Ohio Street Beach
A sandy urban oasis on Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking Chicago skyline views and a vibrant atmosphere for swimming and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Ohio Street Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sandy urban oasis on Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking Chicago skyline views and a vibrant atmosphere for swimming and relaxation.
"The vibe was amazing — people soaking up the sun, playing music, and just enjoying summer to the fullest."
🔒 Free Beach Lockers
BYO lock for free lockers on the west end. Keep valuables safe while you swim or sunbathe!
🏊 Open-Water Swimming
Swim hours are 11 AM-7 PM. Check official sources for open-water practice times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Skyline Views
Gaze at the breathtaking Chicago skyline from the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. A truly urban beach experience.
Open-Water Swimming
A prime spot for dedicated swimmers to train in Lake Michigan, offering a unique urban aquatic adventure.
Convenient Lockers
Secure your valuables with free lockers available on the western end of the beach. Just bring your own lock!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Skyline Views
Open-Water Swimming Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔒 Free Beach Lockers
BYO lock for free lockers on the west end. Keep valuables safe while you swim or sunbathe!
🏊 Open-Water Swimming
Swim hours are 11 AM-7 PM. Check official sources for open-water practice times.
☀️ Bring Your Own Gear
Chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, but bringing your own is budget-friendly.
🏙️ Skyline Photo Ops
The north-facing beach offers stunning city views, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔒 Free Beach Lockers
BYO lock for free lockers on the west end. Keep valuables safe while you swim or sunbathe!
🏊 Open-Water Swimming
Swim hours are 11 AM-7 PM. Check official sources for open-water practice times.
☀️ Bring Your Own Gear
Chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, but bringing your own is budget-friendly.
🏙️ Skyline Photo Ops
The north-facing beach offers stunning city views, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ohio Street Beach is celebrated for its stunning Chicago skyline views and vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular urban escape. Visitors appreciate the convenience of free lockers and the availability of lifeguards and restrooms. While it can get busy, there's generally ample space to relax and enjoy the lake. +1
"Ohio Street Beach offers a lively, summer-perfect vibe with stunning skyline views. Even when it’s busy there’s room to stretch out and enjoy the sun. Lifeguards keep watch, restrooms make changing easy, and you can grab ice cream for a cool treat. A great spot to relax, tan, and take in both the lake and the city backdrop."
Hewacin Rshdu
"Ohio Street Beach is such a fun spot and has a great atmosphere. Even when it’s crowded, there’s still plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the day. The view of the skyline is gorgeous, and it really adds to the whole experience of being by the water. There are lifeguards on duty, restrooms up front for changing, and even ice cream available if you’re craving a treat. The vibe was amazing — people soaking up the sun, playing music, and just enjoying summer to the fullest. It’s the perfect place to relax, get a tan, and take in both the lake and the city views."
Jackson Riley
"Great beach near Navy Pier. Impressive views of the city and the water. The fresh water is clean and refreshing. $66 will get you two chairs and an umbrella, but before you complain about it, please know that you can bring your own! Bring a packed picnic cooler, some shades, sunblock, flip flops, and a towel, and you are RTG! Ice cream carts jingle past now and then. Just delightful!"
Ethan Paige
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ohio Street Beach is conveniently located near Navy Pier. You can reach it via public transportation, with several bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there's a parking lot, but it can fill up quickly. Many visitors also walk or bike along the lakefront trail.
While some parks in the area are dog-friendly, Ohio Street Beach itself is primarily for human beachgoers. For dog-friendly options, consider nearby parks like Montrose Dog Beach.
Yes, Ohio Street Beach is easily accessible on foot from many downtown Chicago locations, especially if you're near Navy Pier or the Magnificent Mile. It's part of the extensive lakefront trail system.
To safely cross the busy Lake Shore Drive to access Ohio Street Beach, use the underground pedestrian tunnels. These tunnels are designed for easy access and keep you safe from traffic.
Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors, but it's often busy, especially during peak season. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ohio Street Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and lake access for free.
Swimming is generally permitted from 11 AM to 7 PM daily during the summer season. It's always a good idea to check the Chicago Park District website for the most up-to-date hours.
Absolutely! While chairs and umbrellas are available for rent, you are welcome to bring your own to ensure comfort and save money.
Yes, restrooms are available at Ohio Street Beach, making it convenient for changing and freshening up.
Lifeguards are typically on duty during designated swimming hours to ensure visitor safety.
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
Ohio Street Beach is popular for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the stunning Chicago skyline views. It's also a hub for open-water swimmers and a pleasant spot for a stroll along the lakefront.
The entire beach offers fantastic photo opportunities with the city skyline as a backdrop. Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic shots.
Yes, families can enjoy Ohio Street Beach. It offers a safe environment with lifeguards, restrooms, and plenty of space to play. The calm waters are suitable for children.
Fishing is a popular activity along the lakefront near Ohio Street Beach. You'll often see people casting lines from the shore or nearby piers.
Ohio Street Beach has a vibrant and lively atmosphere, especially during summer. It attracts a diverse crowd, from sunbathers and swimmers to runners and families. +1
🍽️ 🍦 Food & Dining
Yes, ice cream carts frequently pass by, offering a cool treat on a hot day. For more substantial meals, consider bringing a picnic or exploring the numerous restaurants near Navy Pier.
Bringing your own picnic is a great idea! Pack a cooler with your favorite snacks and drinks to enjoy on the sand.
While direct concessions are limited to ice cream carts, the proximity to Navy Pier means many dining options are just a short walk away.
📸 📸 Photography
For stunning skyline photos, aim for the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The soft light creates a magical atmosphere.
The iconic Chicago skyline is the star, but also capture the lake, beachgoers enjoying themselves, and the unique urban beach setting.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional shoots or commercial photography may require permits from the Chicago Park District.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the sand, as food options are limited to ice cream carts. Bringing your own beach toys, towels, and sun protection is essential. The easy access via underground tunnels also makes it a stress-free destination for families navigating the city.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Open-water swimmers will find Ohio Street Beach to be a prime spot for training. Adhering to the official swimming hours (11 AM-7 PM) is recommended for safety, and the beach provides a good environment for building endurance in Lake Michigan.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the skyline, capture the dynamic energy of the beach itself – swimmers, sunbathers, and the vastness of Lake Michigan. The free lockers are a bonus, allowing you to secure your gear while you focus on getting the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Urban Beach Experience
This beach is a popular spot for a variety of activities. Open-water swimmers use it as a training ground, taking advantage of the relatively calm lake waters. Runners and cyclists frequent the adjacent lakefront trail, making it a scenic route for exercise. Families enjoy the sandy shores for building sandcastles and playing, while others simply relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
One of the most appreciated features is the availability of free lockers on the western end, allowing visitors to secure their belongings with their own lock. This practical amenity adds to the convenience of a day spent at Ohio Street Beach, reducing worries about watching over valuables.
Open-Water Swimming at Ohio Street Beach
It's important to note the official swimming hours, which are typically from 11 AM to 7 PM. While you might see swimmers outside these hours, adhering to the designated times ensures safety and compliance with park regulations. Always check the Chicago Park District's official website for the most current information on swimming hours and any potential alerts.
When planning your swim, consider bringing appropriate gear. Wetsuits might be necessary depending on the water temperature, and a brightly colored swim cap can increase visibility. The presence of lifeguards during official hours adds an extra layer of security for swimmers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit