Chicago Beaches: Windy City Sand Between Your Toes (Unless the Wind Blows Them All Away)
Ah, Chicago beaches. A place where dreams are built...sandcastles that is, because those beachfront property listings are out of this world. But seriously, Chicago's lakefront is a glorious stretch of urban oasis, perfect for catching some rays, people-watching, or contemplating the mysteries of the vast, ever-churning Lake Michigan.
Beach Basics: The When and Where of Your Windy City Dip
Now, before you pack your swimsuit and inflatable flamingo (essential Chicago beach accessory), there are a few things to know. First, the official beach season kicks off on the Friday before Memorial Day, which lands on May 24th this year. So, hold your horses (or inflatable pool toys) until then.
The beaches themselves are a smorgasbord of options, stretching for 26 miles along the city's coastline. Here's a quick rundown of some popular picks:
- North Avenue Beach: This granddaddy of Chicago beaches is a sunbather's paradise. Lots of space to spread out your beach towel and soak up the rays (or the inevitable Lake Michigan breeze). Bonus points for being close to Lincoln Park Zoo, so you can go from sea creatures to land creatures in a heartbeat.
- Oak Street Beach: Fancy seeing Chicago's rich and famous (or at least people who look that way)? Oak Street Beach is your spot. It's close to the Magnificent Mile, so you might even catch a waft of expensive perfume along with the lake breeze.
- Rainbow Beach: If chill vibes are your thing, Rainbow Beach is calling. This South Side beach is known for its LGBTQ+ community and its laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for building sandcastles of self-expression.
Pro Tip: Lifeguards are only on duty from 11 am to 7 pm during beach season, so be sure to swim within those hours and avoid becoming a headline in the Chicago Tribune's "Oops! Fell in Lake Michigan" section (hopefully, that's not a real section).
Beach Bumming on a Budget: Free Fun in the Chicago Sun
The beauty of Chicago's beaches is that they're completely free to enter. That's right, folks, soak up the sun and the skyline without putting a dent in your wallet. Here are some ideas to maximize your beach day without breaking the bank:
- Pack a picnic lunch: Skip the overpriced concession stands and bring your own feast. Sandwiches, chips, and a thermos of something cold (or hot, if that's your thing, Chicago weather can be unpredictable) are a beach bum's best friend.
- Embrace the free entertainment: People-watching is an Olympic sport at Chicago beaches. You'll see everything from synchronized swimming (not really) to elaborate sandcastle competitions to folks rocking some truly questionable swimwear choices.
**Beach Bonus: The Great Chicago Hot Dog Challenge (Unofficial) **
No trip to Chicago is complete without experiencing a Chicago-style hot dog. Here's the challenge: Grab a hot dog from a vendor near the beach and see if you can resist adding all the glorious toppings (relish, sport peppers, neon green relish, the works) before succumbing to pure, delicious temptation.
So, there you have it, folks. Chicago beaches: a place to relax, recharge, and maybe even witness a hot dog-induced existential crisis. Just remember the sunscreen, the flamingo (optional, but highly encouraged), and your sense of adventure. And who knows, you might just have a whale of a time (or a perch of a time, depending on what Lake Michigan has in store).
