Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan, Chicago's inland sea

Chicago stretches along Lake Michigan, an immense expanse of water that gives the city a seaside air. Its shores, laid out as promenades and beaches, are one of the great pleasures of Chicagoans. The Chicago audio-guided tour stops here to grasp the deep link between the metropolis and this lake that shaped its history and landscape.

One of the five Great Lakes

Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes of North America, and the only one located entirely within the United States. Its size is such that you lose sight of the opposite shores, as if facing a sea. Chicago developed on its south-western shore, and the lake was long an essential trade route, before becoming a tremendous leisure area.

What to see

Along the lake, the Lakefront Trail, a walking and cycling path, runs for kilometres between beaches, parks and marinas. You enjoy spectacular views of the skyline from the shores, especially between spring and autumn. It is the ideal place to breathe, run or swim, in the middle of the city yet facing the horizon.

Practical information

Lake Michigan borders the entire east of Chicago; its shores and the Lakefront Trail are reachable on foot from the centre, a few hundred metres from Millennium Park. Access to the promenades and beaches is free; the best time to enjoy them is generally from spring to autumn, the climate being harsh in winter.

Is Lake Michigan one of the Great Lakes?

Yes, it is one of the five Great Lakes of North America, and the only one entirely within the United States; Chicago stretches along its south-western shore.

What is there to do by Lake Michigan in Chicago?

Walk or cycle on the Lakefront Trail, enjoy the beaches and parks, and admire the skyline from the shores, especially from spring to autumn.