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This is where my dog and I spend our summers. Going early in the morning is the way to go to find free parking because it can get really crowded. Since its next door to the Montrose (human) beach it can be difficult to find parking. I love the self service dog wash station, access to doggy poop bags and lots of space. Some parts of the dog beach aren't totally fenced in so be careful with your dog escaping. I have seen quite a few take off into the parking lot; their owners running after them.
Dog Beach (aka the happiest place in the Chicago) is my dog's favorite place in the world. I love that it's fenced in for safety and has lots of room for all the doggies to spread out without needing to be on a leash. My golden loves chasing his ball in the water. The baths are a huge plus to get him less sandy before getting back into the car. The only reason I don't give it a 5 is because there was a good amount of trash on the beach and against the back wall. I also wish there were foot bath stations for humans to rinse our feet before going back to the cars. But for a free beach that dogs get to enjoy with their humans, I can't complain too much. I'm grateful that this beach exists!
When it hits 80s in the fall, you gotta head to the dog beach. On this occasion, I wasn't working so thought it would be a good day to head to Lake Michigan. I had this Aldi tent that would be perfect to curl up and read a book on the lake. I have taken my dog to this beach before. My dog doesn't like water or baths but he does like to people/dog watch. We gave a lot of side eyes here this morning. So dogs are roaming free and some take that as they don't need to supervise their dogs. Well you still need to watch your dogs. Anyhoo, lots of rules violations here. Several pet owners with food and treats. Someone selling tamales in the beach. This doesn't work well when some Dogs are food aggressive. Didn't feel bad when dogs ran as a pack up to the pet owners giving their dog treats. Drama continues... Being it was a weekday, I thought the usual dog park drama would be at a minimum. Negative. Woman brings 4 dogs to park. Woman cannot contain such dogs and decides to violently hit one of her dogs when they pee on someone's bag. Not going to go over well with pet lovers. Another woman starts screaming at dog beating woman and human fight ensues. Jace and I just side eye the whole situation. So it was a beautiful day, Jace got to see humans behaving emotionally. Ultimately, we had a nice early afternoon.
Went at sunset for a bit and the views were incredible! Still learning to trust my dog off leash so we walked along the water and beach since this was his first time. We absolutely loved it and will definitely be back! Lots of good doggies having fun too..perfect time to go.
Friendly pets get their own beach. It basically is a fenced off area from the rest of it. Montrose Dog Beach is pretty simple but very thoughtful. Good place to let dogs run around. There's some rules to follow to keep safe. Basically this is a part of the beach that's been fenced off from the rest of it. It's located on the north side of the regular one. This has fences on three sides. Other side is bordered by the lake. The fences have a few gaps in them. A few dogs will be able to get through so be careful. The fences also won't always go all the way to the lake, depending on the sand and water levels. Means you have to watch your dog. Those are the most important things to know before bringing your dog here. Has a pretty good location along a popular beach. It's the only part of the beach dogs are allowed so bring them here. The only requirement before using it is to get a permit.
I honestly think this is my dog's favorite place, ever, in the world. The Montrose Dog Beach is just the happiest place on earth. A land were dogs can run free and have the time of their lives! The area is fenced in and pretty huge! Lots of sand to lay down a towel (but do expect dogs to run by and make a mess of it with sand flying everywhere). I prefer to walk back and forth along the beach. 4 stars because: 1- the baths at the entrace/exit aren't free / there's no hose or sprinklers to wash off your feet; 2- the garbage system (read: poo bags) could be better; 3- like anywhere that dogs can roam free, some owners aren't the... best. I don't let those things stop me from going, but just make sure to bring some towels to wipe down your feet and your dog before hopping back in your car! Pay-to-park along the street or in the lot.
Pretty awesome dog beach! Its huge! They have a dog wash, a little interior park with dunes and a huge beach front. Little dog section as well. The beach is great but be aware of the others dogs some are super athletic and super huge as well. Mind crossing paths dogs playing catch and running top speed. But luckily there's plenty of room and great views too. Definitely check it out. It's fun to watch for non-dog owners too if you're in the area.
