Wisconsin’s Unexpectedly Stunning Beaches
Chicago is a favourite gateway for UK travellers, famous for its
skyline, deep-dish pizza and bustling lakefront. But just beyond the city, under
two hours’ drive, lies a very different kind of summer escape: W Chicago is a favourite
gateway for UK travellers, famous for its skyline, deep-dish pizza and bustling
lakefront. But just beyond the city, under two hours’ drive, lies a very
different kind of summer escape: Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan shoreline, which boasts
a stretch of beaches so unexpectedly beautiful they almost feel coastal.
Wide sandy shores, rolling dunes and sparkling blue waters
create a scene more akin to an oceanside retreat than a lake. And the best
part? These beaches are quieter, uncrowded and just a short drive from the
city, offering a perfect complement to an urban vacation.
The top four beaches near Chicago
1. North Beach, Racine – Best for families
Just over an hour from Chicago, North Beach offers 2,500 feet of
soft sand across 50 acres — plenty of room to spread out while enjoying a
classic summer vibe. This Blue Wave-certified beach is clean, safe and
eco-friendly, making it perfect for families or anyone looking for a worry-free
day by the water. Beyond the sand, Racine combines small-town charm with
big-city amenities: explore the nearby historic Wind Point Lighthouse, admire
Frank Lloyd Wright architecture or take a scenic walk along the Lake Michigan
Pathway. With playgrounds, seasonal live music and a bustling summer scene,
North Beach delivers both relaxation and adventure in one unforgettable stop.
2. Bradford Beach, Milwaukee (~1 hr 30 mins / 85 miles) – Best
for social summer vibes
Bradford Beach brings a lively, social energy to the lakeshore.
Volleyball courts, seasonal pop-up bars and special events make it a hotspot
for sun-seekers looking for fun and excitement, while still enjoying the
conveniences and culture of city life just steps away.
3. Harrington Beach State Park, Belgium (~1 hr 45 mins / 100
miles) – Best for peace and nature
Offering a relaxing, natural escape, Harrington Beach is home to
over a mile of unspoiled shoreline framed by limestone ledges and forest
trails. Ideal for hiking, picnicking or simply soaking up the serenity, it’s a
great choice for travellers craving calm and spectacular scenery.
4. Kohler-Andrae State Park, Sheboygan (~2 hrs / 125 miles) –
Best for dramatic dunes and long walks
Known for its sweeping sand dunes and pristine, white beaches,
Kohler-Andrae feels like a world away. Wooden boardwalks lead through the dunes
to expansive shores, perfect for sunset strolls, long walks and experiencing
the quiet beauty of Lake Michigan.
A truly unique stop: Schoolhouse Beach, Washington Island
For something unforgettable, head even further north to
Schoolhouse Beach. Instead of sand, this shoreline is made of smooth, glacial
limestone pebbles, and its waters are astonishingly clear. So distinctive is
the landscape that visitors are prohibited from removing stones, preserving a
natural treasure that feels almost European in its charm.
Wisconsin’s coastline offers a surprising summer escape that’s
easily accessible from Chicago. In just a few hours, visitors can travel from
the bustle of the city to quiet, dune-backed beaches, hidden natural gems and
lakeside towns.
From city streets to sparkling shores, this summer you can enjoy
the best of both worlds — Chicago’s excitement and Wisconsin’s stunning beaches
— all in one unforgettable trip.
Note to Editors
About Wisconsin: With breath-taking natural landscapes and vibrant urban communities, every adventure in Wisconsin is cause for celebration. From the 1,000 miles of Great Lakes and Mississippi River shoreline, 15,000 inland lakes and nearly half of the state covered by forests, adventure seekers can kayak, fish, hike, mountain bike or ski their way around the state’s natural wonders. For road-trippers, Wisconsin’s scenic roads lead to unique destinations, where shared moments of joy lie at the heart of each diverse community. Discover more than 250 classic Supper Clubs, iconic Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings and local businesses dedicated to creativity and the arts. Explore the fresh flavours of Wisconsin’s culinary scene, known for blending tradition with innovation in dishes from culturally inspired classics to farm-to-table favourites. Here’s to making lasting memories and endless discoveries. www.travelwisconsin.com
More information, images, brochures, maps available from: Cellet
Marketing & