Science & Nature

Chicago’s Beach Season Kicks Off Friday, Outdoor Pools Opening June 19

Chicago beach season is here, even if the heat is still running in your home.

Friday marks the unofficial start to summer, with the city’s lakefront beaches opening for the Memorial Day holiday weekend through Labor Day. The Chicago Park District’s outdoor pools will open June 19.

Here’s what to know before heading out the door.

Beaches are open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., but swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Unlike certain suburbs, Chicago’s beaches are free to all comers, but parking isn’t. New gates and license plate readers have been installed at several parking lots up and down the lakefront to make sure people pay the fee.

Chicago uses a color-coded flag system to indicate whether swimming is allowed, based on weather conditions and water quality. Even if the water appears calm, bacteria levels could be dangerous.

— Green: Swimming is permitted.

— Yellow: Swimming is permitted, but caution is advised. Either the weather conditions are unpredictable or bacteria levels in the water are elevated.

— Red: Swimming is not permitted. The weather or water quality is dangerous.

The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazards alert effective through Saturday afternoon, with waves of 3 to 6 feet expected.

Additional guidelines:

— Dogs aren’t allowed on beaches except in designated areas.

— Surfing is only allowed at Montrose Beach and 57th Street Beach.

— Grill in designated areas only and dispose of coals in marked metal containers.

Concessionaires are opening for the season as well, from beach umbrella rentals to souvenir retailers to beachfront bars and restaurants. 

Contact Patty Wetli: [email protected]

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