This is a great beach. This beach is dog friendly so it is great to take the dog to the beach here. Our dog first beach experience. Our dog Chloe seems excited to be at this park. There can be quite a lot of dog running around at once. Parkings can be hard to find during peak hours. There are both free and pay parking spots.
DOG BEACH? Are you kidding me? I was honestly expecting this to be a disappointing experience, but it is truly a beach with a bunch of dogs playing where they can go in the lake and everything! My dog had a great time, the parking situation is stellar, and there's even a dog wash station in front of your dog gets too dirty (it's $15 for ten minutes, which is a lot, but not more than other self service washes at pet stores). Will be coming back all summer long!
Montrose Dog Beach is literally heaven on earth for my doggy!! When we walk through the entrance and I take the leash off he gets SO freaking excited and just runs around loving life. We've been taking him here since he was a little pup scared of the water, and now we can't freaking get him OUT of the water! Being in the city, he really doesn't get much off-leash time, so finding Montrose Dog Beach has been a total game changer. Finding a dog friendly spot for your dog to swim in the water and play in the sand is just the best. The beach is fenced in so we don't have to worry about our pup getting too far. We've always had a good experience with the crowd there, but of course it can be hit or miss. The best you can do is watch your pup like a hawk because you never know who is (or isn't) watching theirs. Luckily, all my little dood wants to do is play fetch in the water, so he doesn't typically get caught up in the rowdiness on the sand. My dog has the time of his life at the beach -- so I can't give this place anything less than 5 stars. Oh -- and stop by Mutt Jackson bathing stations on your way out so you don't have to go home with a dirty pup. Win-win! Montrose Beach, we love ya.
Great, safe place to bring your dog! I went on a Thursday evening around 5 and there were about 20/25 dogs there with their owners. Even though the number of dogs seems high the beach was actually much bigger than I expected! Plenty of room for you and your pup to spread out. Lots of people brought blankets and beach setups but many others just played in the sand and water with the dogs. My dog Archie had never been to a beach before and I think he really enjoyed it. I will definitely be bringing him back for some more summer time fun!
Dog Beach: it's lots of fun, even though I don't like dogs. Dogs are great on the beach, a natural fit, and it makes me wonder why most beaches prohibit dogs. Seeing dogs run around and play happily makes me happy. It's a big, fenced in area with a double entrance gate for security. Lake Michigan is the usual cold-water paradise. It's way more interesting than a people beach.
On July 20, 2021 my life changed forever because I went to a DOG BEACH!!! And I cannot believe this was my first time considering I live with the great Bambino! The area was well fenced (which is important for me since Bambi usually can get through fences) and seemed well maintained! People and dogs alike were enjoying themselves in the water and sand and on the convenient rock bleacher-type things. The surrounding area was also really nice. Right at the entrance there are dog bathing stations as well, so convenient!
My black lab's favorite place in the world!!!! We have to go at least once every summer. It's an hour drive but totally worth it to see her happy. She loves to swim and play fetch and there's always dogs no matter what day of the week or time you go. The only time there wasn't many dogs here was when it was a bit rainy outside. If you come on a weekend, expect it to be filled with dogs! It's free to enter and they also have self-service dog baths. There's a small parking lot right outside that costed us about $4 for an hour, but there's a lot of street parking in the area and free spots. read more
4 months ago
Montrose Dog Beach is one of the best dog-friendly spots in Chicago. My dog absolutely loves coming here! The beach itself is spacious, allowing dogs plenty of room to run, swim, and play off-leash. We visited on Friday afternoon and even on busy days, it never felt overly crowded because there's so much space to spread out. The views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline are an added bonus! Lots of nearby and shaded street parking available nearby too. read more
We visited on a Saturday in the summer. We were in Chicago on a trip but we were able to walk right into the park to check it out. It was quite warm that day but it didn't stop the dogs! The beach is extensive with plenty of room for them to run, play, and swim. There is fencing that separates the dog beach from Montrose Beach. An outside area offers facilities to bathe your dog and allow them a more typical dog park experience with plant life. A suggestion is to offer permanent play structures inside the sand area. I wish I lived closer so that I could take my dog here! read more
