This stretch of sand sandwiched between Lake Michigan and Lincoln Park is Chicago’s oldest public beach. It opened in 1865 and was significantly expanded under the New Deal infrastructure investments of the 1930s. Today, this sandy stretch is an excellent spot for sunbathing in the shadows of skyscrapers and enjoying Lake Michigan.
It’s also home to a boat-inspired beach house that’s an ode to the bathhouses that once lined the city’s shoreline. Inside, you’ll find the summer hot spot Castaways Beach Club. Rent kayaks, jet skis, beach chairs, umbrellas and bikes. Or cool off and go for a swim in Lake Michigan during the summer beach season. Lifeguards are on duty from 11am to 7pm from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.
