Summertime in Chicagoland means making the most out of our gorgeous lakefront! Lake Michigan offers a wealth of excitement, recreation, and relaxation opportunities for the whole family, and we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites here: whether it’s a sunny and serene day on a picturesque Chicago beach, a biking or walking tour across our famous Lakefront Trail, or an exciting afternoon cruise across the lake in style, Chicagoland’s lakefront has something to offer everyone.

BEACHES

North Avenue Beach

Thanks to its spacious sands, cool beachfront bars, and convenient location near other top attractions, North Avenue Beach is one of Chicago’s most popular beaches for locals and visitors alike.

jet ski rental • bike rental • beachfront yoga • volleyball

Oak Street Beach

Oak Street Beach is in close proximity to downtown and The Magnificent Mile, meaning that visitors will get an up-close view of many iconic city buildings while enjoying the sands.

bike rental • chair rental • volleyball tournaments

Loyola Beach

Shallow waters and a playground make Loyola Beach a family favorite for north Chicagoans. The beach is also just a walk away from the Glenwood Avenue Arts District which offers a variety of art and entertainment spots as well as well as shops and restaurants.

gymnasium • volleyball • baseball and softball • walking trail

12th Street Beach

This unique beach is situated on the eastern edge of Northerly Island, a man-made peninsula that stretches along the lakefront. It’s also a spot known for its spectacular panoramic views of the lake and city.

prairie reserve • food and drink • concerts • museums

CHICAGO LAKEFRONT TRAIL

One of the most scenic attractions in Chicago has to be the Lakefront Trail. The 18-mile-long trail along the coast of Lake Michigan offers the perfect opportunity for biking or walking tours of the lakefront and all its attractions, as well as breathtaking views of the city skyline along the way. From Ardmore avenue to 71st Street, here are just a few of the many notable spots and attractions you can find along the Lakefront Trail:

Japanese Garden

6300 S. Cornell Ave

Located in Jackson Park, the Japanese Garden is sometimes referred to as the Garden of the Phoenix. Find a foot bridge, small waterfall, ducks and more at this tranquil spot.

McCormick Bird Sanctuary

Near 2270 Fort Dearborn Drive

The McCormick Bird Sanctuary, part of Burnham Wildlife Corridor, offers a nesting ground for birds during the migratory season. Depending on the season, you can try out some bird watching when visiting.

Urban Kayaks on the Lakefront

110 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

Urban Kayaks opens up for aquatic adventures during the summer with one of its location on the trail. Two-person kayaks are available for children under 15 to ride with a parent or guardian.

The Lakefront Restaurant

2401 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

Enjoy a meal along Lake Michigan at this American restaurant at Theater on the Lake. You’ll find classic offerings like fish and chips and a cheeseburger, and families can keep littles happy with the kids’ menu.

Diversey Driving Range and Mini Golf

141 W. Diversey Parkway, Chicago

You might start seeing some golfers when walking between Montrose and Belmont Harbors, but for kids, there’s mini golf at the Diversey Driving Range. The Lincoln Park spot has an 18-hole mini golf course not too far from the trail.

LAKE CRUISES

Chicagoland hosts a plethora of boat tours and sightseeing and entertainment cruises for all types of lake lovers. Here are a few of our favorite Lake Michigan cruises that will allow you to get a whole new perspective on the Chicago lakefront this summer.

Odyssey Lake Michigan Dinner Cruise

Odyssey Lake Michigan presents guests with the opportunity to try one of Chicago’s most unique dining experiences on the water. Enjoy Odyssey Lake Michigan’s distinctive atmosphere, engaging DJ entertainment and a delicious menu as you watch the sun set on the city.

Signature Brunch Cruise

Experience the city’s most unique floating event venue for morning brunch with chef-prepared menus, full bar options, and entertainment customized to fit your needs—all with picturesque views from City Cruises’ climate-controlled interior and open-air outdoor decks.

River and Lake Architecture Tour

Enjoy Chicago’s iconic skyline with an exciting architecture cruise on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Departing from Navy Pier, this 75-minute narrated cruise is the best way to get up-close views of Chicago’s unique architecture and famous landmarks.

Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour

This fun and unique experience combines an exciting speedboat ride along the shoreline with informative and amusing descriptions of the world famous Chicago skyline. Racing across the water from Navy Pier to the Magnificent Mile and back, this thrilling and informative ride is one you won’t want to miss.

This guide is part of our Chicago Connected: Summer Edition series. Stay tuned for more ways to enjoy Chicago this season!