As the end of summer approaches and the final days of warm weather hold on, take advantage of Chicago’s Lakefront. From swimming, biking, walking, playing sports, sights to see, places to dine at, there is so much to do on the Lakefront that you can squeeze most in one day or make many days out of it!
Activities with Equipment to Rent
You can rent fun equipment for a few hours at many places along the Lakefront. This is perfect for out of towners or even natives who might not have this type of equipment at home or even for convenience!
Divvy stations with regular bikes, electric scooters, and even e-bikes that make peddling longer distances easier, are scattered all across the lakefront or near for you to cruise! You can download the Divvy app or use the Lyft app to access the closest divvy bikes available near you!
If you’re looking for ways to get out onto the water, rent a jet ski, kayak, or a paddleboard!
Chicago Beaches
A free way to get out into the water and relax is heading to one of our beaches! Chicago has sand beaches such as Oak Street Beach, Ohio Street Beach, and more. At Ohio Street Beach, you’re close to Navy Pier, a Divvy station, and have great views of Chicago’s Playpen, where boats anchor.
Oak Street Beach is one of the beaches in Chicago that has considerably the best view. On top of the views, this beach also has a restaurant facing the beach. Whispers at Oak Street Beach serves food and drinks as well as Oak Street Beach Restaurant.
Here, you can also challenge your friends to a fun match of sand volleyball. Plenty of courts are available for everyone to share!
Head to North Avenue Beach Pier for a perfect setting to watch the sunset behind Chicago’s skyscrapers. In addition to the sandy beaches, people also recognize Chicago for its “concrete” beaches. Just south of North Avenue Beach of Chicago is the concrete beach. Here, many go to sit out and relax or even jump off the edge for a refreshing dip in Lake Michigan.
Chicago Diversey Driving Range and Mini Golf
This golf facility has one of Chicagoland’s best views. The Diversey Driving Range has a synthetic turf range, two synthetic putting greens, 18 holes of miniature golf, covered and heated hitting mat areas, PGA instructions, club rentals, and a two tiered range. The upper level of the range gives off picture worthy views of Lincoln Park Zoo, Lake Michigan, Diversey Harbor, and Chicago.
Queen’s Landing
Queens Landing is a historical landmark, another concrete pier along Lake Michigan sitting directly across Buckingham Fountain. Its name originates from Queen Elizabeth II’s visit on July 5th, 1959. This was her only U.S stop. Queen Elizabeth spent only 13 hours here on her way to Canada.
Stop at Buckingham Fountain for photos of one of the largest fountains in the world! You can also find one of our stops for our Water Taxi Service. Our lakeside service can take you to the Museum Campus or back to Navy Pier.
Museum Campus
The place that has it all, Museum Campus! Walk over to the Adler Planetarium to get a glimpse of space. Its also the first planetarium in the United States.
At the Chicago Field Museum, dwell into the worlds past. Lastly, at the John G. Shedd Aquarium, have fun with all kinds of animals to see, and even a dolphin show!
Despite its name, there isn’t only museums here to visit. The Lakefront path in Chicago goes further south. This means there are few places to sit, read a book, or enjoy the views of Chicago’s beautiful skyline. Although be cautious, there are designated areas that allow diving and swimming, over here is not one!
