When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Ohio Street Beach
Why Ohio Street Beach is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ohio Street Beach, located in Chicago's vibrant Streeterville neighborhood, offers a unique urban beach experience just a short 10-minute walk from the Magnificent Mile. Set against an impressive backdrop of downtown skyscrapers and Lake Michigan's calm waters, the beach blends natural beauty with city energy, making it an exceptional gathering spot for friends and families alike. Its north-facing orientation provides a sheltered environment with gentle waves, ideal for activities like swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. The shallow waters, reaching only about five feet deep, mimic the feel of a large swimming pool, providing a safe and inviting space for swimmers of all skill levels. Facilities such as restrooms, bike rentals, and changing rooms contribute to a comfortable visit, while Caffe Olivia, located adjacent to the beach, offers Mediterranean dishes and refreshing cocktails in a scenic open-air setting perfect for sunset views. The beach also features a designated swimming area protected by a break wall, ensuring safety with lifeguard supervision during summer hours. Its proximity to the Lakefront Trail offers easy access for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, enhancing the overall appeal as a lively urban oasis.
Here's what people think of Ohio Street Beach
As of recent, Ohio Street Beach holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1299 reviews.
Reviews of Ohio Street Beach are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its 4.6-star rating from nearly 1,300 user evaluations. Visitors consistently praise its exceptional location within downtown Chicago, noting the stunning juxtaposition of sandy beach and city skyline, which creates a photogenic and relaxing atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the beach's cleanliness, calm waters, and excellent facilities, including restroom availability and convenient bike rentals. The nearby Caffe Olivia receives commendations for its tasty Mediterranean menu and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot to unwind after a swim or day in the sun. Additionally, swimming enthusiasts appreciate the well-maintained swim areas marked by buoys and the presence of lifeguards that ensure safety, with many mentioning the beach as one of the best urban spots for open water swimming training and community meetups. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional overcrowding during peak times and limited parking options, which can affect accessibility. A few users mention that the beach hours could be extended to maximize enjoyment. Despite these minor drawbacks, the consensus among visitors is that Ohio Street Beach is a well-loved, safe, and family-friendly location that balances natural charm with urban convenience, making it a top choice for both locals and tourists looking for a refreshing city escape.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jackson Riley
Ohio Street Beach is such a fun spot and has a great atmosphere. Even when it’s crowded, there’s still plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the day. The view of the skyline is gorgeous, and it really adds to the whole experience of being by the water. There are lifeguards on duty, restrooms up front for changing, and even ice cream available if you’re craving a treat. The vibe was amazing — people soaking up the sun, playing music, and just enjoying summer to the fullest. It’s the perfect place to relax, get a tan, and take in both the lake and the city views.
Ethan Paige
Great beach near Navy Pier. Impressive views of the city and the water. The fresh water is clean and refreshing. $66 will get you two chairs and an umbrella, but before you complain about it, please know that you can bring your own! Bring a packed picnic cooler, some shades, sunblock, flip flops, and a towel, and you are RTG! Ice cream carts jingle past now and then. Just delightful!
JETS
A beach in the middle of the city with a skyline view! Runners, joggers, fishers, dog walkers, families, beach goers, tourists, all are here and it’s beautiful. Use the underground tunnels to cross the busy street to get back into the city!
Noelle DeVeris
Ohio Street Beach is always a vibe. No matter the time of day, my friend and I frequently visit this beach just for the sky line. It’s apart of the lakefront trail for all the movers and shakers. There’s the actual beach for the one who want to be in the sand. Also, just east of the beach there’s a grassy area with benches. There’s also a ledge for sitting if that’s your vibe. I won’t give away my spot in the photos but ifykyk
Laura Bowers
Went on the hottest day ever. We didn't want to go in the water but it was so tempting. Nice spot.
How to reach Ohio Street Beach
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Why Ohio Street Beach may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ohio Street Beach with your friends? Ohio Street Beach stands out as an exceptional urban oasis for gathering with friends, blending the invigorating atmosphere of a lakeside retreat with stunning views of Chicago’s iconic skyline. Located just a 10-minute walk from the Magnificent Mile and Navy Pier, this beach offers easy accessibility while giving visitors a perfect mix of natural beauty and urban energy. Whether you seek relaxation on the sandy shore or an active day on the water, Ohio Street Beach accommodates various moods, making it ideal for groups who enjoy diverse experiences. Its uniquely north-facing shoreline shields swimmers from rough waves and offers calm waters, perfect for both leisurely swims and spirited open water races. With well-maintained facilities like restrooms, bike rentals, and nearby cafes such as Caffe Olivia providing Mediterranean fare and cocktails, friends can effortlessly transition between activities and social moments. The vibrant backdrop of skyscrapers coupled with the serene lakefront charm makes it an Instagram-worthy destination and a memorable venue to create shared stories. Your group will relish the combination of convenience, recreational options, and breathtaking views, securing Ohio Street Beach as an unmatched venue to connect, unwind, and celebrate friendship.
