North Avenue Beach: A Urban Oasis on the Shores of Lake Michigan
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of North Avenue Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Discover North Avenue Beach, a vibrant urban beach in Illinois that offers stunning views of Lake Michigan, sandy shores, and a lively atmosphere perfect for relaxation and recreation. With numerous amenities and activities available, it's an ideal destination for tourists seeking both adventure and leisure in the heart of Chicago.
A brief summary to North Avenue Beach
- Illinois, US
Local tips
- Arrive early for the best parking options and to secure a prime spot on the beach.
- Don’t forget your sunscreen, as the sun can be intense, especially during peak hours.
- Consider bringing your own beach gear, such as umbrellas and chairs, to enhance your comfort.
- Check the local events calendar to catch any special activities or festivals happening during your visit.
- Explore the nearby Lincoln Park area for additional attractions, including the zoo and botanical gardens.
Getting There
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Public Transit - Bus
If you're starting from downtown Chicago, take the #151 bus heading north from Michigan Ave & Washington St. Ride the bus for about 20 minutes. Get off at the stop at North Ave & Lake Shore Dr. From there, walk east towards the beach. North Avenue Beach will be straight ahead.
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Public Transit - Train
From downtown, board the Brown Line train at any of the Loop stations (e.g., Washington/Wells). Ride the train to the Armitage station. Once you arrive, exit the station and walk east on Armitage Ave for about 10 minutes until you reach Lake Shore Dr. Turn left (north) and continue walking until you reach North Avenue Beach.
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Walking
If you are in Lincoln Park, simply walk south on Lincoln Ave. Continue until you reach North Ave. Turn east on North Ave and walk straight until you reach the beach. This will take about 15-20 minutes depending on your pace.
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Biking
Chicago has a bike-share program called Divvy. Locate a Divvy station nearby and rent a bike. Head towards the Lakefront Trail and follow the path north until you reach North Avenue Beach. The trail is well-marked and offers a scenic ride along the lake.
Discover more about North Avenue Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ulysses S. Grant Monument
0.3 km
Discover the Ulysses S. Grant Monument in Lincoln Park, a significant historical landmark honoring an American hero amidst beautiful landscapes.
Bridge over South Pond
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at the Bridge over South Pond, a picturesque spot in Lincoln Park, Chicago, perfect for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.
Abraham Lincoln: The Man
0.6 km
Explore the Abraham Lincoln: The Man monument in Lincoln Park, Chicago, a profound tribute to American history and a serene spot for reflection.
Couch Tomb
0.6 km
Explore the Couch Tomb, a historic monument in Lincoln Park, Chicago, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's rich past.
Hidden Truths Historical Marker
0.6 km
Explore Chicago's Hidden History: Discover the stories buried beneath Lincoln Park at the Hidden Truths Historical Marker.
Old Town Triangle District
0.7 km
Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Chicago's Old Town Triangle District, where Victorian architecture meets vibrant culture and delectable dining.
Henry Gerber House
0.9 km
Explore the Henry Gerber House in Chicago, a historical landmark celebrating the roots of the American LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Old Town sign Chicago
1.0 km
Explore the historical heart of Chicago in Old Town, a charming neighborhood rich in Victorian architecture, culture, and culinary delights.
Charnley-Persky House Museum
1.1 km
Explore the Charnley-Persky House Museum, an architectural masterpiece by Louis Sullivan in the heart of Chicago's Near North Side.
Theurer-Wrigley House
1.5 km
Discover the beauty of the Theurer-Wrigley House, a historical landmark in Chicago's Park West, showcasing exquisite architectural design and rich heritage.
Windy City Ghosts
1.6 km
Explore Chicago's haunted past with Windy City Ghosts: walking tours of Lincoln Park's eerie sites and chilling tales.
Arlington Deming Historic District
1.8 km
Explore the Arlington Deming Historic District, a historic landmark in Chicago showcasing stunning architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Francis J. Dewes House
1.9 km
Discover the Francis J. Dewes House, a hidden gem in Chicago's Park West, showcasing stunning architecture and rich historical significance.
Elks National Memorial and Headquarters
2.0 km
A Chicago landmark honoring veterans with stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and intricate interior artistry in the heart of Lincoln Park.
Washington Square Park
2.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Washington Square Park, a lush urban escape in Chicago's Near North Side, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lincoln (Abraham) Park
0.4 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Lincoln Park, Chicago's urban escape, offering nature, recreation, and cultural attractions.
South Pond
0.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of South Pond in Lincoln Park, Chicago - a perfect escape for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.
Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo
0.6 km
Explore the Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo, where lush gardens and wildlife create a serene escape in the heart of Chicago.
Chicago History Museum
0.7 km
Discover the captivating history of Chicago at the Chicago History Museum, where the stories of the city come alive through engaging exhibits and rich artifacts.
Lincoln Park Zoo
0.7 km
Discover the enchanting Lincoln Park Zoo, a family-friendly oasis in Chicago offering free admission, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
International Museum of Surgical Science
0.8 km
Uncover the fascinating history of surgery and medical innovation at Chicago's International Museum of Surgical Science, a must-see for curious minds.
Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove
0.9 km
Experience the charm of penguins at the Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove in Lincoln Park Zoo, a delightful attraction for all ages.
Regenstein African Journey
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Africa at Regenstein African Journey, a captivating zoo exhibit in Lincoln Park, Chicago, showcasing diverse wildlife and conservation efforts.
Walter Family Arctic Tundra
0.9 km
Explore the Arctic wilderness at the Walter Family Arctic Tundra, a captivating exhibit at Lincoln Park Zoo showcasing polar bears and their ecosystem.
