Chicago boasts an impressive 18-mile-long stretch of paved trail for walking, jogging, rollerblading or biking that sits along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The trail extends from 5800 N Sheridan on the north side to 71st Street on the south. You'll pass through several eclectic Chicago neighborhoods including Edgewater, Upton, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, South Loop and Hyde Park. You'll spy some famous landmarks along the way including Buckingham Fountain, Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo, The Museum Campus and Solider Field. There are four parks that are accessible form the lakefront trail. Lincoln park is full of playgrounds for kids and is home to the free Lincoln Park Zoo. Grant Park, near the downtown loop host musical festivals throughout the summer months and offers gorgeous gardens which you can stroll or ride through. Burnham Park which is nearby Soldier Field has a model boat pond and a skate park area. And there will be no shortage of sand along the lakefront trail. Oak Street beach offer spectacular views of the city, North Avenue beach will be bustling with activity up closer to Lincoln Park. At each beach you can usually find concessions, restrooms and plenty of sun. Navy Pier is a great destination along the lakefront trail to either begin or end your hike. This Chicago landmark has been drawing crowds for over 100 years and is a must-see on any visit to Chicago. You'll find things to do like the Ferris wheel and Fun House, shopping, dining and beer gardens. This 3,300-foot-long pier is packed with hours of family fun. Come on out and play!
