63rd Street Beach
Chicago
Check out Belly Up for Jamaican food, perfect after a swim or long day in the sun.
Located in Jackson Park, 63rd Street Beach is a Chicago destination known for its array of offerings and picturesque setting along Lake Michigan. The beach provides ample opportunities for leisure and recreation, attracting individuals and families alike. Visitors can indulge in Jamaican cuisine at the nearby eatery Belly Up or find snacks and beverages at Leave With a Smile, enhancing a day out on the sand.
This popular spot is not just about lounging by the water. The historic beach house offers essential amenities, including restrooms, showers, and meeting rooms, with rentals available for the beach house, making it a convenient option for events. Those looking to explore on two wheels can rent bikes from Bike Chicago, while a non-motorized boat launch allows access to the water for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Nature enthusiasts benefit from a designated natural area providing a habitat for migrating birds, particularly appealing during the spring and fall migration seasons. For those seeking active pursuits, distance swimming opportunities are located parallel to shore at 64th Street, between designated buoys.
Accessibility is a notable feature, as the beach includes an ADA accessible path to the shoreline and offers beach wheelchairs at no cost to those with a valid ID. Visitors can pay and display at the parking lot, making it easier to access the site. With a design influenced by the legendary planners of New York's Central Park, 63rd Street Beach combines leisure with a sense of history. It's a place catering to diverse interests, from swimming and beachcombing to bird watching and enjoying casual bites.
Reviews
This is a great beach to relax and wade in. The water is very shallow and calm. The sand is nice and soft, no rocks or pebbles and there is a nice fountain to rinse off in before you go back to your car. The parking lot to the immediate south is kind of confusing though because you have to scan a QR code in order to not get sent a ticket in the mail automatically. So be careful which lot you park in.
It's that time of year to spend time in summertime chi! You have amazing views of the Obama Center, the city museums, Hyde Park and so much more! There is parking available as well and trails to connect it all. If you own a boat, you can enjoy the lakefront and golfing too! I enjoyed myself and love living in Chicago 😎
Had a great Memorial Day here with the family! It wasn’t too crowded, plenty of lifeguards on hand (both on the beach and in a row boat in the water) to keep everyone safe. There’s also a really big splash pad for the kids to play in that’s supper cool. The only drawback is parking. It’s extremely limited so you’ll probably have to park across the street at Jackson Park and walk over.
This is a really great beach spot for everyone, little kids, teens, and adults alike. One of the best features is how shallow the water stays for a long distance, making it enjoyable and comfortable for swimmers of all ages and ability levels. There is also a large fountain area inside the beach house where kids can play and cool off if they need a break from the beach, which adds another fun option for families. Overall, it is a fun and relaxing place to spend the day. The only real downside is the expensive parking, but aside from that, it was a great beach experience.
I came here on a Monday morning. The beach was almost entirely empty. There is parking within a close walk, which is not free, but only about $4 an hour. The beach was clean, and I felt completely safe here. They also have a pier you can walk out on. I loved my time here, it was very relaxing.
