Lakefront Trail Maintenance Alert: Over the next several months, repairs will be made throughout the trail, one section at a time. Work will start on the south end and move north. Signage will be placed ahead of the construction site. Please be alert and safe, and avoid these active construction work zones. Learn more: Lakefront Trail Maintenance. Posted 9/15/26
Chicago Park District successfully opened all beaches, and outdoor and indoor pools in 2026!
20 outdoor neighborhood pools and 23 beaches are open through Labor Day, September 7; Fall indoor pools open September 8 & pool programs begin the week of September 21
Chicago, IL- The Chicago Park District announces the official end of the summer swim season and closes its 22 lakefront public beaches, 20 outdoor pools and 1 inland beach for swimming on Labor Day, September 7, 2026, following a successful summer season featuring over 100 days of water access and the hiring of more than 700 lifeguards.
“Chicago’s lakefront is absolutely unmatched! We are proud to be stewards of 26 spectacular miles of water access with breathtaking, jaw-dropping views of our iconic city skyline and gorgeous parkland for friends and family to enjoy Summertime in Chicago,” said Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO, Carlos Ramirez-Rosa. “We are incredibly proud of our lifeguard team for their dedication and for stepping up to ensure our beaches remain welcoming for everyone.”
Summer Success Highlights
• Over 100 Days of Beach Access: Starting on Memorial Day weekend, residents and tourists alike enjoyed access to 22 lakefront beaches, spanning 26 miles along Lake Michigan.
• More than 700 Lifeguards: The Park District successfully hired a seasonal workforce of more than 700 lifeguards strong to supervise beaches and staff all neighborhood pools for the summer. For two consecutive years, outdoor pools remained open seven-days a week, and 20 pools stayed open for an extended period due to the overwhelming response from applicants after the start of the academic year.
• Neighborhood Pools: Indoor and outdoor neighborhood pools provided continuous access in neighborhoods citywide during this summer's extreme heat weather events.
After Labor Day Schedule
• Beach Closures: The swim season at Chicago's beaches will wrap up at 7 p.m. on September 7, 2026, and red warning flags will be posted by lifeguards at the beach and on the Park District website. Lifeguards will no longer be on duty. Swimming is strongly discouraged without lifeguards present.
• Alternative Relief for the Heat: More than 200 water spray features at park citywide will remain open through the end of September. Indoor pools open for lap and open swim on September 8, with regular fall programs starting the week of September 21.
The 2027 Beach season will begin Friday, May 28, 2027. For details, visit the Beaches webpage.