As a travel enthusiast and blogger, I’ve explored countless cities, but Chicago holds a special place in my heart, especially when it comes to outdoor activities in the summer. The Windy City, known for its iconic skyline and deep-dish pizza, is also home to some fantastic swimming spots, perfect for cooling off during the city’s warm months. Whether you’re a local looking to relax by the water or a visitor wanting to experience the city’s beaches and pools, this guide will take you through the best places to go swimming in Chicago.
One of the standout features of Chicago is its proximity to Lake Michigan. The city boasts 26 miles of lakefront with numerous beaches that are not only great for swimming but also for lounging, picnicking, and people-watching. Chicago’s beaches are generally open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with lifeguards on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Let’s dive into some of the top beach destinations for swimming in Chicago.
1. North Avenue Beach: A Vibrant Hotspot for Swimmers
Location: 1600 N Lake Shore Dr
North Avenue Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Chicago, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views of the skyline. Located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, this beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, but the real highlight is the opportunity to swim in the clear, cool waters of Lake Michigan.
North Avenue Beach offers ample space for swimmers, with designated swim areas monitored by lifeguards. The water here is usually calm, making it a great option for both casual swimmers and families with children. After a refreshing swim, you can grab a bite at the Castaways Bar & Grill, a boat-shaped building right on the beach, or rent a paddleboard to explore the lake further.
Why I love North Avenue Beach: The vibrant energy, stunning skyline views, and variety of activities make it one of my top recommendations for anyone looking to swim and enjoy a full day at the beach.
2. Oak Street Beach: A Relaxing Urban Escape
Location: 1000 N Lake Shore Dr
Nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast neighborhood, Oak Street Beach is another prime swimming destination in Chicago. What sets Oak Street Beach apart is its proximity to downtown, making it the perfect spot to take a quick dip after exploring the city. The beach is smaller compared to others along the lakefront, but it has a more relaxed and laid-back vibe.
The clear waters of Lake Michigan provide an excellent swimming experience, and lifeguards ensure a safe environment. One of the best things about Oak Street Beach is its breathtaking view of Chicago’s skyscrapers, making it feel like a true urban oasis.
Why I love Oak Street Beach: It’s a peaceful, scenic spot with easy access to downtown. After a swim, you can walk to nearby shops or grab a coffee at a café along Michigan Avenue.
3. Montrose Beach: A Dog-Friendly Swimming Destination
Location: 4400 N Lake Shore Dr
Montrose Beach, located in Uptown, is a versatile beach perfect for those seeking a more low-key and spacious option. What makes Montrose Beach stand out is its dog-friendly policy. There’s a designated area where dogs can roam free, swim, and play, making it a favorite for dog owners. The main beach area is perfect for families, picnickers, and swimmers alike.
Montrose Beach offers calm waters for swimming, making it ideal for beginners and families with children. The beach also has a large grassy area for picnicking and sports, as well as several nearby trails for hiking or biking. If you’re interested in birdwatching, Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is nearby and worth a visit.
Why I love Montrose Beach: The combination of swimming, scenic views, and pet-friendly policies makes this beach a unique destination. It’s perfect for a relaxed day out with friends, family, or furry companions.
4. 63rd Street Beach: A South Side Gem
Location: 6300 S Lake Shore Dr
For those looking to explore Chicago’s South Side, 63rd Street Beach in Jackson Park is a fantastic spot for swimming. This historic beach is one of the city’s oldest and is known for its beautiful sandy shores and calm waters. It’s less crowded than North Avenue Beach, offering a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.
The beach is also home to the 63rd Street Beach House, a beautiful landmark building that adds to the charm of the area. This location is great for families, as it offers ample space for kids to play in the sand and swim in the lake. There are also barbecue grills and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a day-long outing.
Why I love 63rd Street Beach: Its historical significance, peaceful atmosphere, and family-friendly amenities make it a great option for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the more crowded beaches.
5. Foster Beach: Ideal for Families and Casual Swimmers
Location: 5200 N Lake Shore Dr
Foster Beach, located in the Edgewater neighborhood, is one of Chicago’s lesser-known beaches, making it a hidden gem for swimming and relaxation. The beach is more laid-back and less crowded than others, which makes it perfect for families and casual swimmers. Foster Beach offers calm, shallow waters that are ideal for children and beginner swimmers.
