Foster Beach, Chicago

(Of course I forgot to take a photo of the adults, haha. All I have is one selfie of Mitch and me. Will try to remember to snap a few pics of the parental fun next time, too! 😉)

A little known-fact about Chicago is that its 24 beaches are AMAZING. I was a little heartbroken about no longer living by the coast when we first moved here, but I swear that I sometimes forget we’re not on the ocean while the girls run around in the sand and splash in the water. (And that’s coming from someone who grew up going to the Jersey Shore!)

Lake Michigan is such a gift, and there’s no better place to enjoy beautiful sunrises and breathtaking full moons. The beach we go to the most is the one you see here—Foster Beach—because it’s somewhat secluded and easy with kids. (Parking + bathrooms. Need I say more?!) Grateful that we still have many, many more nights like this ahead of us this year!

(The girls’ red gingham dresses are from J.Crew Factory, btw!)

Parking Near Foster Beach, Chicago

Foster beach and the surrounding areas can get pretty busy, especially during peak season. And on July 4th? Whew. For this reason, I definitely recommend carpooling and taking some time to get familiar with the local parking guidelines. I’ve included the most important parking info below, straight from the official website.

According to the official website of the Chicago Park District, “Foster Beach is located at 5200 N. Lake Shore Drive (at Foster Avenue and Lake Michigan) in Lincoln Park. Amenities include a beach house with food concessions, bike rentals and restrooms. Distance swimming is from Center Tower to north end of beach, parallel to shore at boat line. Pay and display parking lot is available along with ADA accessible beach walk.”

Planning a trip? I know you’re going to love it! Still, here are some more things to keep in mind: Beach season runs from Memorial Day to Labor day. While the park is open everyday from 6 a.m to 11 p.m, it’s only open for swimming from 11 a.m to 7 p.m each day, during which time the lifeguard is on duty. Keep in mind that swimming is only allowed in designated areas, and the same can be said for grilling. Additional rules include: no smoking, no alcohol, no dogs, and no kiteboarding. See the full list of rules HERE.

If you have any additional questions, drop them below. Have a great trip! :)