Find North Shore Beach Park at the southern tip of Rogers Park, where Lake Michigan meets North Shore Avenue. Here, you’ll enjoy .66 acres of sandy beach, a quiet respite in the heart of busy Chicago. There is a lifeguard on duty, and swimming is permitted during those hours. Locals say it is one of the least crowded of the Chicago beaches, so you can enjoy a quiet afternoon here.
North Shore Beach History
At the southern end of Rogers Park, North Shore Beach is situated where North Shore Avenue and Lake Michigan meet. The street takes its name from the Town of North Shore which was once located in what is now known as Rogers Park. North Shore Beach is one of 18 street-end beaches that was added to the Chicago Park District’s roster in 1959. It was and still is an important respite for locals to the Rogers Park Neighborhood to escape crowded city living and enjoy a day on the water.
North Shore Beach Details
Lifeguards do man this beach, but there are no restrooms or changing facilities, so plan accordingly. The park opens at 6am daily, but swimming is only allowed between 11am and 7pm. Smoking, alcohol, and dogs are prohibited from the beach, and there is no paddle or board sport access to the Lake Michigan Water Trail. Additionally, kiteboarding is not allowed here.
North Shore Beach can be accessed by the Loyola Red Line Station or at bus stops at 96 Lunt, 147 Outer Drive Express, and 155 Devon. There is limited street parking. Once you’re here, enjoy uncrowded sandy shores and pristine views of Lake Michigan. Locals say this is one of the most uncrowded beaches in Chicago. You may just have it all to yourself, so plan on a relaxing afternoon of yoga, suntanning, or swimming.