Large beach with crystal clear water and clean sand offers a quiet, chill atmosphere away from city noise. Trees provide natural shade, and amenities include lifeguards, snack kiosks, and family-friendly spaces. Parking can be challenging, encouraging biking or walking to the beach.
Wide open views stretch across the sandy shoreline with the lake in front and the skyline visible in the distance.
A hidden, beautiful beach with crystal clear waters and clean sand offers a peaceful spot for sunbathing, swimming, and family fun. It features easy parking, restrooms, a concession stand, and shaded areas from trees lining one side.
"I found the beach to be an awesome place to relax."
"I found this hidden beach to be a cool, secluded spot."
"I loved the amazing, beautiful views of the lake."
Good to know
Parking costs $20 for the full day in the lot nearest the beach.
Lifeguards mark the swimming limit for safety.
The beach is family friendly and has public restrooms.
Long beach offers picturesque Lake Michigan views and a scenic Chicago skyline backdrop. It stays less crowded than nearby beaches and features a windy atmosphere that adds to its serene vibe.
Views offer a clear and great skyline of the city. They stand out as better than Oak Street Beach for scenic quality.
A long beach with peaceful and serene vibes offers better views than some busier spots. The area tends to be windy and less crowded, making it good for walking or running along the shore.
Good to know
There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk.
Parking is available nearby but can fill up quickly on weekends.
Expect windy conditions, which can affect beach activities.
Concrete surface replaces sand, creating a clean, calm beach environment with sweeping lake views and a breathtaking city skyline backdrop. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, offering a serene escape within the city without crowds or noise. Volleyball courts and a beach bar add casual activity options amid the relaxed setting.
Sweeping lake views stretch endlessly with the Chicago skyline framing the background. The spot offers stunning cityscapes that look especially amazing at sunset.
Concrete surface replaces sand, creating a clean and well-kept beach environment. It offers a peaceful urban escape with beautiful views of the city skyline and lake, plus a beach bar for drinks.
Good to know
The Chicago Sea and Air show occurs annually, typically in August.
Expect large crowds at The Concrete Beach during summer weekends.
Lifeguards are on duty at the swimming area for safety.
Beach offers breathtaking skyline views and a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere. It stays clean and spacious, making it easy to relax or take a quiet walk. Nearby harbor adds character to the area without disrupting the calm vibe.
Views include a lake and skyline that feel open and calm, not chaotic. The spot offers an unexpected close-to-downtown perspective with breathtaking ocean sights.
The beach stays clean and quiet with plenty of space and fewer crowds than downtown spots. It offers amazing skyline views and a peaceful vibe, making it great for relaxing walks or quiet beach days.
Good to know
Parking costs about $10 for 4 hours, with some free options available.
The sand is generally clean, with minimal debris present.
The water is decent in cleanliness, suitable for swimming.
Small beach offers peaceful atmosphere with beautiful lake views and friendly visitors. Lifeguard presence ensures safety while accessible seating and rocks provide spots to relax and watch the water.
Small public beach offers lovely lake views with stones to sit on and enjoy the water scenery.
Small and peaceful beach with a clean shoreline and a lifeguard on duty. Offers great views of the water and is easy to access with parking available during the day.
Good to know
There is parking available during the day at Hartigan Beach Park.
A lifeguard is present at Hartigan Beach Park.
The beach is not very kid friendly at night due to smoking and drinking.
City park offers beautiful lakefront views and a spacious beach with a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation and meditation. Activities include BBQ, kayaking, and jogging, with occasional live music and food vendors enhancing the experience.
Large open beaches provide wonderful views of Lake Michigan and the downtown Chicago skyline. The park offers a beautiful lakefront setting with clear sights of city skyscrapers.
Clean water and a well-maintained beach make this spot great for swimming and picnics. Plenty of lifeguards keep the area safe, and the beach offers beautiful views of downtown.
Good to know
Parking at Rainbow Beach Park is not free and can be limited.
The restroom facilities may be closed during your visit.
Expect peak hours from 7pm to 2am, which can be crowded.
Restaurant sits right on the lake beach with priceless views of the water. Atmosphere blends easy-listening Beach Boys music with a lively DJ vibe, though volume can be high. Decor is beautifully done, creating a clean and inviting space to enjoy drinks and the scenery.
Priceless views dominate the experience here, offering some of the best sights in the city. The scenery stands out as the main attraction, often noted as the reason to visit.
Clean beach right on the lake offers a nice spot for families and others. A restaurant and bar sit right on the beach, providing food and drinks with polite, sociable service.
Good to know
The beach is ideal for families and kept clean.
The restaurant serves drinks and food right on the beach.
Expect higher prices for food and drinks at the restaurant.
Water sports equipment rental offers spectacular city views from the water with modern, well-maintained jet skis. The atmosphere is fun and laid back, attracting those looking for a quick, enjoyable ride. Booking is straightforward, with options for online reservations or walk-ins.
Views from the water offer stunning Downtown Chicago sights and a fantastic cityscape. Riding a jetski adds a fun, sunny perspective to the experience.
Nearby bathrooms add convenience at the beach. Boundaries are set between the tower and a red roof building for safety. Arriving early can lead to waiting before activities start.
Good to know
Reservations can be made online, and walk-ins are accepted with cash payment only.
The rental costs $100 for walk-ins and $125 for reservations.
Bring sunscreen and a towel for after your ride.
Mediterranean restaurant offers stunning lake and city views with beach access and upbeat DJ music creating lively energy. Guests find comfortable cabanas and a dog-friendly menu enhancing the relaxed, social vibe. The setting suits casual dining with a focus on enjoying the outdoors and scenery.
Stunning lakefront views create a perfect spot to relax and enjoy food or drinks. The location offers unbeatable city and beach scenery that enhances the atmosphere.
Easy access to the beach pairs with beachfront dining and city views. The spot offers a relaxed vibe with reasonable prices and smooth service even on busy days.
Good to know
Reservations are not required; seating is first-come, first-served.
Bottled water is the only option available for drinking.
Expect a 3% hospitality charge added to your bill.
Hotel offers a quiet atmosphere with a rooftop terrace providing views of Lake Michigan and downtown. Spacious breakfast area fills the air with a sweet pastry scent, creating a warm vibe. Lobby features a fireplace seating area that invites relaxation.
Rooftop areas show incredible views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. Rooms overlook lush trees instead of parking lots, adding to the scenic feel.
Just 2 blocks from the beach, the hotel offers easy access for beach days. Staying multiple days works well for families wanting to spend time by the shoreline.
Good to know
Parking costs $40 for two cars, with valet service available.
The hotel is pet friendly, accommodating guests with pets.
The location is within walking distance to Loyola University and the CTA station.