North Avenue Beach
About
This expansive Lake Michigan beach offers families a classic Chicago summer experience with sandy shores, designated swimming areas, and incredible city skyline views. Kids love building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, and playing beach volleyball, while the iconic steamship-shaped beach house adds a fun architectural element. The beach becomes extra exciting in August during the Air and Water Show when military jets and stunt planes perform overhead.
Highlights
- ✓Swimming and splashing in Lake Michigan's waves
- ✓Building sandcastles with stunning Chicago skyline as backdrop
- ✓Watching the Air and Water Show in August with military jets and aerobatic performances
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 10 AM on summer weekends to claim a good spot,it gets packed by noon
- 2.The north end of the beach tends to be less crowded than the area near the beach house
- 3.Bring water shoes,the rocky lake bottom near shore can be uncomfortable for bare feet
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings in summer (9 AM-noon) for fewer crowds; visit in mid-August for the spectacular Air and Water Show
What to Know
Concession stand at the beach house with snacks, drinks, and light meals; food trucks often park nearby on weekends Very limited street parking; use North Avenue parking garage (paid) or bike/take public transit (Red, Brown, Purple Line to Fullerton) Public restrooms and changing facilities in the beach house; outdoor showers available for rinsing off sand Beach path is stroller-friendly, but you'll need to carry strollers through sand to reach the water Beach wheelchairs available for checkout; paved paths to beach, though sand access can be challenging
Seasonal Notes
Open late May through Labor Day with lifeguards on duty 11 AM-7 PM in summer. Water can be cold even in July. Air and Water Show happens mid-August (usually third weekend). Beach is accessible year-round but no amenities or lifeguards off-season.
Nearby Eats
The beach concession stand offers basics, and Lincoln Park neighborhood (10-minute walk west) has dozens of family-friendly restaurants including Homeslice, Pequod's Pizza, and RJ Grunts.
More Activities Near Chicago
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is Chicago's ultimate family-friendly destination, combining world-class art installations with interactive features that kids absolutely love. From taking silly photos in the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean) to splashing in the Crown Fountain's giant video faces that spray water, this 24.5-acre park offers endless entertainment without costing a penny.
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world's greatest art museums, featuring iconic works like Grant Wood's 'American Gothic' and the massive collection of Impressionist paintings that fascinate kids when they learn the stories behind them. The Ryan Learning Center offers hands-on art activities specifically designed for children, making this world-class museum accessible and fun for young visitors.
The Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is a magical outdoor destination where kids can explore 1,700 acres of trees, gardens, and nature trails. The 4-acre Children's Garden features hands-on activities, water play, and climbing areas, while the famous Troll Hunt sends families on an adventure to find massive wooden troll sculptures hidden throughout the grounds. It's the perfect blend of education and outdoor adventure that keeps kids engaged for hours.
Garfield Park Conservatory
This stunning glass palace houses lush tropical plants, towering palms, and vibrant gardens that transport kids to different climates without leaving Chicago. Children love the enormous ferns in the prehistoric-feeling Fern Room and can hunt for fish in the lagoons. Best of all, it's completely free, making it an incredible value for families looking to escape the city or beat bad weather.