North Avenue Beach
The most popular lakefront beach in the city, with beach volleyball and a steamboat-shaped beach house, with the skyline right behind it.
Located on the shore of Lake Michigan at the south end of Lincoln Park, North Avenue Beach is Chicagoans' top choice for sunbathing and beach volleyball in summer. The steamboat-shaped beach house has a bar and terrace on its second floor. Walk south along the lakefront path to see the full downtown skyline from the shoreline. Swimming season runs from late June to Labor Day. Lifeguards are on duty, but the water tends to be chilly. Nearby Oak Street Beach is closer to the Magnificent Mile.
Opening hours
Beach open all day; swimming season about 11am–7pm
Nearby sights
- Lincoln Park Zoo
- 360 Chicago (John Hancock Center)
- Chicago Water Tower
- Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
- Lincoln Park
- Magnificent Mile
- Chicago Riverwalk & Architecture Cruise
- Chicago Theatre