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Big spacious park with track, sports fields, walk/bike path, beach volleyball, playgrounds and more. I brought my two small kids to the playground and to have a picnic while my husband played beach volleyball. Parking is usually not difficulty and there are spaces throughout the park.
A swimmable beach right along side one of the country's most major cities?! This past Monday, while on a three day trip to Chicago, I had Montrose Beach at the top of my to-do list. I love how you can park so close, and for free! Even though it was winter, standing along the sand and watching the waves from a distance was just so darn peaceful. I can't wait to come back during the spring or the summer. I hear that there'll be plenty of people windsurfing, swimming and playing volleyball.
Awesome beach! A great Chicago beach if you're trying to stay away from larger crowds like on the beaches closer to the city
Recommend visiting. Came at a tourist. Cool to see beach with city in view. Relatively easy to get too. Was able to take uber there and back and pickup was simple. Can make a day trip out of it and play volleyball and things outdoors. It was busy on a foggy rainy day in Chicago when we went.
Certainly is one of the most popular places in summer for Chicago. It has a lot going on around here. Montrose Beach is located north of Lincoln Park. Amenities include bathrooms and concessions among just a few. This also has a dog beach and a bird sanctuary. Big ass beach. It's not like it's actually that big, but for around here it certainly is. The beach has a few ways to get around it, including an ADA accessible beach walk. Dogs have their own part of the beach. Even has a bar and grill you can walk up to and get something. Beach house is modeled after the one on North Avenue. It looks like a lake steamer. The amenities here include concessions, restrooms, and showers, but any good beach has these things. Also has kayak and volleyball rentals. South of here is a bird sanctuary. A lot of migrant birds come by in the spring and autumn. North of the regular beach is a beach just for dogs. Also distance swimming is available north of the boathouse. There's also a non-motorized boat launch. Has a lot of reasons to come whether swimming or something else. It's located between the avenue of the same name and Lawrence. The CTA buses on these streets have the routes extended to here in summer so getting here won't involve so much walking.
Pretty sight for sunset and sunrise too! It's relatively a low key area of Uptown, but I love it there because of the nice sandy beach and the view of downtown! Before you reach the beach, there's a nice park with lots of trees and grassy areas. There are plenty of parking spaces, but you need to pay for parking! This beach is pet friendly! There is a separate dog beach here too. People bring their dogs and I love them!
It's probably one of the largest actual beaches on the Northside. You find plenty of sand, outdoor dining, migratory birds from adjacent nature preserve and an equally awesome dog beach just to the North.theres lots of sports fields, a marina and a skatepark as well. One of my favorite things to do is to start out on the nature preserve trail and walk out to the Montrose beach beacon offering some great views of the city and the lake. Heading south along the water front has the great skyline views. It's a big of an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city all year long.
I meannnnn lol. It's a beach in Chicago. It does make me sad that there is so much garbage and glass in the sand. My future hubs plays an ultimate tournament here every year and to see people get cut bc of people littering is super depressing and annoying. Tip - get here between 7am-8am for better parking. This beach fills up extremely quick especially when the weather is sunny and hot.
It's a Chicago beach where many locals go. This isn't California nor Florida beach so comparatively, the bathrooms are dirty. I like Montrose Beach because of it's ease of parking, accessibility of pushing things with wheels (wheelchair, wagon, etc.), and a shore restaurant. Again, it's a family friendly place where many locals go. This isn't like North Ave or Oak St. beach where there are young people without little children and over priced bar. Many little ones (with grown ups) play in the sand and in the lake. The restaurant is reasonably priced for a restaurant near the beach.
We love this beach. Weather it is digging in the sand, watching the sunrise, or going for a swim on a hot summer day. Huge beach that is water accessible for most via a nice "sidewalk" that allows strollers and such a way to roll down without getting bogged down in the sand. There are usually ice cream vendors on nice days and two dining options. Paddle Board rentals. The whole nine yards. I have been visiting this beach since childhood when there was no wind we would walk from the harbour and now living in the neighbourhood.