What activities can you enjoy at Ohio Street Beach with your group? Ohio Street Beach is a hub of versatile activities perfect for groups looking to have fun and stay active together. The calm waters framed by the shoreline’s unique curve invite swimming enthusiasts of all skill levels, supported by lifeguards on duty daily from 11am to 7pm for safety and peace of mind. Beyond swimming, the beach offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities that allow groups to explore Lake Michigan’s scenic beauty surrounded by Chicago’s skyline. On the sand, sunbathing is a favorite pastime as visitors soak up warm rays while enjoying spectacular views of the city’s architectural marvels. The adjacent Lakefront Trail provides biking options, making it great for a group cycle along the lake with bike rentals easily accessible near the beach. For those who prefer to stay shoreside, nearby parks such as Jane Addams Memorial Park and Milton Lee Olive Park offer expansive green spaces for picnics, frisbee games, or simply lounging in the shade. The variety of activities ensures every member of the group can find something enjoyable, from tranquil moments to exhilarating water sports without leaving the vicinity.
Why is Ohio Street Beach perfect for group meetups and social events? Ohio Street Beach’s thoughtful facilities and prime location make it exceptionally well-suited for group meetups and social events. Large groups benefit from the availability of amenities such as clean restrooms, locker and changing facilities, umbrella and chair rentals, and lifeguard presence, which collectively enhance comfort and convenience throughout the day. The beach’s proximity to public transport options, including the Red Line at Grand and various bus routes, reduces parking hassles, encouraging easy arrival and departure for everyone in your group. The adjoining Caffe Olivia offers an inviting open-air setting to enjoy Mediterranean dishes and cocktails, a perfect winding down spot after an active beach day or an ideal place to gather for a sunset celebration. Additionally, Ohio Street Beach’s sheltered waters and its adjacency to parks make it a favorite venue for city swimming events and family-friendly open water fun swims, fostering a lively community atmosphere that your group can tap into or simply enjoy as spectators. The scenic interplay of skyscrapers and water creates an inspiring ambiance, ideal for birthday parties, casual reunions, or team outings where memories can be captured against a breathtaking urban backdrop.
What should you know about access and convenience at Ohio Street Beach? Access and convenience are among the strongest reasons to choose Ohio Street Beach for your next meetup. Situated in the heart of Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood, the beach is easily reached on foot from major city attractions and by public transit, notably the Red Line (Grand station) and frequent bus routes, making group coordination straightforward. While street parking is limited due to the busy urban area, the efficient public transport network and bike rentals offered nearby provide sustainable and low-stress ways to arrive. The beach features an ADA-accessible beachwalk, ensuring inclusivity for all group members, including those with mobility challenges. Facilities such as restrooms, changing rooms, and shower stations bring added comfort, while rental services for umbrellas and chairs provide convenience for longer stay durations. With lifeguards on duty daily, safety remains a priority, a key factor when hosting meetups with kids or less experienced swimmers. The surroundings, including adjacent parks with shade and grassy areas, complement the beach experience by offering spots for picnics or games, extending the day’s activities beyond just sun and water.
How do the nearby amenities enhance the group experience at Ohio Street Beach? The exceptional nearby amenities significantly elevate the group experience at Ohio Street Beach, making it much more than just a place to swim or sunbathe. Caffe Olivia, located close to the beach, adds a culinary dimension to your outing with a menu featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes and refreshing cocktails served in an open-air setting. This makes it a stellar after-beach destination for groups to relax, share meals, and enjoy scenic views as the sun sets over the lake, enriching social bonds through shared dining experiences. For group members seeking a quick bite or casual refreshment, beachside concessions and a hotdog stand offer convenient options without needing to leave the area. Additionally, bike rentals located nearby allow for cycling along the famous Lakefront Trail, perfect for group adventures beyond the beach itself. Public art installations such as “House” by Sara FitzSimonds add cultural interest, creating a unique atmosphere that encourages exploration and conversation. With these amenities close at hand, Ohio Street Beach facilitates a full day of enjoyment, combining natural beauty, recreation, and hospitality tailored to group preferences and needs.