Looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Michigan? Look no further than the vibrant city of Chicago, where beachside bliss awaits you. With a wide range of hotels conveniently located near the beach, your dream vacation is just a stone’s throw away. Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Chicago has it all. Get ready to unwind, relax, and indulge in the sheer bliss of staying in one of the Windy City’s beachside hotels.
Location of Chicago Beaches
Chicago is a city known for its stunning coastline along Lake Michigan, offering residents and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy beautiful sandy beaches. Three popular beaches in the city include North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach.
North Avenue Beach
Located on Lake Shore Drive, North Avenue Beach is a vibrant and bustling hotspot for beachgoers. With its picturesque views of the Chicago skyline, this beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, playing a game of beach volleyball, or taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, North Avenue Beach is a must-visit destination.
Oak Street Beach
Nestled between the prestigious Gold Coast neighborhood and Lake Michigan, Oak Street Beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Boasting crystal clear waters and sugar-like sand, this beach is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the scenery. With its proximity to downtown Chicago, Oak Street Beach offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty.
Montrose Beach
If you’re looking for a more tranquil and spacious beach experience, Montrose Beach is the perfect choice. Located on the city’s North Side, this beach offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. With its sandy shores, lush greenery, and stunning views of the lake, Montrose Beach provides a serene environment for relaxation and reconnecting with nature.
Benefits of Staying in a Hotel Near the Beach
When planning a trip to Chicago, staying in a hotel near the beach provides several advantages that enhance your overall experience. From convenience to scenic views and outdoor activities, here are some of the key benefits of choosing a beachside hotel.
Convenience
Staying in a hotel near the beach allows you to easily access the waterfront and enjoy all the amenities it has to offer. Whether you want to spend the day sunbathing, take a refreshing dip in the lake, or participate in beach activities, having a hotel nearby ensures that you can make the most of your time by the water without having to travel far.
Scenic Views
Hotels near the beach provide breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding natural beauty. Waking up to the sight of shimmering waters and colorful sunrises or enjoying a sunset from the comfort of your room can be a truly magical experience. The serene atmosphere and picturesque vistas create a sense of tranquility, allowing you to relax and unwind in a truly idyllic setting.
Outdoor Activities
Staying near the beach opens up exciting opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, or simply taking long walks along the shoreline, a beachside hotel puts you in the heart of all the action. With easy access to the water, you can indulge in your favorite beach pastimes and make unforgettable memories in the great outdoors.
Top Chicago Hotels Near the Beach
If you’re looking for the perfect hotel near the beach in Chicago, there are several exceptional options to choose from. These hotels not only offer unparalleled access to the waterfront but also provide luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities.
The Drake Hotel
Situated along the iconic Magnificent Mile, The Drake Hotel is a historic landmark that offers an elegant and sophisticated beachside retreat. With its classic architecture and timeless charm, this hotel provides a luxurious experience for guests. The Drake’s proximity to Oak Street Beach ensures that you are never far from the serenity of the lake while enjoying the comforts of a five-star hotel.
The Talbott Hotel
Located in the heart of the Gold Coast neighborhood, The Talbott Hotel combines timeless elegance with modern comfort. This boutique hotel offers a personalized and intimate experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful and refined stay near the beach. With Oak Street Beach just a short distance away, guests can easily indulge in a day of sun, sand, and relaxation.
The Gwen
Situated on the Magnificent Mile, The Gwen embodies contemporary style and urban sophistication. This sleek and stylish hotel boasts modern amenities and breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan. With its proximity to North Avenue Beach, guests can experience the best of both worlds – the vibrant energy of downtown Chicago and the tranquility of a beachside retreat.
Features and Amenities of Chicago Beachside Hotels
Hotels near the beach in Chicago offer a range of features and amenities that enhance your stay and make it a memorable experience. From private beach access to rooftop pools and beachfront dining, these hotels go above and beyond to provide an exceptional guest experience.
Private Beach Access
One of the standout features of Chicago beachside hotels is their private beach access. This means that guests can enjoy a secluded and exclusive beach experience without the crowds. Whether you prefer to bask in the sun with a good book, take a refreshing swim, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shoreline, having direct access to a private beach ensures a truly blissful and uninterrupted experience.