12/17/20 - Montrose Beach? Did you even know there was a beach @ Montrose? As I was walking through the Bird Sanctuary I came out on the east side and was surprised by a large open beach. Like I said I have been to Montrose Harbor before and never realized there is a large beach front along Lake Michigan. As I walked on the beach toward the lake there was quite a bit of wave action rolling in. It's beautiful to see the many faces of Lake Michigan from glass smooth to rolling wave to gale force winds. I noticed a large patch of white area on the beach approaching cautiously as I wasn't sure what was under the snow. As I stepped forward I'm glad I was cautious because I could hear the ice cracking under my feet. There wasn't no real danger other then possibly getting wet feet where there could have been puddles but why take the chance in 30 degree weather. I skirted around this large patch to the south where I could see sand under foot. There is a pier that juts out into the lake and I wanted to go out and get a closer look at the waves rolling in. This proved to be a circuitous route but what the heck I was out for the walk anyway. The concrete pier proved to be a little daunting as the waves would come up on the concrete occasionally. There were some ice patches so I was a little hesitant as there was absolute no one around. Still I went out and was rewarded with some beautiful photo ops and a magnificent view of the beach w/the waves rolling in. It's really cool to discover this beach cause I wasn't even aware that there was one there. Now that I know I'm sure I'll be back again
There's something about Montrose Beach that reminds me of my hometown beach. I grew up near Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. It's spacious, never too crowded and offers several areas for parking. In one place you have gorgeous views of the city. There's a rustic walking trail. The beach bar & grill offers so much fun during the summer. Huge mature trees with the lake as a backdrop leave me thinking of all the good time had here over the decades. Although there is no sandy beach to enter the lake for a swim in the areas I visit, this spot along the lakefront is so relaxing and one of my favorite stops. I head over to this area in all seasons alone or with friends. It's always gorgeous.
OMG! This place is so much better now primarily with all the first class sand that seem to go on forever. Previously there was a water peninsula separating the beach area- now it's just all fine sand the kind you sink your toes in. The water is crystal clear! The beach is shallow for a distance so you can walk in the water quite far. Plus facilities are nearby. The Dock an outdoor eating joint with live band every night is right there. Vendors for ice cream or Latin taste is also nearby. You can also take cover in the trees if you don't want to burn. It's near enough the beach. There's also a HUGE dog beach. Really the only drawback is, unless you can walk here - it's best to come BEFORE 9:30am for parking.
3 months ago
My favorite Chicago beach! Each morning you can see people at 5 AM enjoying the sunrise. Montrose has less crowds but you can still rent a kayak or join a volleyball league for the summer. There are several bus options to get you there but they are a slight walk, unlike North Ave. read more
We visited on a trip to Chicago. It was a hot summer day so we enjoyed being by the water. The beach is extensive with plenty of space to spread out. Parking can be tricky but we easily found free parking. The parking areas can get busy so be mindful when pulling out to leave. The harbor is well-maintained and beautiful! There are a few places for snacks in the area as well as restrooms. There is also a dog beach! My suggestion would be to amp up the restaurant scene to improve the drink and food quality. read more
2 months ago
Big spacious park with track, sports fields, walk/bike path, beach volleyball, playgrounds and more. I brought my two small kids to the playground and to have a picnic while my husband played beach volleyball. Parking is usually not difficulty and there are spaces throughout the park. read more
2 months ago
A swimmable beach right along side one of the country's most major cities?! This past Monday, while on a three day trip to Chicago, I had Montrose Beach at the top of my to-do list. I love how you can park so close, and for free! Even though it was winter, standing along the sand and watching the waves from a distance was just so darn peaceful. I can't wait to come back during the spring or the summer. I hear that there'll be plenty of people windsurfing, swimming and playing volleyball. read more
2 months ago
Awesome beach! A great Chicago beach if you're trying to stay away from larger crowds like on the beaches closer to the city read more
3 months ago
Recommend visiting. Came at a tourist. Cool to see beach with city in view. Relatively easy to get too. Was able to take uber there and back and pickup was simple. Can make a day trip out of it and play volleyball and things outdoors. It was busy on a foggy rainy day in Chicago when we went. read more
