Summer dates on the lakefront
Key facts
| Lakefront Trail | 18-mile paved path |
|---|---|
| Runs from | Ardmore Street to 71st Street |
| Bikes | Divvy bikes can be used on the trail |
| Stops along the way | Montrose Beach, North Avenue Beach, Navy Pier, Promontory Point |
When the weather turns warm, Chicago heads to the lake. The lakefront is free and has something for every kind of date. Here are three ways to enjoy it.
Ride a stretch of the Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile paved path along Lake Michigan, from Ardmore Street to 71st Street. Divvy bikes are allowed, so you do not need your own. Pick a short section and stop wherever you like.
Source: Choose Chicago: Chicago's Lakefront Trail, checked 8 November 2026
An evening at Montrose Beach
Montrose Beach is a park and beach on the trail, with The Dock at Montrose Beach nearby. Come for a swim or a sunset, then get something to eat.
Source: Choose Chicago: Chicago's Lakefront Trail, checked 8 November 2026
Promontory Point and 31st Street Harbor
On the South Side, Promontory Point and 31st Street Harbor are both parks along the trail. They are quieter than the downtown beaches and good for a long chat.
Source: Choose Chicago: Chicago's Lakefront Trail, checked 8 November 2026
Questions
Do we need our own bikes?
No. Divvy bikes can be used on the Lakefront Trail.
Which part of the lakefront is quietest?
The far north and south stretches tend to be calmer than the beaches near downtown.
What if it rains?
Have a backup indoors, like the Chicago Cultural Center, which is free and open daily.
Read next
Our sister site Smooch covers dating across the US. WhichDating, our sister review site, has a guide to dating in Chicago.