The City of Chicago and the Chicago Park District on Wednesday announced 22 beaches will open this Friday, May 28th for the 2021 season. The return of beach season is another step forward with Open Chicago, the Mayor’s initiative to safely and fully reopen the city. This Friday will mark the first time Chicago beaches have opened for public use since September 2, 2019, due to COVID-19 health and safety precautions. The 2021 beach season runs through Monday, September 6, 2021. Juneway, Roger, Howard, and Fargo beaches remain closed to the public due to high lake levels and erosion. Patrons are asked to observe the following beach rules:  

• Obey lifeguards and swim only when lifeguards are present.  

• No glass, alcohol, or smoking on the beach.  

• Properly dispose of food, diapers, and other refuse. Do not feed birds. Dogs are only allowed in designated dog areas.  

• Please put swim diapers on small children.  

• Grilling is only allowed in designated areas and coals should be disposed of in the red-hot metal containers.

• Keep accessible beach walks clear. No bicycling, skateboarding, or rollerblading is permitted in these areas.

• Access to the Lake Michigan Water Trail for sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and other non-motorized board or paddle sports is allowed at 12th Street Beach. For more information, go to the rules page and download information on Lake Michigan water trails.  

• Kiteboarding is not permitted at 12th Street Beach; kiteboarding is ONLY permitted at Montrose Beach.  

• Swimming is permitted and lifeguards are on duty at all beaches from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., unless otherwise posted. 

Admission to Chicago’s beaches is free. For a list of locations or for more information, visit the Park District website at chicagoparkdistrict.com or call the Beaches and Pools Unit at 773-363-2225.