Chicago's Best Beaches for Baby

Originally published on 5/23/2019 for NPN

Having a little one shouldn’t stop you from getting out and soaking up the rays. Here’s a roundup of some of the best sandlots around the city that are perfect for baby’s first trip to the beach. Stock your diaper bag with swim diapers and sunscreen, and get ready to introduce baby to Lake Michigan!

Great for South Siders Margaret T. Burroughs (31st Street) Beach 3100 S. Lake Shore Drive Burroughs Beach stretches from 31st Street to 26th Street and offers amazing skyline views for adults and a newly renovated and ADA accessible playground for kiddies of all ability levels. Yummy concessions, easy and affordable parking, and a “green roof” for family picnics make this beach an easy choice for South Siders.

Great for North Siders Loyola/Leone Beach Touhy Avenue and Lake Michigan Loyola/Leone Beach is perfect for North Side dwellers and active families alike. Chicago’s largest beach features a 2/3-mile walking trail along the beautiful beach and Lake Michigan, making this the perfect beach for stroller walks and jogs. In addition to a playground, there is also a softball field and basketball court available for older siblings.

Great for families with dogs Foster Avenue Beach 5200 N. Lake Shore Drive (Foster Avenue and Lake Michigan) Parent to a baby and a dog baby? Head over to Foster Avenue Beach and get the best of both worlds. Foster Beach has its own dog beach at the northeast end and outdoor showers so that your fam can clean off after a day in the sand and sun.

Great for water adventuring babies Kathy Osterman Beach 4600 N. Lake Shore Drive Osterman Beach is located in the northernmost tip of Lincoln Park and is perfect for families that want to explore the water: it is known for having shallower water than other beaches.

Great for water-shy babies 63rd Street Beach 6300 S. Lake Shore Drive. (E. Hayes Drive at Lake Michigan) Baby not quite ready to frolic in Lake Michigan? No worries! 63rd Street Beach has interactive water fountains that are perfect for letting your little one enjoy the water without swimming in the lake.

Great for a day of relaxing 12th Street Beach 12th Street at Lake Michigan on Northerly Island  If a less crowded day at the beach is what you’re in search of, 12th Street Beach is the perfect spot for you. Nestled just south of Adler Planetarium, this beach feels like a private sandy shore just for you and your family. Concessions and restrooms are nearby and you can check out the nearby museums when you need a break from the sun.