Rooftop Pools
In addition to the pristine shores of Lake Michigan, many beachside hotels in Chicago boast rooftop pools with panoramic views of the city skyline and the waterfront. These pools offer a luxurious oasis where guests can cool off, relax on comfortable loungers, and sip on refreshing cocktails while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The combination of a rooftop pool and beach access allows guests to enjoy the best of both worlds, whether they prefer a dip in the pool or a swim in the lake.
Beachfront Dining
Indulging in delicious cuisine while enjoying the stunning views of the lake is an experience that many Chicago beachside hotels offer. With beachfront dining options, guests can savor gourmet meals and sip on handcrafted cocktails while overlooking the shimmering waters. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a casual lunch with friends, beachfront dining adds a touch of elegance and relaxation to your stay near the beach.
The Drake Hotel
Among the top hotels near the beach in Chicago, The Drake Hotel stands out as an iconic and sophisticated choice. From its prime location to its luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining options, The Drake offers an unforgettable experience for guests.
Location
The Drake Hotel is ideally located along Chicago’s prestigious Magnificent Mile, offering guests easy access to the city’s top attractions, shopping, and dining. Situated just a short distance from Oak Street Beach, guests can take leisurely walks or enjoy a day of sun and surf without having to venture far.
Accommodations
The Drake Hotel offers a variety of tastefully designed guest rooms and suites, each exuding elegance and comfort. Whether you choose a classic room or opt for a more spacious suite, you’ll find yourself surrounded by luxurious amenities, plush bedding, and stunning views of the city or Lake Michigan. With meticulously appointed rooms, The Drake ensures that each guest enjoys a restful and rejuvenating stay.
Dining Options
Dining at The Drake Hotel is a culinary adventure where guests can savor a diverse range of flavors and experiences. From the legendary Cape Cod Room, known for its fresh seafood and classic dishes, to the elegant Palm Court, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea in a sophisticated setting, The Drake offers a dining experience that is second to none. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant and lounge, offering panoramic views of the city and lake, is the perfect spot for cocktails and light bites while enjoying the breathtaking sunset.
The Talbott Hotel
For those seeking a luxurious and intimate stay near the beach, The Talbott Hotel delivers an exceptional guest experience. From its prime location in the Gold Coast neighborhood to its luxurious rooms and fitness facilities, The Talbott Hotel offers a unique blend of elegance and comfort.
Location
Located in the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood, The Talbott Hotel provides guests with easy access to Oak Street Beach. A short walk from the hotel, guests can enjoy a day by the water or take in the stunning lakeside views. Additionally, the hotel’s proximity to the city’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations ensures that guests have plenty of options to explore and enjoy.
Luxurious Rooms
The Talbott Hotel features beautifully designed rooms and suites that exude sophistication and elegance. The spacious accommodations are adorned with luxurious furnishings, fine linens, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and indulgent stay. With impeccable attention to detail, The Talbott Hotel creates a home away from home ambiance that exceeds expectations.
Fitness Facilities
Staying fit and active is made easy at The Talbott Hotel. The hotel offers a state-of-the-art fitness center equipped with the latest exercise equipment to help guests stay on top of their fitness routine. From cardio machines to strength training equipment, guests have everything they need to maintain their workout regimen during their stay. After a rewarding workout, guests can relax and unwind in the hotel’s sauna or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment.
The Gwen
For a chic and stylish beachside experience, The Gwen is an unparalleled choice. With its prime location, stylish rooms, and rooftop lounge, The Gwen offers a truly memorable stay near the beach.
Location
Situated on the Magnificent Mile, The Gwen provides guests with easy access to North Avenue Beach. Overlooking the bustling city and the beautiful lakefront, the hotel allows guests to relax by the water or partake in the vibrant energy of downtown Chicago. With its central location, The Gwen offers the best of both worlds for guests looking to explore the beach and the city.
Stylish Rooms
The Gwen offers stylish and contemporary rooms that blend modern design with comfort. From deluxe guest rooms to spacious suites, each room is thoughtfully designed with chic furniture, luxurious linens, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking for a cozy retreat or a spacious oasis to relax and unwind after a day at the beach, The Gwen provides rooms that cater to every guest’s needs.
Rooftop Lounge
One of the standout features of The Gwen is its stunning rooftop lounge that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. The rooftop lounge is a perfect spot to unwind with a delicious cocktail, socialize with friends, or simply take in the panoramic vistas. With its stylish and relaxed ambiance, the rooftop lounge at The Gwen provides a memorable and enchanting experience for guests.
