The 16 Best Beaches in Downtown Chicago

North Avenue Beach is a captivating urban oasis that offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and city excitement. Visitors are greeted with a mesmerizing view where the azure sea meets the city skyline, creating a picturesque setting that is both tranquil and vibrant. This beach is not just a regular sandy spot; it's a place where you can witness stunning sunsets that paint the horizon with warm hues, turning the surroundings into a dynamic masterpiece.

Customer reviews rave about the beauty and amenities of North Avenue Beach:

• The breathtaking views provide a unique experience that combines the best of city and beach life.
• Visitors love the variety of activities available, from relaxing on the sand to renting jet skis and kayaks or enjoying beach volleyball.
• Many appreciate the cleanliness of the beach and the respectfulness of fellow visitors in keeping the area tidy.
• Overall, guests find North Avenue Beach to be a fantastic destination for a day of fun, relaxation, and memorable experiences.

31st Street Beach is a popular destination in Chicago for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful view of the Chicago skyline. This beach offers clean water, a relaxing atmosphere, and a separate cycling path along the lake trail. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and even body surfing when the big boats pass by and create waves.

• The beach is serene and offers an amazing view of the Chicago skyline.
• Visitors can enjoy a separate cycling path and pretty nature views along the lake trail.
• The beach has clean water, making it great fun for swimming and water activities.
• Customers appreciate the beach shower for cleaning up after a day in the water and sand.

Oak Street Beach is a picturesque beach located in Chicago, Illinois. With a rating of 4.8 stars, it is highly recommended by visitors for its unique blend of natural serenity and urban vibrancy. The beach offers a tranquil escape with golden sands and rhythmic waves, all while providing a captivating view of the city's skyline.

• This was a total and great surprise for me. The freshwater beach was very enjoyable, especially in the summer.
• The beach view, juxtaposed against the cityscape, creates a harmonious blend of natural serenity and urban vibrancy.
• Favorite place in Chicago. Peaceful, walkable, and beautiful landscape.
• Enjoyable beach close to iconic city attractions. Ideal for family sunbathing and unforgettable memories.

Ohio Street Beach is a popular public beach located in Chicago, Illinois. This beach offers a variety of amenities such as public toilets, making it a convenient spot for families with kids. Visitors have left glowing reviews, highlighting key points such as:

• A great place to unwind and enjoy the clear waters
• A relaxing oasis with stunning views of the Chicago skyline
• Clean beach with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely day out
• Conveniently located near Navy Pier but not overcrowded

With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 1116 reviews, Ohio Street Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan.

The Concrete Beach is a fantastic destination along the Chicago lakefront. This public beach offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy activities such as jogging, biking, walking, playing volleyball, or simply relaxing by the water.

Customer reviews praise The Concrete Beach for various reasons:

• Great place for exercise or contemplation, with perfect views of the city skyline, especially at sunset.
• Offers a serene environment for jogging or walking, with volleyball courts available for sports enthusiasts.
• Perfect spot to enjoy both day and night views of the city skyline.
• Ideal location for relaxation, tanning, and enjoying the water without the hassle of sand.

With a rating of 4.7 based on 330 reviews, it's clear that The Concrete Beach is a must-visit destination in Chicago. Whether you're looking to exercise, unwind, or simply soak in the beauty of the city, this beach has something for everyone.

12th Street Beach is a popular public beach located in Chicago, IL. It offers a range of amenities for visitors, including public toilets and being accessible to wheelchairs. Families with children will find it especially suitable, as it is kid-friendly.

The beach has received an impressive rating of 4.6 based on 408 reviews. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

• Great spot for iconic pictures, especially on foggy days, offering a unique view of the city skyline.
• Conveniently located near museums and offers a perfect setting for a picnic or a day of fun activities for families.
• Clear water, good lifeguarding, and a snack shack available for refreshments.
• Though parking can be challenging due to the tourist spot, it is overall a very good place to visit for picnics and beach activities.

Fullerton Beach is a popular spot located in Chicago, IL where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful backdrop of Lake Michigan. This beach offers access to the bathroom, local bars, and is conveniently situated near the Zoo and various fun activities.

With a rating of 4.8, visitors have shared their positive experiences, highlighting some key points:

• Beautiful spot to relax and soak in the sun alongside the picturesque backdrop of Lake Michigan ☀️
• What a breathtaking spot - a place that you MUST visit with amazing views and experiences
• Best beach with access to amenities, local bars, and near other fun activities
• Favorite place to take visitors and enjoy a picnic

Whether you are looking to unwind by the shore, take a leisurely walk along the trail, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the Chicago skyline, Fullerton Beach is a top choice for locals and tourists alike.

North Avenue Beach Pier offers a tranquil escape in the bustling city of Chicago. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier, taking in the stunning views of the city skyline and the lakefront. With clean beaches, multiple trash cans, and food options available, guests can relax and soak in the scenic beauty. The pier also provides a unique vantage point to admire Chicago's architecture and natural surroundings.

