Chicago Lakefront Trail

The Basics

Whether you visit the Lakefront Trail as part of marathon training or just to take in the fresh air, you get to experience one of Chicago's top attractions. Walkers take in skyline views, while bicyclists pedal an easy ride to top Chicago attractions such as Grant Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, and North Avenue Beach. Many bike and Segway tours use some portion of the trail.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Look for amenities such as hydration stations, restrooms, and concession stands along the trail.

• Bring a bike lock if you plan on leaving your bike to explore any attractions on foot.

• Car traffic crosses the trail at several points, especially on the downtown section, so use caution when approaching roadways.

• Wear reflective clothing and use bike safety lights if on the trail at night.

• Hourly bike rentals are available from several vendors on the trail's downtown section.

• The entire Lakefront Trail is paved and wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The Lakefront Trail starts at South Shore Cultural Center on East 71st Street and ends on West Ardmore Avenue near Kathy Osterman Beach. It can be accessed via multiple entry points along the way via foot, bike, or Segway. Look for street parking if driving to the trail.

When to Get There

The trail is open 365 days a year. It is more congested on weekends and on mild spring and fall days.

Take the Lakefront Trail to Navy Pier

The Lakefront Trail connects directly with Navy Pier, one of downtown Chicago's top attractions. Save on parking and walk or bike to this lakeside entertainment complex featuring a 15-story Ferris wheel, movie theater, shopping, restaurants, live music stages, and more. Kids love the Chicago Children’s Museum, and you can take a cruise on Lake Michigan departing from the South Dock.

Ways to explore

Whether you visit the Lakefront Trail to get your daily step count in or just to take in the fresh air and the Windy City sights, the popular route offers a great way to experience Chicago. Walkers are rewarded with prime skyline views, while cyclists can enjoy an easy ride to top Chicago attractions, including Grant Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. While it’s easy to visit the Lakefront Trail independently, you can also explore it on Chicago bike tours or Segway tours.

Accessibility

The Lakefront Trail is flat, level, and wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun protection, umbrella, water bottle, camera

What to wear

Wear weather-appropriate layers (or athletic gear) and good walking shoes, as the trail is open to the elements.

Not allowed

Using sharing scooters on the trail, walking the bike lane (or vice versa)

Amenities

Restrooms, food concessions and restaurants, proximity to major attractions

Address

The Lakefront Trail follows Chicago’s Lake Michigan shoreline from Edgewater Beach in Lincoln Park to Jackson Park in the South Shore neighborhood. There are numerous access points throughout the route, many of which are easily accessible by public transit or taxis.

Driving

While it’s possible to drive to the Lakefront Trail, parking may be limited or expensive depending on your route. Use taxis or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

Depending on your preferred access point, you can reach the Lakefront Trail via CTA “L” trains, buses, and Metra or South Shore Line commuter trains.

Best times to visit

Visit the Lakefront Trail in the midmorning to beat commuters and afternoon sightseers, or explore at sunset for postcard-worthy views.

Best days to visit

Generally, weekends are likely to be busier than weekdays at the Lakefront Trail, so come on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

Best months to visit

The most popular times to visit the Lakefront Trail are between Memorial Day in late May and Labor Day in early September. However, the spring and autumn shoulder seasons also offer good weather, plus fewer crowds.

Special events

A number of major Chicago events take place in parks that the Lakefront Trail runs through, including the Chicago Jazz Festival in Millennium Park (August) and Taste of Chicago in Grant Park (September).