Fullerton Beach
1.0 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Fullerton Beach, a prime Chicago destination for relaxation, recreation, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Lincoln Park Conservatory
1.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Lincoln Park Conservatory, a botanical paradise in Chicago with exotic plants and stunning floral displays.
Essential places to dine
Geja's Cafe
0.9 km
Experience romantic fondue dining at Geja's Cafe in Chicago - where every bite is a delight for the senses.
The Ambassador Room
1.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Ambassador Room, where modern American cuisine meets elegant dining in the heart of Chicago.
Mario's Table
1.3 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Mario's Table in Chicago’s Near North Side - where every meal is a celebration of Italy.
3rd Coast Cafe
1.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at 3rd Coast Cafe in Chicago's Gold Coast – where brunch meets vibrant bar culture.
La Storia, Italian Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Storia in Chicago's Near North Side—where every dish tells a story.
Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
1.6 km
Experience the essence of American soul food at Blue Door Kitchen & Garden in Chicago's vibrant Gold Coast.
Somerset
1.7 km
Discover the essence of New American cuisine at Somerset, where seasonal ingredients meet modern elegance in the heart of Chicago.
LUXBAR
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of LUXBAR in Chicago's Near North Side—an American restaurant known for gourmet burgers and an inviting atmosphere.
Tavern On Rush
1.8 km
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Boka
1.8 km
Experience innovative American cuisine at Boka, one of Chicago's finest dining establishments located in the heart of Old Town.
Alinea
1.8 km
Experience unparalleled fine dining at Alinea in Chicago, where innovative New American cuisine meets artistic culinary presentations.
Summer House Santa Monica
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of California at Summer House Santa Monica in Chicago's Lincoln Park – where American cuisine meets coastal charm.
FIG & OLIVE
1.8 km
Experience Mediterranean elegance at FIG & OLIVE in Chicago – where every dish is infused with fresh flavors and olive oil delights.
Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
1.9 km
Experience modern American dining at Doc B's Restaurant in Chicago’s Gold Coast – where delicious food meets vibrant ambiance.
The Cheesecake Factory
2.1 km
Experience Chicago's culinary delight at The Cheesecake Factory – where American cuisine meets exquisite desserts in a vibrant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kay's Boutique
1.2 km
Explore Kay's Boutique in Chicago's Near North Side for a unique blend of style, elegance, and local fashion treasures.
Judy Maxwell Home
1.3 km
Explore Judy Maxwell Home in Chicago for unique gifts and local artisan treasures that capture the spirit of the city.
Stone Island Chicago
1.8 km
Discover unique fashion at Stone Island Chicago, where style meets functionality in the heart of the Near North Side.
Gucci
1.9 km
Discover luxury fashion at Gucci in Chicago, where style meets sophistication in a stunning boutique setting.
900 North Michigan Shops
2.0 km
Explore 900 North Michigan Shops, Chicago's ultimate shopping destination for luxury retail, diverse dining, and unique services in a stunning urban setting.
art effect
2.1 km
Explore Art Effect, Chicago's delightful gift shop offering unique treasures, fashion, and jewelry that reflect local artistry and creativity.
MCA Store
2.3 km
Discover the MCA Store in Chicago, featuring a unique collection of art-inspired gifts, home decor, and exclusive coffee table books.
Mary Walter Boutique
2.4 km
Explore the elegance of women's fashion at Mary Walter Boutique, where style meets personalized service in the heart of Chicago.
Saks Fifth Avenue
2.4 km
Explore the epitome of luxury shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue in Chicago, offering high-end fashion, accessories, and exceptional service in a stunning setting.
Inkling
2.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local art at Inkling, Chicago's enchanting gift shop and art gallery in the heart of Lake View.
Mary Mary Gifts
2.5 km
Explore Mary Mary Gifts for a unique shopping experience in Chicago, featuring handcrafted items and local artisan treasures perfect for souvenirs.
ikram
2.5 km
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M.M.LaFleur Chicago Store
2.6 km
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Marshalls
2.7 km
Explore the vibrant shopping experience at Marshalls in Chicago, where style meets savings in a wide range of clothing and accessories.
Chicago Souvenir Company
2.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Boutique
1.4 km
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Zebra Lounge
1.4 km
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Butch McGuire's
1.5 km
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She-nannigans
1.5 km
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The Original Mother's
1.5 km
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Hopsmith Chicago
1.5 km
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Gold Coast Social
1.5 km
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The Lodge Tavern
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Lodge Tavern, Chicago's favorite bar for craft drinks and delicious pub food in the heart of the Near North Side.
Sparrow
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chicago at Sparrow Cocktail Bar, where expert mixologists craft memorable cocktails in a chic atmosphere.
King of Cups
1.6 km
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Martini Bar
2.0 km
Experience the elegance of Chicago's Martini Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a chic ambiance in the vibrant Streeterville neighborhood.
CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO
2.1 km
Elevate your Chicago experience at CloudBar, where stunning skyline views and delicious cocktails await on the 94th floor.
Pippin’s Tavern
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American and Irish cuisine at Pippin's Tavern, a charming gastropub in the heart of Chicago's Near North Side.
Z Bar
2.4 km
Experience the elegance of Z Bar, where innovative cocktails meet stunning skyline views in the heart of Chicago's vibrant nightlife.
Bar on 4
2.4 km
Experience sophistication at Bar on 4 in Chicago, where exquisite drinks meet stunning skyline views in a chic atmosphere.
