As a very extra dog mama, there is nothing I would not do to make my Gypsy happy (or sleep peacefully at night). "Anything" includes driving an hour away from home to take her to the beach at least one time a week (usually on the weekends). Right off of Lake Shore Drive, our favorite place to spend time with our dog is Montrose Dog Beach. About a mile down, there is also a people only beach, restaurants, sand volleyball courts as well as restrooms. But I am here to tell you that if you have a well behave furball at home, you should venture to the windy city and let your animal let loose.
You can find this beach at 4400 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. This fabulous dog friendly beach is open 365 days a year with the Chicago Park District hours. The last time we visited I believe the sign mentioned they close at 11pm. During the colder months there is plenty of parking right outside of the beach. If you are coming during the summer months then I would either plan coming early to find good parking or plan on walking a bit before the beach.
The dog friendly part of the beach is huge. There are many dogs who love to play in the water and others who just stick to the stand. Gypsy's favorite thing to do is fetch a tennis ball as far as Esteban can throw it. She will jump over waves, stand on her hind legs and swim for hours. She loves this place so much that by the time she gets in the car she falls asleep for most of the ride home.
The beach is pretty clean as well. We typically bring our blanket and towels and stretch them out where we put our cooler and backpacks. If you are planning on spending an entire day here, I would recommend bringing snacks and water for your pup. There are food vendors that walk around the beaches and set up outside of the park, but most of this is for the humans. But remember, this is a DOG beach. Pay attention to what you put on the floor. I have seen dogs eat spicy food or pee on others blankets if they don't watch their environments. It is important to be aware of your surroundings here to keep yourself as well as your pets safe.
2 Leos Fact: The first time Esteban took me to the city, we shared a fruit salad at the dog beach. Although we didn't have a puppy of our own, we sat on the concrete steps above the park to watch and dream about the day we would have our own dog.
We've been to the dog beach in the morning, the middle of the day as well as sunset. I have never been disappointed by this place. It is important to use your common sense though and keep an eye on your dog at all times. The beach can get crowded so please stay safe and don't bring aggressive dogs here.
When the weather gets warmer a little dog shop (with balls, leashes and even pet ice cream) opens up on the grounds. They even have a pet wash station so you don't have to leave with your dog all wet and sandy.
Montrose beach in general is a fun place to bring your family. The dog beach offers a safe place to get in the water with your pup. We enjoy coming here in the spring, summer as well as the fall. We took a break between November to April because we knew Gypsy would get in the water regardless of the temperature. We sure are glad that we can take the hour trip to the city a couple times a week to spend time with Gypsy. Comment down below if you have ever been or plan on coming out to Montrose Dog Beach. We would love to meet you.
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