Certainly is one of the most popular places in summer for Chicago. It has a lot going on around here. Montrose Beach is located north of Lincoln Park. Amenities include bathrooms and concessions among just a few. This also has a dog beach and a bird sanctuary. Big ass beach. It's not like it's actually that big, but for around here it certainly is. The beach has a few ways to get around it, including an ADA accessible beach walk. Dogs have their own part of the beach. Even has a bar and grill you can walk up to and get something. Beach house is modeled after the one on North Avenue. It looks like a lake steamer. The amenities here include concessions, restrooms, and showers, but any good beach has these things. Also has kayak and volleyball rentals. South of here is a bird sanctuary. A lot of migrant birds come by in the spring and autumn. North of the regular beach is a beach just for dogs. Also distance swimming is available north of the boathouse. There's also a non-motorized boat launch. Has a lot of reasons to come whether swimming or something else. It's located between the avenue of the same name and Lawrence. The CTA buses on these streets have the routes extended to here in summer so getting here won't involve so much walking. read more
2 years ago
Pretty sight for sunset and sunrise too! It's relatively a low key area of Uptown, but I love it there because of the nice sandy beach and the view of downtown! Before you reach the beach, there's a nice park with lots of trees and grassy areas. There are plenty of parking spaces, but you need to pay for parking! This beach is pet friendly! There is a separate dog beach here too. People bring their dogs and I love them! read more
2 years ago
It's probably one of the largest actual beaches on the Northside. You find plenty of sand, outdoor dining, migratory birds from adjacent nature preserve and an equally awesome dog beach just to the North.theres lots of sports fields, a marina and a skatepark as well. One of my favorite things to do is to start out on the nature preserve trail and walk out to the Montrose beach beacon offering some great views of the city and the lake. Heading south along the water front has the great skyline views. It's a big of an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city all year long. read more
3 years ago
I meannnnn lol. It's a beach in Chicago. It does make me sad that there is so much garbage and glass in the sand. My future hubs plays an ultimate tournament here every year and to see people get cut bc of people littering is super depressing and annoying. Tip - get here between 7am-8am for better parking. This beach fills up extremely quick especially when the weather is sunny and hot. read more
3 years ago
It's a Chicago beach where many locals go. This isn't California nor Florida beach so comparatively, the bathrooms are dirty. I like Montrose Beach because of it's ease of parking, accessibility of pushing things with wheels (wheelchair, wagon, etc.), and a shore restaurant. Again, it's a family friendly place where many locals go. This isn't like North Ave or Oak St. beach where there are young people without little children and over priced bar. Many little ones (with grown ups) play in the sand and in the lake. The restaurant is reasonably priced for a restaurant near the beach. read more
We love this beach. Weather it is digging in the sand, watching the sunrise, or going for a swim on a hot summer day. Huge beach that is water accessible for most via a nice "sidewalk" that allows strollers and such a way to roll down without getting bogged down in the sand. There are usually ice cream vendors on nice days and two dining options. Paddle Board rentals. The whole nine yards. I have been visiting this beach since childhood when there was no wind we would walk from the harbour and now living in the neighbourhood. read more
12/17/20 - Montrose Beach? Did you even know there was a beach @ Montrose? As I was walking through the Bird Sanctuary I came out on the east side and was surprised by a large open beach. Like I said I have been to Montrose Harbor before and never realized there is a large beach front along Lake Michigan. As I walked on the beach toward the lake there was quite a bit of wave action rolling in. It's beautiful to see the many faces of Lake Michigan from glass smooth to rolling wave to gale force winds. I noticed a large patch of white area on the beach approaching cautiously as I wasn't sure what was under the snow. As I stepped forward I'm glad I was cautious because I could hear the ice cracking under my feet. There wasn't no real danger other then possibly getting wet feet where there could have been puddles but why take the chance in 30 degree weather. I skirted around this large patch to the south where I could see sand under foot. There is a pier that juts out into the lake and I wanted to go out and get a closer look at the waves rolling in. This proved to be a circuitous route but what the heck I was out for the walk anyway. The concrete pier proved to be a little daunting as the waves would come up on the concrete occasionally. There were some ice patches so I was a little hesitant as there was absolute no one around. Still I went out and was rewarded with some beautiful photo ops and a magnificent view of the beach w/the waves rolling in. It's really cool to discover this beach cause I wasn't even aware that there was one there. Now that I know I'm sure I'll be back again read more
There's something about Montrose Beach that reminds me of my hometown beach. I grew up near Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. It's spacious, never too crowded and offers several areas for parking. In one place you have gorgeous views of the city. There's a rustic walking trail. The beach bar & grill offers so much fun during the summer. Huge mature trees with the lake as a backdrop leave me thinking of all the good time had here over the decades. Although there is no sandy beach to enter the lake for a swim in the areas I visit, this spot along the lakefront is so relaxing and one of my favorite stops. I head over to this area in all seasons alone or with friends. It's always gorgeous. read more