This is where my dog and I spend our summers. Going early in the morning is the way to go to find free parking because it can get really crowded. Since its next door to the Montrose (human) beach it can be difficult to find parking. I love the self service dog wash station, access to doggy poop bags and lots of space. Some parts of the dog beach aren't totally fenced in so be careful with your dog escaping. I have seen quite a few take off into the parking lot; their owners running after them. read more
Dog Beach (aka the happiest place in the Chicago) is my dog's favorite place in the world. I love that it's fenced in for safety and has lots of room for all the doggies to spread out without needing to be on a leash. My golden loves chasing his ball in the water. The baths are a huge plus to get him less sandy before getting back into the car. The only reason I don't give it a 5 is because there was a good amount of trash on the beach and against the back wall. I also wish there were foot bath stations for humans to rinse our feet before going back to the cars. But for a free beach that dogs get to enjoy with their humans, I can't complain too much. I'm grateful that this beach exists! read more
2 years ago
When it hits 80s in the fall, you gotta head to the dog beach. On this occasion, I wasn't working so thought it would be a good day to head to Lake Michigan. I had this Aldi tent that would be perfect to curl up and read a book on the lake. I have taken my dog to this beach before. My dog doesn't like water or baths but he does like to people/dog watch. We gave a lot of side eyes here this morning. So dogs are roaming free and some take that as they don't need to supervise their dogs. Well you still need to watch your dogs. Anyhoo, lots of rules violations here. Several pet owners with food and treats. Someone selling tamales in the beach. This doesn't work well when some Dogs are food aggressive. Didn't feel bad when dogs ran as a pack up to the pet owners giving their dog treats. Drama continues... Being it was a weekday, I thought the usual dog park drama would be at a minimum. Negative. Woman brings 4 dogs to park. Woman cannot contain such dogs and decides to violently hit one of her dogs when they pee on someone's bag. Not going to go over well with pet lovers. Another woman starts screaming at dog beating woman and human fight ensues. Jace and I just side eye the whole situation. So it was a beautiful day, Jace got to see humans behaving emotionally. Ultimately, we had a nice early afternoon. read more
Went at sunset for a bit and the views were incredible! Still learning to trust my dog off leash so we walked along the water and beach since this was his first time. We absolutely loved it and will definitely be back! Lots of good doggies having fun too..perfect time to go. read more
Friendly pets get their own beach. It basically is a fenced off area from the rest of it. Montrose Dog Beach is pretty simple but very thoughtful. Good place to let dogs run around. There's some rules to follow to keep safe. Basically this is a part of the beach that's been fenced off from the rest of it. It's located on the north side of the regular one. This has fences on three sides. Other side is bordered by the lake. The fences have a few gaps in them. A few dogs will be able to get through so be careful. The fences also won't always go all the way to the lake, depending on the sand and water levels. Means you have to watch your dog. Those are the most important things to know before bringing your dog here. Has a pretty good location along a popular beach. It's the only part of the beach dogs are allowed so bring them here. The only requirement before using it is to get a permit. read more
9 months ago
I honestly think this is my dog's favorite place, ever, in the world. The Montrose Dog Beach is just the happiest place on earth. A land were dogs can run free and have the time of their lives! The area is fenced in and pretty huge! Lots of sand to lay down a towel (but do expect dogs to run by and make a mess of it with sand flying everywhere). I prefer to walk back and forth along the beach. 4 stars because: 1- the baths at the entrace/exit aren't free / there's no hose or sprinklers to wash off your feet; 2- the garbage system (read: poo bags) could be better; 3- like anywhere that dogs can roam free, some owners aren't the... best. I don't let those things stop me from going, but just make sure to bring some towels to wipe down your feet and your dog before hopping back in your car! Pay-to-park along the street or in the lot. read more
Pretty awesome dog beach! Its huge! They have a dog wash, a little interior park with dunes and a huge beach front. Little dog section as well. The beach is great but be aware of the others dogs some are super athletic and super huge as well. Mind crossing paths dogs playing catch and running top speed. But luckily there's plenty of room and great views too. Definitely check it out. It's fun to watch for non-dog owners too if you're in the area. read more
This is a great beach. This beach is dog friendly so it is great to take the dog to the beach here. Our dog first beach experience. Our dog Chloe seems excited to be at this park. There can be quite a lot of dog running around at once. Parkings can be hard to find during peak hours. There are both free and pay parking spots. read more
