Stretching over ten blocks of Lake Michigan coastline on North Shore Drive in the heart of Chicago, Oak St Beach is one of the most popular and most crowded city beaches. Wide and covered with fine soft sand, the beach is lined by tall palm trees that provide pleasant shade on hot summer days.
The lake water is surprisingly clear, and the views of the city skyline are spectacular. Let the kids run around, throw a Frisbee, make sand castles, play in the water, or watch lovely boats gliding across the lake.
There are plenty of food vendors if they get hungry or just crave an ice cream.
The beach is a great place to people-watch, but kids might be more attracted by a massive mural on the wall that runs parallel to the Lakefront Trail and reminds people to keep the beach clean and not feed the birds.
Ready to go?
Step 1: Visit the website and book directly and/or call ahead to confirm their hours.
Step 2: If you are spending the night, search for Hotel Deals nearby. Call the hotel directly to book and ask for a romantic, kid-friendly or pet-friendly amenity if you need it.
Step 3: If you are flying, compare Flights. Book directly with the airline, add your frequent flier number and reserve your seat.
Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).
Need some more help?
Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.