Transportation Options to the Beaches
Getting to the beaches in Chicago is convenient and hassle-free, thanks to a range of transportation options available to visitors. Whether you prefer public transportation, ride-sharing services, or renting a bicycle, these options allow you to easily access the waterfront and make the most of your beach experience.
Public Transportation
Chicago’s public transportation system offers a convenient way to reach the beaches. The CTA buses and trains provide easy access to the lakefront, with several bus routes and train stations located near popular beaches. Whether you’re staying near North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, or Montrose Beach, you can rely on public transportation to get you there quickly and efficiently.
Ride-Sharing Services
Another popular option for transportation in Chicago is ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. These services allow you to conveniently request a ride to the beach from your location. With the tap of a button on your smartphone, you can have a driver pick you up and drop you off at the beach of your choice, making it a hassle-free and comfortable way to travel.
Bicycle Rentals
Chicago is a bike-friendly city, and renting a bicycle is a popular option for exploring the lakefront and getting to the beaches. With numerous bike rental shops scattered throughout the city, you can easily rent a bike for the day and enjoy a scenic ride along the lakefront trail. Cycling to the beaches not only provides an active and enjoyable way to reach your destination but also allows you to take in the beautiful sights and sounds of Chicago’s shoreline.
Popular Beach Activities
The beaches in Chicago offer a multitude of activities to keep visitors entertained and make the most of their time by the water. From swimming to beach volleyball and diving, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Swimming
With its beautiful sandy shores and clear waters, swimming is a popular activity at Chicago’s beaches. Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely dip or get some exercise, the beaches provide a refreshing and invigorating place to cool off during the hot summer months. Lifeguards are stationed at designated areas to ensure the safety of swimmers, making it a worry-free activity for visitors of all ages.
Beach Volleyball
For those looking for a more active beach experience, beach volleyball is a favorite pastime at Chicago’s beaches. Many of the beaches have designated volleyball courts where visitors can join a game or bring their own equipment and start a friendly match with friends. The sandy terrain and the cool lake breeze create a perfect environment for beach volleyball enthusiasts to showcase their skills and have fun in the sun.
Diving
If you’re seeking a unique and exhilarating experience, diving in the waters of Lake Michigan is a must-try activity. The lake offers several dive sites, including shipwrecks and artificial reefs, providing divers with an opportunity to explore the underwater world and discover the hidden treasures beneath the surface. With its clear waters and diverse marine life, Lake Michigan offers a thrilling diving experience for both beginners and experienced divers.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the stunning beaches, Chicago offers a plethora of nearby attractions that are worth exploring. From iconic landmarks to beautiful parks and premier shopping destinations, there is no shortage of things to see and do in the Windy City.
Navy Pier
Located just a short distance from the beaches, Navy Pier is a must-visit attraction for both locals and tourists. This iconic landmark offers a wide range of entertainment options, including rides, games, restaurants, and shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the pier, catch a breathtaking view of the city from the Ferris wheel, or enjoy a fireworks display over the lake – Navy Pier has something for everyone to enjoy.
Millennium Park
Situated in the heart of downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is a breathtaking urban oasis that is not to be missed. From its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as “The Bean,” to its meticulously maintained gardens, outdoor art installations, and live performances at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park offers a unique blend of art, culture, and nature. Take a picnic, attend a concert, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of this urban escape.
Magnificent Mile
For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, the Magnificent Mile is a shopper’s paradise. This premier shopping destination boasts a wide range of high-end boutiques, department stores, luxury brands, and designer shops. From fashion to home decor and everything in between, the Magnificent Mile offers a delightful shopping experience that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning shoppers.
In conclusion, Chicago’s beaches offer a vibrant and diverse beach experience that is truly unique. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, serene beauty, or exciting outdoor activities, the beaches in Chicago have it all. By staying in a hotel near the beach, you can enhance your experience and enjoy the convenience, scenic views, and amenities that these hotels offer. Choose from luxurious options like The Drake Hotel, The Talbott Hotel, or The Gwen, each providing their own distinct charm and style. With transportation options readily available, you can easily access the beaches and engage in popular activities like swimming, beach volleyball, and diving. And when you’re not by the water, nearby attractions such as Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile offer countless opportunities to explore and immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Chicago. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a truly memorable beachside adventure in the Windy City.
