North Avenue Beach: Chicago's Urban Paradise
Experience the ultimate urban beach getaway at North Avenue Beach, where sun, sand, and stunning skyline views await in Chicago.
North Avenue Beach is a vibrant stretch of sandy shore in Chicago, offering a blend of relaxation, recreational activities, and stunning views of the skyline. Perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and water sports, this beach is a must-visit for tourists looking to unwind and soak up the local culture.
A brief summary to North Avenue Beach
- Illinois, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a prime spot on the beach, especially during weekends.
- Bring your own beach gear, as rentals can get busy during peak hours.
- Check the weather and water conditions before planning your beach day for a safe experience.
- Explore the nearby Lincoln Park area for additional attractions, parks, and dining options.
- Don't miss the chance to catch a sunset at the beach; it's one of the most beautiful experiences in the city.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From Oak Lawn, head to the nearest Metra train station, Oak Lawn Station. Take the Metra Rock Island Line towards Chicago. Ride the train for about 30 minutes and get off at the LaSalle Street Station in downtown Chicago. Once you exit the station, walk towards the southwest to catch the CTA 'L' train at the Clark/Lake station. Take the Brown Line or Purple Line towards Kimball or the Red Line towards Howard. If you take the Brown Line, transfer at the Washington/Wells station to the Green Line towards Ashland. Get off at the Kedzie stop and transfer to the #52 Kedzie bus heading north. After approximately 20 minutes, get off at the North Avenue Beach stop.
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Bike Rental
In Oak Lawn, find a bike rental shop such as 'Bike Oak Lawn' to rent a bicycle. Once you have your bike, head north towards 95th Street, then take a left to head west until you reach Cicero Avenue. From there, follow Cicero Avenue north until you hit the 47th Street intersection. Turn left onto 47th Street and continue straight until you reach Lake Shore Drive. Turn right on Lake Shore Drive and follow the bike path along the lake until you reach North Avenue Beach. This route is approximately 12 miles long.
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Walking
If you're up for a longer walk, you can start at the Oak Lawn Village Hall. Head north on 95th Street until you reach Cicero Avenue. Turn right and walk along Cicero Avenue until you reach 47th Street. Turn left on 47th Street and continue until you reach Lake Shore Drive. Once you reach Lake Shore Drive, turn right and walk along the sidewalk until you see the signs for North Avenue Beach. This walking route is around 12 miles and will take approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Discover more about North Avenue Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ulysses S. Grant Monument
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Bridge over South Pond
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Abraham Lincoln: The Man
0.6 km
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Couch Tomb
0.6 km
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Hidden Truths Historical Marker
0.6 km
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Old Town Triangle District
0.7 km
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Henry Gerber House
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Old Town sign Chicago
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Charnley-Persky House Museum
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Theurer-Wrigley House
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Windy City Ghosts
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Arlington Deming Historic District
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Francis J. Dewes House
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Elks National Memorial and Headquarters
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Washington Square Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lincoln (Abraham) Park
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South Pond
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Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo
0.6 km
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Chicago History Museum
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Lincoln Park Zoo
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International Museum of Surgical Science
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Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove
0.9 km
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Regenstein African Journey
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Walter Family Arctic Tundra
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Fullerton Beach
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Lincoln Park Conservatory
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Essential places to dine
Geja's Cafe
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The Ambassador Room
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Mario's Table
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3rd Coast Cafe
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La Storia, Italian Restaurant
1.6 km
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Blue Door Kitchen & Garden
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Somerset
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LUXBAR
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Tavern On Rush
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Boka
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Alinea
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Summer House Santa Monica
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FIG & OLIVE
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Doc B's Restaurant (Gold Coast)
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The Cheesecake Factory
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kay's Boutique
1.2 km
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Judy Maxwell Home
1.3 km
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Stone Island Chicago
1.8 km
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Gucci
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900 North Michigan Shops
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art effect
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MCA Store
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Mary Walter Boutique
2.4 km
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Saks Fifth Avenue
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Inkling
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Mary Mary Gifts
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ikram
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M.M.LaFleur Chicago Store
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Marshalls
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Chicago Souvenir Company
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Zebra Lounge
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The Lodge Tavern
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CloudBar at 360 CHICAGO
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Pippin’s Tavern
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Z Bar
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Bar on 4
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