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Calumet Beach is a serene and lesser-known beach located on the southeastern shore of Lake Michigan in Chicago. Unlike the more crowded beaches in the downtown area, Calumet Beach offers visitors a peaceful retreat with scenic views of the lake, nearby parks, and the city’s skyline. This beach is part of the larger Calumet area and provides a great escape for both locals and tourists looking for a quiet spot to relax by the water. Whether you want to take a swim, have a picnic, or enjoy a quiet walk along the shoreline, Calumet Beach has something for everyone.
Calumet Beach is located in the South Side of Chicago, making it slightly more secluded than other beaches in the city. However, it is still easily accessible by public transportation, car, and bike.
By Car: To reach Calumet Beach by car, you can take the South Lake Shore Drive and exit at 95th Street. From there, follow local roads that will lead you toward the beach. There is parking available in nearby lots, and street parking can be found around the area. As the beach is less crowded than others, parking spaces are often easier to find compared to popular destinations like Oak Street Beach or North Avenue Beach.
By Public Transportation: Chicago's CTA bus system offers routes that can take you close to Calumet Beach. The #95 bus route travels along 95th Street, which is close to the beach entrance. The nearest CTA train station is the Red Line's “95th/Dan Ryan” station, which is about a 10-minute drive from the beach. From here, you can take a bus or taxi to the beach. Though it may take a bit longer than driving, public transportation is a viable option for getting to Calumet Beach.
By Bicycle: If you're traveling by bike, Calumet Beach can be accessed via the Calumet River Trail or other nearby bike paths. The bike routes in the area are well-maintained, and biking to the beach is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise.
Calumet Beach, like other parts of Chicago, experiences four distinct seasons, which affects the beach’s environment throughout the year. Here’s what you can expect:
Summer (June to August): Summer is the most popular time to visit Calumet Beach, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The beach comes alive with people enjoying the lake and sunbathing on the sand. The cool lake breeze makes it a perfect place to spend the day, even on the warmest summer afternoons.
Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C), and the beach becomes quieter. The trees in the surrounding parks begin to change color, offering beautiful views for visitors looking for a peaceful walk or a relaxing day by the lake.
Winter (December to February): During the winter months, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snow is not uncommon. The beach becomes more tranquil, and the lakefront transforms into a quiet, wintry landscape. While swimming is not an option in the cold, the beach is still an excellent place for a brisk walk or for winter photography.
Spring (March to May): Spring brings milder temperatures, ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). The area around Calumet Beach starts to bloom with flowers, and it’s a great time to take a walk along the beach or enjoy the outdoors as the weather gradually warms up. Early spring can still be chilly, but the beach begins to see more visitors as temperatures rise.
Calumet Beach is open year-round, with no entry fees, allowing people to enjoy the beach at their convenience. While lifeguards are typically on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day, outside of those months, there are no lifeguards present, so visitors should take extra care if they plan to swim. The beach is open to the public at all hours, although it’s best to visit during daylight hours for safety reasons, especially if you're planning to swim or relax on the beach. As with most Chicago beaches, facilities like restrooms and food vendors may not be available during the off-season, but the beach itself remains open for use.
Calumet Beach is famous for its peaceful atmosphere and its more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path vibe compared to Chicago’s other bustling beaches. Some of the reasons people visit Calumet Beach include:
Calumet Beach is a public space, so there are no entry fees to visit. The beach is open to everyone and can be visited at any time, though services like lifeguards are only available during the summer season. Visitors can enjoy the beach for free, whether they are swimming, walking along the shore, or simply relaxing on the sand. If you're looking to rent beach equipment such as chairs or umbrellas, you may need to bring your own as rentals may not be available on-site during off-peak times.
There are nearby parking lots and street parking options, though it’s often easier to find a space here than at more popular beaches like Oak Street Beach or North Avenue Beach. If you're visiting during the summer, it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.
Calumet Beach is situated in an area that has seen significant industrial and urban development over the years. Historically, the Calumet region was once a major industrial hub with steel mills and other factories, but in recent decades, efforts have been made to reclaim the area for recreational use. The beach itself is part of the city’s broader plan to revitalize the South Side and improve public access to the lakefront.
The beach and surrounding parkland have been designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. Though the area may not feature the grand architecture or modern buildings that some other Chicago beaches are known for, Calumet Beach’s natural beauty, combined with the quiet atmosphere, makes it a lovely place to visit. The parkland around the beach includes trails for walking, biking, and birdwatching, which adds to the overall appeal of the area.
There are many activities to enjoy at Calumet Beach, especially for those who appreciate nature and outdoor recreation. Some of the most popular things to do include:
