Grab the kids, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure – July is here and summer is in full swing! Let’s go hit the beach!
Who says just because we’re not on the coast that we can’t enjoy some awesome summer days at the beach? Chicago’s very own Lake Michigan boasts some truly wonderful sandy lakefront spots to soak up the sun and hang out with the family during the summer.
Make the most of that warm sunshine while we’ve got it and bring a beach ball, picnic, and a blanket and get your suntan on with the family at some of Chicago’s/Lake Michigan’s great beaches.
Here’s a few suggestions:
Oak Street Beach on the Gold Coast
This extremely popular beach sees a lot of action – volleyball tournaments, bike rentals, concessions and a restaurant, plus a great view of the Chicago skyline.
Rainbow Beach and Park on the South Shore
Rainbow Beach is part of the 60-acre Rainbow Park, and makes for a nice point to both enjoy the beach as well as the Rainbow Beach Victory Garden, one of the city’s oldest public gardens. There is a playground, concessions, wifi, handball courts, even a gym and fitness center.
Helen Doria/aka Columbia Beach on the North Side
This beach in Rogers Park is great because it gives nice views of the Chicago skyline with fewer crowds than the beaches located nearer to the Loop. It has fewer amenities than some places, but does still have a lifeguard station and restrooms.
North Avenue Beach at Lincoln Park
Of course this is one of the most popular and busiest beaches, with volleyball courts, bike, kayak, and jet ski rentals, food, and more. You have to get there early but you’ll have a great day!
Margaret T. Burroughs Beach in Bronzeville/Oakland
Margaret T. Burroughs Beach (previously known as 31st Street Beach) is located on the South Side and has great views of the skyline, and a nearby picnic area and playground. If you want to go fishing, this is a good spot because there is also a nearby public fishing dock, and there is also a harbor for small boats and a harbor store.
Oakwood Beach in Bronzeville/Oakland
Who doesn’t love to celebrate music and the outdoors in the company of other like-minded people? If you’re a concert- or festival-going type of family, this South Side beach hosts many of them, such as Mamby on the Beach, so you may find yourself there for a fun event this summer!
Leone Beach at Rogers Park
If you’re looking to launch your family’s kayak for a day out on the water together, this is a good spot to do it. There is also a playground for the kids to play at when you need a break from the water, and tennis courts if you fancy a match.
Calumet Beach near the Indiana state line
Not the most handy to the Chicago area, but if you want an adventure to go check out a farther-flung beach and/or want to explore a huge 200-acre park that comes complete with sports fields for football, softball, and even an artificial turf soccer field, Calumet Beach could be a fun way to get off your regular beaten track.
