Hotels near Oak Street Beach Chicago

Serenity by the Shore: Discover the Hidden Gem of Oak Street Beach

Oak Street Beach, nestled along the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan, is Chicago's urban oasis where city life meets sandy shores. Just steps from the iconic Magnificent Mile, this vibrant beach offers sunbathing, swimming, and stunning skyline views. Visitors can unwind at the charming beach house or stroll along the scenic lakefront path. Nearby attractions like the Skydeck Chicago and Shedd Aquarium provide cultural enrichment, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're seeking romance or a family outing, Oak Street Beach promises a refreshing escape in the heart of the Windy City. For the best hotel rates near Oak Street Beach, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay near Oak Street Beach

When planning a vacation near Oak Street Beach in Chicago, you'll find a diverse range of hotel accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. Options range from luxury beachfront properties to cozy boutique hotels, all offering easy access to the beach and nearby attractions. Many hotels in the Streeterville area provide stunning views of Lake Michigan, while others are located in the vibrant downtown Chicago scene, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city’s highlights. Here are some of the best hotels near Oak Street Beach that our travelers love:

1. Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile - MedicalOpens in a new window: Located within a mile from Oak Street Beach, Sonesta ES Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile - Medical is a 3.0-star hotel ideal for travelers seeking a Beach, Adventure, or Business-themed experience. This property offers direct access to the beach and various adventure sports options nearby, including fishing, hiking, and sailing. Additionally, business travelers will appreciate the on-site business amenities, such as a meeting room and business center, making it a convenient choice for both leisure and work.
2. Millennium Knickerbocker ChicagoOpens in a new window: Millennium Knickerbocker Chicago is a 4.0-star hotel situated within a mile from Oak Street Beach, perfect for those interested in Business and Shopping themes. Located in the shopping district, this hotel provides excellent access to local retail options. With business amenities like conference space, it caters well to corporate travelers, ensuring a productive stay while being close to the beach and city attractions.
3. The DrakeOpens in a new window: Just a short distance from Oak Street Beach, The Drake is a 4.0-star hotel that combines Beach, Business, and Family themes. The hotel features direct beach access, making it a fantastic option for families and beach lovers alike. With a variety of business amenities such as a conference center and free cribs for children, it is well-equipped to meet the needs of both leisure and business travelers.

Things to do near Oak Street Beach for first time

Oak Street Beach offers a stunning lakeside escape for travelers, featuring sandy shores perfect for sunbathing and swimming. With opportunities for boating, sports, and shopping nearby, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city for a perfect three-day getaway. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Oak Street Beach:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Holy Name Cathedral, an architectural gem that captures the essence of Chicago's rich history. After soaking in its beautiful interiors, take a short walk to Michigan Avenue, where you can indulge in some retail therapy at the renowned shops along the Magnificent Mile. Don’t forget to stop at Water Tower Place, an iconic landmark that offers not only shopping but also fantastic dining options. Enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the city skyline.
• Day 2: Start your day at Navy Pier, a must-visit attraction featuring shops, restaurants, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. After exploring the pier, make your way to Ohio Street Beach, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the sun. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s Hospital, where you can learn about their mission to support families with children in need, and perhaps even volunteer your time to help out.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Millennium Park, where you can take a selfie with the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as The Bean. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Grant Park, often referred to as Chicago's front yard, and take in the beautiful gardens and fountains. Conclude your day with a scenic walk along the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can unwind by the water while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, perfect for an evening of relaxation and reflection on your Chicago journey.

5 tips to find a great Oak Street Beach hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Oak Street Beach is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices tend to be more affordable. For a great value for your money, it's recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the key attractions nearby, such as the beautiful beach and scenic lake. This way, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discover fantastic last-minute deals to Oak Street Beach by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you're more likely to find great rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you could snag the latest prices and reservation costs without missing out on opportunities to save. Enjoy your time at the beach with good availability and potential discounts!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. So, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses near Oak Street Beach.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for a vacation, think about your location. Choosing accommodations near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but they usually tend to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel near Oak Street Beach and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat near Oak Street Beach

Here are some famous dishes near Oak Street Beach, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America:

• Chicago-style hot dog: A true Windy City staple, the Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frankfurter served on a poppy seed bun, topped with a vibrant array of condiments including yellow mustard, chopped onions, sweet pickle relish, a tomato slice, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. This dish is a perfect example of the city's culinary philosophy, emphasizing bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
• Italian beef sandwich: Another quintessential Chicago dish, the Italian beef sandwich features thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef simmered in its own juices, served on an Italian roll. Diners can customize their sandwich with sweet or hot peppers, and it's often dipped in the savory broth for an extra burst of flavor. This portable meal is beloved for its convenience and personalization, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Best time to go to Oak Street Beach

Oak Street Beach experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.7°F (-3.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). June is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months at Oak Street Beach, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.