North Avenue Beach stretches along Lake Michigan in Lincoln Park, just north of downtown Chicago. Its broad sandy shore pairs a close-up view of the city skyline with room to sunbathe, walk or play volleyball. The blue-and-white beach house, shaped like an ocean liner, gives the waterfront a distinctive landmark; nearby, you can find restrooms, concessions and places to eat. In summer, the beach draws a lively crowd and hosts volleyball tournaments and the Chicago Air and Water Show. Swimming is possible, but shallow water and limits on how far you can go out make it better suited to a dip than a long swim.
A lakefront beach in Lincoln Park
North Avenue Beach is on Lake Michigan in Lincoln Park, close to downtown Chicago. Its wide stretch of sand gives you room to relax by the water, take a walk or watch the activity on the shore. The city skyline rises behind the lake, and the view changes as you move between the beach, boardwalk and pier.
The beach is a busy summer destination. Volleyball courts and water-sport rentals bring active visitors to the shore, while others come to sunbathe or enjoy the lakefront paths. The setting also makes it a convenient stop alongside nearby Lincoln Park attractions.
The beach house and waterfront facilities
The blue-and-white beach house is designed to resemble an ocean liner pulled up beside the shore. It is a landmark as well as a practical stop, with restrooms and concessions. Food and drink options are also available nearby, including Castaways, a boat-shaped bar and restaurant on the beach.
Free Wi-Fi is available at North Avenue Beach. The broader waterfront area has paths for walking, running and cycling, and rental options for activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are mentioned for the beach. Availability of rentals can depend on the season and conditions, so check locally if you are planning around a specific activity.
Swimming, sports and summer events
Volleyball is one of the beach’s main activities, with courts and tournaments drawing players through the summer. You can also use the shore for a lakeside walk or look into water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The beach hosts the Chicago Air and Water Show, which brings a different reason to watch the lakefront from here.
Swimming is possible, though the water near shore is shallow and swimming farther out is restricted. If your main goal is a long swim, this may not be the beach that best fits your plans. For a mix of sand, city views and a lively summer atmosphere, North Avenue Beach makes a useful lakefront stop.
FAQ
Is North Avenue Beach free to visit?
The beach is free to visit. Food, rentals and other services may have separate costs.
Where is North Avenue Beach?
It is on Lake Michigan in Lincoln Park, just north of downtown Chicago.
Can you swim at North Avenue Beach?
Swimming is possible, but the water near shore is shallow and swimming farther out is restricted.
What can you do at North Avenue Beach?
Relax on the sand, play volleyball, walk or cycle along the waterfront, and look into water-sport rentals. The beach also hosts the Chicago Air and Water Show.
