in Highland Park, Illinois, is a vibrant and award-winning destination along the shores of Lake Michigan. Once an underutilized rocky beach, it has been transformed into an eco-friendly and recreational hub through a $14.5 million renovation completed in 2015. The beach features a nature cove for ecological programs, a guarded swimming beach, and a recreation beach. It also includes an Interpretive Center and amenity buildings such as picnic tables, restrooms, and sand rinse stations, all connected by a boardwalk. The beach is open for swimming from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with certified lifeguards supervising during public hours. Rosewood Beach hosts various events like group meetings and family gatherings, making it an ideal spot for both community activities and serene relaxation. Visitors to Rosewood Beach can enjoy not only the pristine waters but also engage in a variety of educational programs that highlight the importance of Lake Michigan's ecosystem. The surrounding wooded bluffs and beautifully designed amenities create a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. The beach offers something for everyone, whether it's swimming, nature exploration, or simply enjoying a picnic with family and friends. It also serves as a model for sustainable development and community engagement, reflecting the efforts of local residents and partnerships that have transformed it into a beloved community asset.
Read More...Milnot Beach at Lake Lou Yaeger in Litchfield, Illinois, offers a serene and fun-filled experience on the shores of a 1,300-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy a sandy beach where they can relax, play volleyball, or simply soak in the sun. The beach features an aquatic playground with inflatables, diving boards, and rock walls, making it an excellent spot for both kids and adults to have fun. With rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and corcls available, guests can explore the lake in various ways. The nearby area offers a snack bar, showers, and restrooms, making it well-equipped for a day out.
Despite being in a landlocked region, this beach provides a delightful retreat with its picturesque setting and cool, fresh water. It is a popular destination for those seeking to unwind amidst nature, offering a range of leisurely pursuits including swimming, picnicking, and fishing. The beach is open during the warmer months, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day, making it a seasonal gem for locals and tourists alike.
Read More...Located near the
neighborhood of Streeterville in Chicago, Oak Street Beach is a popular small
beach with light brown sand, a gradual sloping incline, and a backdrop of
high-rise buildings along Lake Michigan.
Oak Street Beach has been listed as one
of the “The 25 Best Chicago Beaches” by Time
Out Chicago, has been listed as one of the “25 Best Beaches in the USA” by Travel + Leisure magazine, and was named
the 22nd best beach in the United States by Randall Kaplan, the world’s
foremost beach expert who is known as Mr. Beach.
North Avenue Beach, located in Chicago's Lincoln Park, is a vibrant and picturesque destination known for its stunning views of the city skyline. The beach is situated at 1600 N. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive (formerly North Avenue and Lake Michigan), making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. Its unique ocean liner-inspired beach house offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants and rental services for activities like volleyball and kayaking. The beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, attracting large crowds during the annual Air and Water Show. With its revitalized beachfront and walking trails, North Avenue Beach provides a mix of leisure activities and stunning vistas. The beach area is highly regarded for its recreational opportunities, making it a hub for joggers, bicyclists, and those enjoying water sports. The upper decks of the beach house provide excellent viewpoints for watching the bustling lakefront activities or simply taking in the beautiful horizon. North Avenue Beach is truly a central point for outdoor activities and relaxation, offering something for everyone during all seasons. During the peak summer months, the beach is equipped with a wide range of amenities, including restrooms and showers, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors.
Read More...Lane Beach, located at 5915 N. Sheridan Rd. in Chicago, offers a tranquil retreat along the shores of Lake Michigan. It is particularly known for its soft-surface playground and accessible outdoor space, making it a great spot for families and those seeking nostalgic beach vibes. The park has a rich history, having been named after George A. Lane, a prominent community figure. Although it lacks extensive amenities like other large municipal beaches, Lane Beach provides a charming, small-scale alternative. Visitors can enjoy swimming during lifeguarded hours and access the Lake Michigan Water Trail for non-motorized sports nearby.Located in the Edgewater neighborhood, Lane Beach provides a serene escape amidst the bustling city. It is one of the smaller street-end beaches acquired by the Chicago Park District and is favored for its local charm and accessibility. The beach season typically runs from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day.Surrounded by the urban landscape but nestled by the lake, Lane Beach offers scenic views and is an ideal spot for soaking up the sun or partaking in light outdoor activities. While it does not allow dogs, grilling is permitted in designated areas, making it suitable for picnics.
