One Of Illinois' Popular Beaches In Chicago Offers Summer Fun And Waterfront Dining

Miami and San Diego are among the most popular beach cities in the United States. However, travelers looking for a saltwater- and shark-free day at the beach can head to America's "third coast," the Great Lakes. At first thought, you may picture the cold, crystal-clear waters of stunning Lake Superior. However, Lake Michigan has several beautiful cities and beach towns, including Chicago, Illinois. Chicago's 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline offer plenty of ways to kick back and spend a summer day splashing or enjoying a meal between the lakeshore and the city's stunning skyline. One of the most popular spots is Oak Street Beach, a landmark Chicago attraction. 

Created in the 1890s, Oak Street Beach was added to the southern end of Lincoln Park and sits near the Gold Coast and Navy Pier, close to some of Chicago's best-known waterfront restaurants. During the summer months, the beach is a popular spot for visitors and locals to unwind by sunbathing, going for a walk, or taking a dip (when the beach is open for swimming). Though it may not be Florida, the water temperature gets up into the 70s in late summer.

If you're planning to drive to Oak Street Beach, note that parking nearby is very limited, and there is no beach lot. It's recommended to take public transportation to reach the beach. Bus 151 runs from Union Station and stops in front of the beach, with the ride taking about 20 minutes. The Red subway (locally known as the "L") line also has a stop at Clark and Division, about half a mile to the beach. The "L" also runs from both O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) international airports; you'll need to transfer downtown.

Whether your idea of a day in the sun is staying active, curling up with a book, or working on your tan, you'll find plenty of options to enjoy the gorgeous cityscape and soft sands at Oak Street Beach. Rent a bicycle at the beach and cruise along the Lakefront Trail (be aware of pedestrians), or enjoy a game of beach volleyball. During the late spring and summer, the beach can be incredibly crowded, leaving little personal space on the sand. You may want to bring a small tent or sun shade, as there is little natural protection from the sun. You'll find public restrooms nearby in the pedestrian access tunnel, though past visitors note that they are dirty and not suitable for changing clothes.

If you aren't bringing your own shade or chair, beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent for the day. The rental company, Beach Chairs Concierge, does not accept reservations in advance and recommends visitors come before noon to ensure availability. Prices start at $15 for a chair. If you're planning to wind down your day at the beach, there is a discounted package which includes two chairs and an umbrella for $25, available from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Oak Street Beach has been one of the most popular places to swim in Chicago for over a century, reaching over 55,000 daily visitors in the Roaring '20s. Swimming is allowed throughout the summer from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m., and the city has lifeguards on duty. Longer-distance swims are also permitted; however, leave your paddleboards, skimboards, and other personal watercraft at home.

Despite there being two dozen beaches on Lake Michigan, Whispers at Oak Street Beach restaurant claims to be the city's only spot serving food right on the water. Whispers at Oak Street Beach is open for lunch and dinner and operates a concession stand on the beach serving Polish dogs, fruit juices, and smoothies to enjoy while drinking in sights of the skyline and Lake Michigan. The restaurant serves a mix of burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and seafood, as well as adult beverages. Visitors to the restaurant have mixed overall opinions; reviewers on Google Maps, OpenTable, and Yelp have stated their dining experiences were either extremely positive or disappointing for the price. The major consensus across the board, though, is that the views are never a letdown. And, rightly so: According to a 2025 study, Chicago is the most beautiful city in the world.

In the area, you'll find several other restaurants that are situated near the water, with beautiful views of the city. They're easily accessible along Chicago's iconic Lakefront Trail, which draws tens of thousands of walkers, bikers, and runners every day. For other options on the water, take a mile walk or bike ride down to Navy Pier for a taste of the city, including Chicago-style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza. Alternatively, head a mile north to the Shore Club near North Avenue Beach in Lincoln Park for eats like lobster tacos and ahi tuna bowls.

You'll also find some of the Windy City's most luxurious hotels, as well as some of its best shopping, nearby; Michigan Avenue and the north end of Chicago's Magnificent Mile is a five-minute walk away. Once you've had your fill of the big city, the state has several small towns with plenty of character, perfect for a romantic weekend. Here are five charming Illinois towns to set the scene.