Swim at North Avenue Beach

#16 in Best Things To Do in Chicago

All Things To Do

swim-at-north-avenue-beach

Key Info

1600 N. Lake Shore Drive

Price & Hours

11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily from Memorial Day-Labor Day
-

Details

Beaches, Free
Time to Spend: 2 hours to Half Day

Introduction to North Avenue Beach

Located in Lincoln Park directly on Lake Michigan, North Avenue Beach is one of the most popular swimming spots in Chicago.

Highlights of North Avenue Beach

The sandy beach offers numerous amenities and activities. It features volleyball courts, ample space for visitors to relax, and a host of nearby attractions. Additionally, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the city skyline.

Facilities and Services

Beachgoers have access to several facilities including restaurants, sports rental companies, and restrooms. A notable feature is a 22,000-square-foot beach house located adjacent to the shore, which houses these services and more.

Operating Hours

The beach is accessible at no cost from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily during beach season, which spans from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Swimming, however, is only permitted from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. when lifeguards are on duty.

Transportation and Accessibility

A variety of bus routes provide easy access to the beach. The nearest L station is Sedgwick, serviced by the Brown and Purple lines. It's important to note that parking can be quite expensive in this area, starting at $22 for two hours during peak season. Additionally, the beach and water temperatures can become quite cold during the winter months.

For more information, visit the Chicago Park District website.

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