One of the things that makes Foster Beach stand out is the expansive green space surrounding it, perfect for picnics, sports, or simply relaxing in the shade. The beach also has a designated dog-friendly area, so you can bring your furry friend along for a swim.
Why I love Foster Beach: It’s a peaceful, family-friendly spot with great swimming conditions and plenty of green space for outdoor activities.
Indoor Pools: Year-Round Swimming in Chicago
While Chicago’s beaches are the go-to spots for summer swimming, the city also offers a variety of indoor swimming pools for those who want to swim year-round. Whether you’re looking to do some laps or just take a leisurely swim, these indoor pools are great options.
See Also: Where is Rogers Park, Chicago
6. Chicago Park District Pools: Affordable and Accessible Swimming
The Chicago Park District operates several indoor pools throughout the city, offering affordable and accessible swimming options for locals and visitors alike. Many of these pools are located in community centers and offer swim lessons, lap swimming, and open swim times. Here are a few standout pools to check out:
Homan Square Pool (3517 W Arthington St): A great option for lap swimming and swim lessons.
Douglas Park Pool (1401 S Sacramento Dr): Known for its spacious facility and family-friendly environment.
Willye B. White Park Pool (1610 W Howard St): A hidden gem located in the Rogers Park neighborhood.
Why I love Chicago Park District Pools: They provide an affordable, year-round swimming option for those who don’t want to brave the cold winters at the lake.
7. The Four Seasons Chicago: Luxurious Pool with a View
Location: 120 E Delaware Pl
If you’re looking for a more luxurious swimming experience, the indoor pool at The Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is the perfect destination. Located on the seventh floor, this pool offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, making it a unique place to swim. The pool is heated and features a Roman-inspired design, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
The Four Seasons pool is perfect for those who want to combine swimming with a little bit of luxury. After your swim, you can unwind in the whirlpool or take advantage of the hotel’s spa services.
Why I love The Four Seasons Pool: The combination of luxury, stunning views, and a peaceful ambiance makes it one of the best indoor pools in the city.
8. East Bank Club: A Swimmer’s Paradise
Location: 500 N Kingsbury St
For serious swimmers and fitness enthusiasts, the East Bank Club is a premier destination. This exclusive club offers both indoor and outdoor pools, allowing members to swim year-round. The club’s indoor pool is perfect for lap swimming, while the outdoor pool offers a relaxing space to soak up the sun during the summer months.
East Bank Club also offers swim lessons, aqua fitness classes, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city. While membership is required, day passes are available for visitors, making it a great option for tourists who want to maintain their fitness routine while exploring Chicago.
Why I love East Bank Club: The state-of-the-art facilities, variety of pools, and focus on fitness make it a great option for serious swimmers.
Unique Swimming Experiences in Chicago
In addition to traditional beaches and pools, Chicago offers some unique swimming experiences that are worth checking out.
9. Swim Across Lake Michigan: A Challenging Adventure
For experienced swimmers looking for a challenge, participating in a swim across Lake Michigan is a bucket-list-worthy experience. Several organized swims take place each summer, including the Chicago Open Water Swim and Swim Across America. These events range from shorter distances to full lake crossings, allowing swimmers of all levels to participate.
Why I love swimming across Lake Michigan: It’s an exhilarating challenge that combines the beauty of the lake with a sense of accomplishment.
10. Swim in a Rooftop Pool: Chicago’s Skyline Views
Several hotels in Chicago offer rooftop pools with stunning views of the city’s skyline. These pools are perfect for those who want to swim while taking in the beauty of Chicago from above. Some of the best rooftop pools include:
Virgin Hotel Chicago (203 N Wabash Ave): A stylish rooftop pool with a bar and lounge area.
Soho House Chicago (113-125 N Green St): A chic rooftop pool with great views of the West Loop.
Why I love rooftop pools in Chicago: They offer a unique way to experience the city, combining swimming with breathtaking views.
Conclusion
Chicago’s diverse range of swimming spots offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking to swim in the refreshing waters of Lake Michigan, enjoy a luxurious pool experience, or challenge yourself with an open-water swim. From the bustling North Avenue Beach to the serene Montrose Beach, and from indoor pools to rooftop escapes, the Windy City has it all. So next time you find yourself in Chicago during the summer or even the colder months, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit—you won’t want to miss out on these fantastic swimming destinations!
Related Topics：
Where to Ride Bikes in Chicago