• Clean beach with restrooms and a restaurant
• Beautiful city skyline views
• Tranquil and peaceful environment
• Accessible food options and amenities

Ohio Street Beach is a charming beach located in Illinois, United States. With a solid rating of 4.6, it's clear that customers love what this beach has to offer. Some of the key points highlighted in the reviews include:

• This beach is great, never overly crowded, and offers lockers for convenience.
• Beautiful and serene, perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
• Nice little beach on Lake Michigan with great views of the skyscrapers.
• Hidden gem away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

With clear water, scenic views, and a peaceful ambiance, Ohio Street Beach is a must-visit spot for beach lovers and those looking for a tranquil escape by the lake.

Oak Street Beach in Chicago offers a vibrant and exciting experience for visitors looking to enjoy a day at a bustling public beach. With a rating of 4.7, based on 99 reviews, it's clear that customers have positive things to say about this beachfront destination.

• An enjoyable walk and a vibrant day with fun people
• Great way to experience the lakefront of Chicago
• Crowded but lovely atmosphere, especially for volleyball and Futvolley
• Fun for the entire family, a nice small slice of beachy heaven

Customers have highlighted the cleanliness, family-friendly atmosphere, and beautiful views as standout features of Oak Street Beach. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, enjoy the water, or partake in beachside activities like volleyball and Futvolley, Oak Street Beach is a top choice for locals and tourists alike.

Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and Park is a stunning outdoor haven located in Chicago, IL. This picturesque park boasts a plethora of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including a public toilet, making it a family-friendly destination.

Customer reviews rave about the park's beauty and attractions. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

• This park offers an amazing view of the Chicago skyline, making it an ideal spot for hanging out, exercising, and even hosting a BBQ party.
• Visitors praise the cleanliness of the park and appreciate its family-friendly atmosphere.
• Some guests enjoyed live music and the diverse crowd at the beach.

With a high rating of 4.7, it's no wonder that guests are drawn to the charm and tranquility of Margaret T. Burroughs Beach and Park. Whether you're looking to relax by the lake or enjoy a day out with family, this park is the perfect destination.

Oakwood Beach provides a serene escape from the city noise, offering a beautiful view with plenty of relaxation opportunities. The beach itself is clean and perfect for sunbathing, with some reviews mentioning how quiet and uncrowded it tends to be. While the water may have some issues like rocks and dead bugs, many visitors appreciate the chilling experience without going too far into the lake.

• Visitors find Oakwood Beach to be a clean and quiet location, perfect for a relaxing day under the sun.
• Some guests appreciate the beautiful view of the skyline and the opportunities for sunbathing on the clean sand.
• While there might be rocks and dead bugs in the water, the overall experience at Oakwood Beach is praised for its tranquil atmosphere.
• Many reviewers highlight the peacefulness of the beach and its low-key ambiance, making it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a break from the bustling city life.

Lakefront Trail - Ohio Street Beach provides a stunning location for outdoor activities in Chicago. With separate lanes for walkers/runners and cyclists/skateboarders/rollerbladers, safety is a top priority here. The trail spans nearly 20 miles along Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking views of the downtown skyline. Customers rave about the flat running area, the calm water for swimming, and the overall safety of the trail. Whether you're walking, running, cycling, or simply enjoying the views, this is a must-visit spot in Chicago.

• Great for combining long distance exercise with dynamic photo opportunities
• Separate lanes ensure safety for all users
• Breathtaking views of the downtown skyline

12th Street Beach is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Chicago, offering a serene escape from the bustling city life. Located within walking distance of popular attractions like Soldier Field, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium, this beach provides the perfect setting for a relaxing day out. The beach boasts clean sand, clear waters, and ample space for visitors to unwind and enjoy the picturesque views of Lake Michigan.

• Great central location near museum campus
• Clean beach with clear water
• Convenient amenities and facilities available
• Plenty of space to relax and enjoy the surroundings

Chicago's Beaches offer a unique experience that combines the beauty of Lake Michigan with urban surroundings. The high-rise buildings around the beach create a true urban beach vibe, making it a standout destination. The beach is also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its beauty.

Customers have left some glowing reviews about their experiences at Chicago's Beaches:

• Small beach, good for kids, and near a quiet park.
• Chicago beaches are the best in the summertime, but it's advisable to leave when the sun sets due to safety concerns.
• Beautiful nature at its peak, a calming and refreshing experience.
• A decent beach to cool down on a hot day.

So whether you want to relax on the sand, take a refreshing dip in the lake, or enjoy the urban beach atmosphere, Chicago's Beaches is the place to be. Experience the best of both worlds at this iconic Chicago destination.

12th Street Beach Natural Area is a serene nature preserve located in the heart of Chicago, IL. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan while being surrounded by lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

• Beautiful place to enjoy Lake Michigan right in the heart of Chicago.
• Great spot to relax and get away from the city a bit. A little natural oasis in the heart of downtown.
• Perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.

With a rating of 4.1, this natural area offers a tranquil retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. It is truly a hidden gem in the midst of the urban landscape.