Welcome to 12th Street Beach, a scenic gem on the edge of Chicago's bustling downtown. Known for its soft sands and clear views of Lake Michigan, this beach is not only a summer haven but also a vibrant part of the city's cultural tapestry. Each year, thousands flock here to escape the urban grind and indulge in the tranquility of lakeside leisure.
Did you know that 12th Street Beach is actually man-made? Constructed in the early 20th century, it was part of a larger project to beautify Chicago’s lakefront. Interestingly, this beach is also a crucial habitat for the endangered piping plover, a small bird that has found sanctuary among its sands.
The history of 12th Street Beach is deeply intertwined with that of Northerly Island, a peninsula intended as one of five interconnected islands by visionary planner Daniel Burnham in his 1909 Plan of Chicago. Although only Northerly Island was completed, it served various purposes over the decades including as a temporary airport! The beach itself became popular in the 1920s as Chicagoans sought leisure spaces within city limits.
For an optimal experience at 12th Street Beach, visit during weekday mornings when the crowds are thinner. Locals know that this time offers serene views and better chances for wildlife sightings. Also, don’t miss trying some authentic Mexican street food from the vendors who set up nearby – their tamales are a must-try!
Prepare to be amazed: every summer, 12th Street Beach becomes part of an extraordinary ecological event. The endangered piping plovers nest right on this urban beach! These tiny birds travel thousands of miles from their winter homes in the southern United States and Caribbean to raise their young here, amidst city noise and bustling crowds.
Just steps away from 12th Street Beach is the Adler Planetarium, America’s first planetarium and an architectural marvel offering expansive skyline views and stellar exhibits. Also nearby is Soldier Field, home to the Chicago Bears and a historic site itself with its classical columns standing since 1924.