OMG! This place is so much better now primarily with all the first class sand that seem to go on forever. Previously there was a water peninsula separating the beach area- now it's just all fine sand the kind you sink your toes in. The water is crystal clear! The beach is shallow for a distance so you can walk in the water quite far. Plus facilities are nearby. The Dock an outdoor eating joint with live band every night is right there. Vendors for ice cream or Latin taste is also nearby. You can also take cover in the trees if you don't want to burn. It's near enough the beach. There's also a HUGE dog beach. Really the only drawback is, unless you can walk here - it's best to come BEFORE 9:30am for parking. read more
"Here is my 4-Paws review for the dog friendly area of Montrose Beach in Chicago. My owners took me, my sister Maisie and cousin Frankie to #Mondogbeach on a Friday before noon. We had so much fun meeting the many other dogs that were off leash and fetching toys like us. It was a little chaotic at first and hard to tell who was going to retrieve our toys we brought, but a great place to go and a lot of fun. The only thing that could have made our visit better was the beach here is a little bit dirty in some spots, but my owner stopped to read signs for future beach clean-ups. We liked seeing the fun area at Mutt Jackson's but some of the items at the stand including the dog wash seem to be a little over-priced to my owners so they passed on making any purchases. (I'm hoping they will at least get me some doggie ice cream next time maybe)? They have cold drinks for humans too. The parking here was easy on the morning we arrived early during the week but I understand it can get a little crowded and your owner may have to park further down and walk you on a leash until you get to the enclosed beach area. If you can't hold it and you need to you know...do your business...your owner can clean up after you and find plenty of garbage cans to put waste in. I had so much fun retrieving my toys on the sandbar of the beach and even on a day where the waves were record high, you could still run out into the shallow water, if you're a big dog like me. I will definitely be back many times to enjoy this beach!" - Hamish (Beloved Chesador, age 4) read more
7 years ago
This is a great area to: take a walk or bike ride along the paths; walk your dog; sit on the rocks and ponder about things; fish; bird watch (there is a bird sanctuary on-site); or to grab a bite to eat at The Dock Restaurant. HOWEVER: It seemed pretty muddy near the sandy areas and the quality of the sand does not present itself to the same experience as North Avenue or Oak Street Beach. What I liked: The views of Downtown Chicago, the Lake Front, and Rogers Park are indeed breath-taking; while, still offering its own little sanctuary with silence, peace, and the sounds of birds chirping. Plus there is an attached BIRD SANCTUARY! read more
This is a small beach just north of the bird sanctuary. This beautiful November day we were in town and wanted to get out to enjoy the weather and keep our distance from others. This happens to be a busy DOG beach and the dogs were loving it. I wish I had my dog. My dog isn't a fan of the water but would love the exploration of this area. It looked like a blast. I was missing my Puggle. Have a great day. Enjoy the photos. read more
9 years ago
Montrose Beach is great because it is conveniently located in the park. You can barbeque, play lots of games as there is a lot of open grass to run around in. Or you can just be a beach bum and lay on the sand or swim in the lake all day. Its huge so there's always a spot waiting for you. Lots of street parking and also a metered parking lot in the vicinity. We have birthday parties here a lot because you can invite as many people as you'd like! There's also public bathrooms for you to change into your swimsuit, and a cute little outdoor bar to grab a few drinks and some quick bites. There's plenty of trees in the park area so if you're not a sun worshipper like me, there are places to take cover under! Overall, Montrose Beach is a great area to relax and unwind. I definitely recommend it! read more
I don't have a dog so that is not a reason for me to come to this particular beach. Getting away from North Ave Beach is, however. My Son also plays Football (and I coach) at the Montrose Fields too so we get here plenty often. The beach is spacious, well maintained and usually free from the crazy kids you can find further South towards downtown. As a 22+ yr Chicaogoan w a 12 yr old son we've logged in a ton of time at many of the Cgo beaches and this is a good one! read more
Walking on the lakeshore path, watching the joggers come and go, and laying on the rock for a quiet, comfy nap was a five (5)-star experience, except minus one (1) star for forgetting my travel pillow and blanket. Coming to the Montrose Beach was a spontaneous plan this Sunday afternoon. It has been quite surprisingly for the warm weather in early October. We Chicagoans should take a full advantage of this blessing from our dear Mother Nature because I'm sure that her mood will soon change for the worst! Parking is free if you can find a spot nearby. Otherwise, the CTA busses that serve the inner and outer lakeshore drives should get you there close enough. I'm not an exercise junkie or a gym class hero, so I simply came for the pleasure of appreciating the lovely sky, embracing the gentle breeze, and perhaps a little bit of people-watching if I'm still, somehow, awake. read more