2 years ago
DOG BEACH? Are you kidding me? I was honestly expecting this to be a disappointing experience, but it is truly a beach with a bunch of dogs playing where they can go in the lake and everything! My dog had a great time, the parking situation is stellar, and there's even a dog wash station in front of your dog gets too dirty (it's $15 for ten minutes, which is a lot, but not more than other self service washes at pet stores). Will be coming back all summer long! read more
1 year ago
Montrose Dog Beach is literally heaven on earth for my doggy!! When we walk through the entrance and I take the leash off he gets SO freaking excited and just runs around loving life. We've been taking him here since he was a little pup scared of the water, and now we can't freaking get him OUT of the water! Being in the city, he really doesn't get much off-leash time, so finding Montrose Dog Beach has been a total game changer. Finding a dog friendly spot for your dog to swim in the water and play in the sand is just the best. The beach is fenced in so we don't have to worry about our pup getting too far. We've always had a good experience with the crowd there, but of course it can be hit or miss. The best you can do is watch your pup like a hawk because you never know who is (or isn't) watching theirs. Luckily, all my little dood wants to do is play fetch in the water, so he doesn't typically get caught up in the rowdiness on the sand. My dog has the time of his life at the beach -- so I can't give this place anything less than 5 stars. Oh -- and stop by Mutt Jackson bathing stations on your way out so you don't have to go home with a dirty pup. Win-win! Montrose Beach, we love ya. read more
Great, safe place to bring your dog! I went on a Thursday evening around 5 and there were about 20/25 dogs there with their owners. Even though the number of dogs seems high the beach was actually much bigger than I expected! Plenty of room for you and your pup to spread out. Lots of people brought blankets and beach setups but many others just played in the sand and water with the dogs. My dog Archie had never been to a beach before and I think he really enjoyed it. I will definitely be bringing him back for some more summer time fun! read more
Dog Beach: it's lots of fun, even though I don't like dogs. Dogs are great on the beach, a natural fit, and it makes me wonder why most beaches prohibit dogs. Seeing dogs run around and play happily makes me happy. It's a big, fenced in area with a double entrance gate for security. Lake Michigan is the usual cold-water paradise. It's way more interesting than a people beach. read more
5 years ago
On July 20, 2021 my life changed forever because I went to a DOG BEACH!!! And I cannot believe this was my first time considering I live with the great Bambino! The area was well fenced (which is important for me since Bambi usually can get through fences) and seemed well maintained! People and dogs alike were enjoying themselves in the water and sand and on the convenient rock bleacher-type things. The surrounding area was also really nice. Right at the entrance there are dog bathing stations as well, so convenient! read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
Fenced in, dog friendly beach. The beach slope is low, so even small dogs can enjoy the water without needing to swim. Free entrance. Beach area is large enough for humans to lay down a towel and enjoy the sun. There are large rocks in the back that make for a great place for keeping your stuff while in the water. There are pet washing stations to give dogs a bath! Highly recommend if your pup is really dirty, but if you can wait to clean them at home you should do so. It's $15 for 10 minutes! read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
We really enjoyed this beach. It's fun for humans and dogs alike. You can utilize dog showers (and dryers) afterward, for $15. It takes a card. The beach is mostly enclosed by a fence, but since it's along the shore it's not 100% covered. It's a good place to let dogs run and play in the water. Every owner and dog was friendly when we were there. You can choose to let your dog off leash or keep them leashed. My little guy is still learning and he's a puppy, so he was leashed for part and unleashed for other parts. Owners we met were great and enjoyed meeting my boy and sharing their dog-water with him. It was a really fun experience for me, my friend, and my dog. If we were locals we'd come here all the time. I would definitely suggest this beach. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Funnest place on Earth! To our pup at least. It's a great spot for dogs and dog-lovers to have fun. I have been twice and both times there has been plenty of space to set up camp and have some privacy. The first time we went, it was a little stinky of dog pee. The second time there was no smell at all and the dando and water looked and felt very clean. Perhaps it depends of the time of the year when you go read more
7 years ago
