Top Ten Chicago Beach Tips
You may think that Chicago's cold all the time. You'd be right during the winter months, but when June rolls around, there are usually more than a few hot days to enjoy. If you find yourself in Chicago in the summer, I hope you packed your swimsuit! The Lake Michigan beaches are beautiful, busy, brilliant places to spend a day. Here are some tips for the best afternoon during the Chicago summer:
1. Wear sunscreen. A no-brainer, but don't let the balmy lake breeze lull you into complacency. The sun here will burn you if you stay out in it. Take it from me!
2. Bring a beach blanket. The lake beaches get pretty crowded on the weekends. You're going to want to stake out your territory.
3. Go early. If you get to the beach by 9am on a Saturday, you can stake out a spot for the day. The Fullerton and North Avenue beaches get busy really quickly, but you're smart! You've already got your beach blanket and a prime spot!
4. Pack a cooler. Sure, you can go to Castaways (the huge boat-shaped building) on North Avenue beach, but why stand in line for expensive snacks when you can pack your own for a fraction of the cost?
5. Take a TimeOut Chicago. Plan your night out while you tan!
6. Pack a towel. You'll want to go swimming. Lake Michigan stays pleasantly cool throughout the summer. Just what the doctor ordered when temperatures soar!
7. Mind the Lakefront path. If you're walking to the beach, beware the Lakefront path. It gets very congested during the summer. You can walk on it, just be aware of the bicyclists and roller-bladers that will want to share the path with you.
8. Go North. If you want to sleep in, you can always head farther north to Montrose Harbor (north of Belmont Harbor). The beach there is a little less crowded than the two further south. Make sure to watch the morning news, though, sometimes Montrose beach is closed.
9. Keep on the grass. Sand not your thing? Head north from the Fullerton beach to large swaths of grass. If you're driving, you can pack a small grill and cookout in the park atmosphere. Also great for people travelling with pets - you can play frisbee with your dog!
10. Enjoy the locals. Chicago is the midwest. People will talk to you. Get tips from them. Ask them where you should grab a bite later, or catch a movie. You're going to be in pretty close quarters anyhow, might as well make some friends!