I was in the area recently for a family reunion of sorts and I was pleased to find that our house was less than a mile from the lakefront path and Montrose Beach. I am a runner so I decided this would be where I would get my cardio on in the mornings. Unfortunately, the weather turned from springtime back to wintertime during my visit....35-40 degrees and snow! But that was not going to stop me! The path close to Lakeshore Drive was clean and well-maintained. I saw plenty of other runners and bikers and I never felt unsafe. I was hoping for nicer weather to be able to enjoy the beach a bit more, but from what I saw it looks like it would be lovely in the summertime! Great views of the city and several other park amenities (track, playgrounds, etc). I believe there is also free parking (the FREE part being the important part) which makes it convenient on another level. read more
One of my favorite beaches. Has a great view of the skyline which is simply breathtaking. There's a lot of grassy area to lounge around and have a picnic, if you look around, you may even see an elote cart that sells not only the most delicious elotes I've had, but also Mexican fruit cups which are perfect on a hot summer day. There is also an abundance of parking surrounding the area, and a dog park near by! read more
I will bump the rating once the weather becomes nicer with the assumption that the sand volleyball courts will be leveled out by Summertime. We came here on a windy 50 degrees day to no nets and sand strewn about. From what I observed, the sand is actually very fine, smoother and softer than the sand at North Ave. I'm sure the Parks crew just has to come and spread the sand around when they put the nets up. There are considerably less courts compared to North Ave, but that just adds to the charm. I didn't observe any trash other than some pieces of concrete, which again will likely be cleaned up once they gear up for volleyball season. It's nice that there's a shelter and restroom facilities nearby, as well as a bar and grill not too far of a walk from the courts. See you in July! read more
Chicago has everything...including beaches! I usually end up going to Montrose Beach because it seems less crowded than the other beaches, and I have a dog. So, the Montrose Dog Beach is an excellent place to go for me to relax and watch pups having fun. If I had describe Montrose Beach in a few words, it would be spacious and lively. If you go to the dog beach, there are a lot of dogs running around. You also run the risk of getting peed on by a dog. However, that's sort of what you've signed up for if you're at a beach for dogs. The beach is pretty clean and people seem to be good about picking up their dog's poop. Although there are usually both a lot of dogs and people at the beach, it never seems overly crowded. There is plenty of space to spread out. One thing that is a downside for me is that the fences on the edges of the beach are pretty low. My dog is hyper and has jumped them or gone through holes in the fences before. So, I am always somewhat on high alert when I go to the dog beach. I've also heard of incidents of dogs getting in fights at the beach. So it is good to be aware of your surroundings and, if you bring a dog, keep a close eye on it. read more
4 years ago
10 years ago
There are so many beautiful beaches in Chicago but Montrose Beach has become my favorite beach so far. It's a very peaceful and relaxing beach. White sand and blue water keep me coming back here. A popular beach but never too crowded. It's a perfect spot for me to get some sun, relax and empty my brain. I try to come here once a week on my weekend, I want to do this till the summer ends and I wish we will have a longer summer this year. I want to be more tan and working on it, half way through, lol There is a dog beach next door if you would like to go and play with the doggies and make some new friends. I always go there and have fun with them. I love the idea of having a dog beach here, I don't see this often. Those cute doggies love the beach too :) A small bar by the end of the beach on your right hand side when you walk in. They serve all kind of drinks and some great bites. Plenty of space for beach ball, fun! Parking is FREE and plenty of space which I love. Always an empty spot for me when I go there. A short walk to the beach, supper convenience. The beach is only a block away from Lakeshore Dr. and less than 10 mins to downtown. This is my mini vacation beach & It gets me every time ...Love Montrose Beach. read more
15 years ago
11 years ago
I come here mostly to run, and take in the views of Montrose Harbor, and Lake Michigan. This area has free parking ; along with the option to do many other things that are in the area. Me being a runner I'm attracted to Cricket Hill, and also the Track field, which is in short distance from Montrose Beach. This area is one of the many peaceful places along the Lakefront where you can run, swim, tan, walk your dog, meditate, or read a book on one of the concrete benches along the outline of the beach. There is also an open area where you can play flag football, fly a kite, or throw your Frisbee. Located in between the beach and harbor there is a bike share pick up or drop off if you're interested in getting a bike ride in if you don't own a bike to ride. Enjoy! read more
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More info about Montrose Beach
200 W Montrose Harbor Dr
Chicago, IL 60613
Uptown
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https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/montrose-beach
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Review Highlights - Montrose Beach
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