Read More...Foster Avenue Beach is a family-friendly haven located at 5200 N. Lake Shore Drive in Chicago's historic Lincoln Park neighborhood. This man-made beach along Lake Michigan offers a serene retreat with soft sands and picturesque waterfront views. While Foster Avenue Beach can be less crowded than some other beaches in the area, it still provides ample space for relaxation and activities like swimming and picnicking. The beach is part of a larger park expansion and features a beach house with amenities such as bike rentals and restrooms. Visitors can also enjoy nearby attractions, including trapeze performances from the Get a Grip Trapeze School. Foster Avenue Beach is ideal for those seeking a less crowded beach experience in Chicago. It offers a tranquil setting for relaxation, recreational activities, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. The beach's accessibility features, like an ADA-accessible beach walk and nearby parking, make it an enjoyable destination for all visitors. The area around Foster Avenue Beach is also rich in historical and cultural significance, being part of the larger Lincoln Park, which is one of Chicago's oldest public parks. This makes Foster Avenue Beach not just a recreational spot but also a part of the city's vibrant cultural landscape.
Read More...Located in Chicago’s neighborhood of Uptown, Montrose Beach – also known as Montrose Avenue Beach – is a popular beach with light brown sand and a nearby curved cement pier. Montrose Beach is a part of a larger recreational park named Lincoln Park.
Montrose Beach has been listed as one of the “The 9 best beaches in Chicago for a taste of the lake life” by Lonely Planet magazine and it was also listed as one of the “The 25 best Chicago beaches” by Time Out Chicago magazine. It is also a favorite of Randall Kaplan, the world’s foremost beach expert who is known as Mr. Beach. Montrose Beach is open from 6 am to 11 pm.
Illinois Beach State Park Resort Beach, located in Zion, Illinois, offers a serene getaway from city life. It is part of the 4,160-acre Illinois Beach State Park, known for its diverse ecosystems including sandy beaches, dunes, swales, and marshes along Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as swimming, boating, picnicking, hiking, and fishing. The park's unique biodiversity includes over 650 species of plants and a variety of wildlife. The Illinois Beach Hotel, situated by the lake, provides comfortable accommodations and dining options, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. The breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding natural beauty make this destination truly special. The park is easily accessible from both Chicago and Milwaukee, making it a popular weekend escape for those in the region. With its stunning sunrises and beautiful wildlife, Illinois Beach State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Overall, the park offers a unique experience that combines the tranquility of nature with the convenience of nearby amenities like hotels and restaurants.
Read More...Located near the neighborhood of Oakland in the South Side of Chicago, Oakwood Beach – also called 41st Street Beach – is a curve-shaped beach with light brown sand, a cement pier, and a nearby famous mermaid statue.
Oakwood Beach is a part of a larger recreational park named Burnham Park, and is open between 6 am and 11 pm.
Leone Beach, located in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood, is the largest beach in the city, stretching along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan. Named in 1966 after Sam Leone, a park employee and Navy World War I veteran, this beach park has a rich history dating back to 1919 when the site was acquired by the City of Chicago's Bureau of Parks and Recreation. It offers expansive soft sandy areas perfect for sunbathing, relaxation, and soaking up the lakeside ambiance.Leone Beach has a laid-back vibe, ideal for families, friends, and solo visitors looking to enjoy a serene urban getaway. The beach also features vibrant murals along the seawall and tranquil spots for meditation and yoga. With a combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, it stands out as a beloved community hub on Chicago’s lakefront.The park encourages active engagement through various programs like the Junior Lifeguard training, blending safety education with fun, while the surrounding facilities ensure a day at the beach is both comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
Read More...Located near Chicago’s neighborhood of Edgewater, Kathy Osterman Beach – also known as Osterman Beach, Ardmore Beach, and Hollywood Beach – is a slightly wide beach with light brown sand and a nearby breakwater. Kathy Osterman Beach is part of a larger recreational park named Lincoln Park (which is not to be confused by a nearby city of the same same). The southern part of Kathy Osterman Beach is popular with the members of the LGBTQ community. Kathy Osterman Beach is open between 6 am to 11 pm.
57th Street Beach is a serene escape located on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, offering a tranquil atmosphere amidst the bustling city life. It is nestled within Jackson Park, a historic area designed by Olmsted & Vaux, the renowned architects of Central Park in New York. The beach features fine, golden sand and offers a variety of activities such as swimming, picnicking, and volleyball, making it a versatile destination for all ages. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe swimming environment. The beach is also surrounded by several attractions, including Hyde Park, known for its cultural contributions and architectural landmarks.One of the earliest park improvements included a beach made from granite bricks, but it wasn't until after the Columbian Exposition World's Fair that a sand beach was created. The lakefront became popular for public bathing after the completion of the Drainage Canal in 1899. Today, the beach offers modern conveniences like an ADA accessible beach walk, restrooms, and WiFi. Tasty Grill provides a Mexican menu and hot dogs for beachgoers.Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline from the beach house, which was constructed in 1993. The surrounding Jackson Park spans over 550 acres and includes amenities like a gymnasium, multi-purpose rooms, a fitness center, and various gardens. The park also hosts family events throughout the year, including nights out in the park and holiday-themed celebrations.
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