Lake Michigan Drive in Chicago, also known as Lake Shore Drive, is a picturesque route that runs alongside the shoreline of Lake Michigan. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the lake, beaches, parks, and the city skyline, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Windy City.
Water Cribs on Lake Michigan
One of the unique features of Lake Michigan Drive is the presence of water cribs, which are structures used to intake water from the lake for various purposes, including drinking water supply and industrial processes. These water cribs are typically located offshore and are connected to the mainland by pipelines, providing a vital resource for the city of Chicago and surrounding areas.
Best Routes for a Scenic Drive
The best route for a scenic drive around Lake Michigan from Chicago is to drive south to north along Lake Shore Drive. This 15-mile stretch offers breathtaking views of the lake, beaches, and the city skyline. Along the way, you’ll pass by several popular attractions and beaches, including Navy Pier, the Field Museum, and North Avenue Beach.
Popular Attractions to Visit
As you drive along Lake Michigan Drive, there are several must-visit attractions that you can explore:
- Navy Pier: A promenade with restaurants, theaters, tour boats, and land-based rides, including a Ferris wheel.
- The Museum Campus: Home to the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium, offering a variety of exhibits and shows.
- Buckingham Fountain: A large fountain that shoots water 150 feet into the air, with colored lights at night.
- Lincoln Park Zoo: A free-admission zoo with a variety of animals and a beautiful setting.
- North Avenue Beach: A popular beach with recreational activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and volleyball.
- Oak Street Beach: A beach with proximity to downtown and The Magnificent Mile, offering scenic views and waterfront dining.
Additional Information
In addition to the attractions, Lake Michigan Drive offers several other amenities and features:
- Lakefront Trail: An 18-mile multi-use trail that parallels Lake Shore Drive, suitable for biking, jogging, and walking.
- Beaches: Chicago has 26 miles of shoreline with over two dozen free beaches, offering various recreational activities and waterfront dining options.
- Waterfront Dining: Several beaches along Lake Michigan Drive offer waterfront dining options, including Castaways at North Avenue Beach and Whispers at Oak Street Beach.
Cost and Timings
- Lake Shore Drive: Free to drive on, open 24/7.
- Attractions: Varying costs and timings for each attraction, with some offering free admission or discounts for certain groups.
- Beaches: Free admission, open from dawn to dusk during the summer season.
Directory and Hours
- Navy Pier: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- The Museum Campus: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Buckingham Fountain: 301 S Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60605. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
- Lincoln Park Zoo: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- North Avenue Beach: 1600 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60613. Open daily from dawn to dusk.
- Oak Street Beach: 1000 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611. Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Rates and Value
- Lake Shore Drive: Free to drive on, offering scenic views and access to various attractions.
- Attractions: Varying costs, with some offering free admission or discounts for certain groups.
- Beaches: Free admission, offering recreational activities and waterfront dining options.
Phone Numbers
- Navy Pier: 312-595-PIER (7437)
- The Museum Campus: 312-322-0504
- Buckingham Fountain: 312-742-7529
- Lincoln Park Zoo: 312-742-2000
- North Avenue Beach: 312-742-7529
- Oak Street Beach: 312-742-7529