Chicago Nature - Parks, River, Lake and Beaches

Often associated with its imposing urban skyline, Chicago hides a surprisingly natural side. The city is dotted with vast parks, offering green spaces ideal for idleness. Treasures such as Millennium Park and Grant Park offer green retreats from the hustle and bustle of the city. Not to mention the shores of Lake Michigan and its sandy beaches, hiking and biking trails, Chicago has something for everyone!

Chicago beaches

Most of Chicago's beaches are covered in sand, the mysterious "singing sand" that sings under your feet. 33 beaches share the shores of Lake Michigan, from the trendiest to the most family-friendly. All are free.

Grant Park

The largest park in downtown Chicago stretches for more than a mile along the shores of Lake Michigan. It is home to the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum Campus and the world's largest fountain, the Buckingham Fountain.

Chicago River

The Chicago River stretches 155 miles from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River since its course was reversed in the 19th century, largely for commercial reasons. In downtown Chicago, the river is lined by the River Walk and spanned by about 40 bridges.

Millennium Park

Chicago's newest city park. Slightly smaller than neighboring Grant Park, Millennium features monumental outdoor sculptures (Crown Fountain, Cloud Gate) and impressive buildings (Jay Pritzker Pavilion).

Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is the fifth largest lake in the world and the largest lake entirely within the United States. Chicago shares its 1,200 miles of shoreline and maintains approximately 30 beaches.

Chicago Riverwalk

Overlooking the Chicago River, the Riverwalk is entirely pedestrian. It's a great place to take pictures of the skyscrapers lit up at dusk. Numerous terraces.