Chicago Lakefront Path: 36 Miles of Stunning Lake and Skyline Views

Oak Street & North Avenue Beach

You will pass by 2 large beaches on this route. I have only visited Oak Street thus far. There is a fabulous viewpoint of the city here. Oak Street offers big waves, clean sand, volleyball nets, and even a few palm trees. Where else can you find palm trees in the Midwest? This popular Gold coast beach is the hip spot for taking a break on a warm summer’s afternoon. Lots of great people watching and even better city views. You can visit the Chicago Park District website for more info on parks and beaches downtown.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier, located along scenic Lake Michigan, really stands out when riding along the path. You can see the iconic Ferris Wheel way in the distance. Stop by one of the many restaurants for a food break or take a ride on the Ferris Wheel.

I recommend popcorn from Garrett’s (they offer all sorts of delicious specialty flavors) and an iconic rainbow cone (5 slices of ice cream). You can also enjoy deep dish at Giordanos’ or enjoy comfort food at Harry Caray’s. The Centennial Ferris Wheel is an affordable way to take in spectacular views of the city and lake (much cheaper than the Skydeck at Willis Tower). I highly recommend the ride as a budget friendly activity.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Don’t miss out on your chance to visit one of the only remaining free zoos in the US. While not as grand as Brookfield (located in the Chicago suburbs), LPZ still offers an amazing setting with fantastic skyline views. This zoo is easily accessible from the path, making it the perfect place to take a North End break after completing over 20 miles.

It’s a great place to relax before embarking on the long trek back. If visiting during the winter months, be sure to check out Zoo Lights, an affordable event (Mon nights are free) where the zoo is lit up in over a million lights. I also loved watching the ice craving demonstrations. Grab a hot cocoa, bundle up, and enjoy a festive night in the city.

Worthwhile path detours

In addition to these top attractions, there are several other detours I recommend planning along the way. Some of these will require a bit more riding to get to, but will be worth the extra time. The John Hancock Observatory features an amazing view of the city. The Signature Room on the 95th (located in the John Hancock) offers fine dining with floor-ceiling window views.

Update 2024: Mike and I really enjoyed the city views from the iconic 103rd floor observatory of the Willis Tower. It’s the best place to take in city views and there is also an interesting history museum to browse through. Definitely worth the pricey admission fee in my opinion.

Make sure to plan a walk down the iconic Magnificent Mile, an upscale shopping district which runs for a mile along N. Michigan Avenue. You will find many famous landmarks such as the Tribune Tower, the John Hancock building, and the Drake Hotel.

Water Tower Place and 900 N. Michigan Ave. are both fantastic shopping malls. There are plenty of great restaurants and specialty shops here including: Rosebud on Rush, Giordano’s, Mike Ditka’s, Hershey’s, and Godiva.

How long will it take to ride the entire length?

We completed the entire path in about 5 hours. We took plenty of breaks and stopped for dozens of pictures. If you plan on dining, visiting a museum or 2, and taking a break shopping along the Mag Mile, then you should definitely expect a full day out.

Make sure to give yourself enough time, especially during the fall and winter months. I recommend starting your ride as early as possible to fully take advantage of everything the path has to offer without rushing.

Why you should add this path to your itinerary

I definitely recommend a ride or walk as a convenient way to sightsee and visit popular tourist attractions. Whether you are a tourist or local, you are bound to see the city in a new light. You can conveniently access many of the city’s top attractions all in a single day along this beautiful trail.

Not only will you leave with spectacular photos and memories, you will leave will a feeling of accomplishment after completing the 30+ mile workout. It’s definitely not a small feat and I know my hamstrings and quads got a fab workout! Luckily, the mesmerizing views will keep you motivated to continue on for at least a few miles. Every turn will have you looking for the next fantastic photo opportunity.

Don’t feel pressured to complete the entire path. Even if you can only go out a little bit, you will get to enjoy some nice scenery. Just start around Millennium for the best viewpoints.

Update 2024: This is one of the nicest urban bike paths I have ever experienced, and I have completed over 20 within the past few years. It definitely ranks in the top for me amongst every factor: scenery, ease of trail, and things to do and see along the way. What better way to spend the day: exercising, sightseeing, getting in some fresh air and vitamin D, and having fun at the same time?!

Tips for a great ride

*Wear a camelbak (water backpack). It’s a long ride! Having water on hand is more convenient, not to mention more affordable than stopping several times to purchase water. I didn’t notice many drinking fountains along the path. It’s always better to have you own bottle conveniently available; after-all, you want to be hydrated for any long bout of exercise.

*Check the weather forecast and plan your visit on a non-windy day. Riding a bike in the wind adds unnecessary resistance and stress and makes an easy, enjoyable workout that much harder.

*Bring with a few snacks. During the fall, there aren’t as many food stands open. There will be plenty of dining options at Navy Pier. I recommend eating breakfast beforehand, putting a few small snacks like granola bars or trail mix in your bag, and stopping to eat when you are finished with the ride.

*Bring with your camera. There are dozens of amazing photo opportunities along the way, especially of the skyline and lakefront. This is one bike path where you can’t afford to leave your camera at home. Bring with a small camera or phone which you can easily fit into a pocket or backpack.

Location details

Starting Address: 5800 North

Ending Address: E. 71st Street

Attraction Address & Additional Info

• The Field Museum: 1400 S. Lakeshore Drive
• The Shedd Aquarium: 1200 S. Lakeshore Drive
• Adler Planetarium: 1300 S. Lakeshore Drive
• Soldier Field: 1410 Museum Campus Drive
• Grant Park: 337 E. Randolph St.
• Buckingham Fountain: 301 South Columbus Dr.
• Millennium Park: 201 E. Randolph St.
• Oak Street Beach: 1000 N. Lakeshore Dr. Chicago, & North Ave. Beach (W. Lasalle Dr.)
• Navy Pier: 600 E. Grand Ave.
• Lincoln Park Zoo: 2001 N. Clark St.
• John Hancock: 875 N. Michigan Ave.
• Willis Tower: 233 S. Wacker Dr.
• Magnificent Mile: N. Michigan Avenue