We LOVE this beach. First, just the fact that it is a beach is awesome. So many dog parks around here are just made of concrete and it can be so hard on their paws. Next, it's HUGE. Even when there are a lot of pups here, it takes a lot to make the beach too crowded. I'm sure it happens, but I've never felt too cramped (especially compared to the dog beach at Belmont!) I know everyone has their own experiences, but I have never experienced a difficult dog here. I think as long as you aware aware that taking your dog to a DFA is not like dropping them off at daycare, you are okay. Be alert and keep an eye on your dog. Another nice thing about this beach is that they have Mutt Jackson dog bath! I have actually never had a chance to use it, during the summer the lines are LONG and you need to wait in their little gated off area to have a turn. But the fact that they even have it as an option is a plus. Two things to note. First, when it rains, the entrance can get flooded. This year we've had a lot of rain and it was flooded for weeks. I have a small dog, so luckily I can pick him up and carry him over the north fence. For those with bigger dogs, prepare to get wet. Second, if you have a dog who jumps - I have seen dogs jump clear over the fence. It's not short by any means, but for the bigger, jumpier dogs, it's certainly possible. Anyways, I love this place. I am fully convinced a dog beach is one of the happiest places on earth. read more
12 years ago
Since my last review, there have been many improvements to this beach thanks to the volunteers that maintain this little piece of heaven. I'm so impressed!!! The fence at the south end of the beach now stretches further out into the water, plus the gate on the other end was repaired to make sure that our pups don't escape. New benches have been built to replace the old ones that were falling apart. I also love that there are organized clean up days. It's so clean... I love it! We are so lucky to have a beach where our dogs can be off leash and run their little hearts out. Recently, I had visitors from Dallas. Their kids saw all my pictures of my dog Maggie at Doggie Beach and chose this as one of their Must See destinations in Chicago. They were not disappointed! Needless to say, they think Chicago is a pretty cool city. Maggie and I come here as often as we can weather-permitting. I'm hoping the cold doesn't come too soon! We just can't get enough of Montrose Dog Beach! read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Montrose Dog Beach is awesome. My dog loves to run around and swim in the lake, and it's not a bad place to sit and chill out while your dog plays. The beach is fairly clean and poop bags are provided. It can get very crowded when the weather is nice, and sometimes difficult to locate your dog if they are social and like to run around! read more
8 years ago
I have been taking my dogs there for years. Great spot to take your fury friends. Like in any situation you need to keep an eye on your dog. Dogs will be dogs and some play nicer than others.. Mutt Jackson is there now which is a great dog washing self serve. The Dock is about three blocks south to grab lunch afterwards with your favorite four legged friend. Great gem of Chicago.. read more
13 years ago
3 years ago
4 years ago
I have been to some of the other dog beaches around Chicago, but this one was by far the biggest and the best one. I couldn't believe how many dogs are here on a nice day. The sand is soft and plenty of room to run around. If you have a dog, this is definitely the place to go. read more
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More info about Montrose Dog Beach
610 W Lawrence Ave
Chicago, IL 60640
Uptown
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http://mondog.org
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Ask the Community - Montrose Dog Beach
Does the beach close in the winter season? When does it close/open?
As long as we don’t get shut down for Covid restrictions, we’re open year round
Is it currently open?? If it is, is possible to boot up a hammock somewhere?
We’ve been back on since the end of February. There is no place to hang a hammock on the dog beach.
Does anyone know if they've fixed the fence on the right side (when facing the water)? There was a spot where it was very easy to hop over.
It's been fixed, but the height of the fence depends upon the tide and the wind on the sand. It varies.
Is there free parking? I plan on taking my puppy here in the summer.
Yep! There's a designated lot at the entrance to the dog beach and free street parking too.
I'm from out of town and my pup is only 5 months but loves water and other doggos, do people usually check that you have a tag?
not when I've been there (3 times)
Do you really need a tag for your dog there or is it just recommend ? Is there security actively walking around fining people for not having a tag?
Technically, yes, you need a DFA tag, but if you don’t live in the area, then a rabies tag will suffice. Occasionally, the park district or county will have someone out, but I don’t know if they have shown up recently.
Review Highlights - Montrose Dog Beach
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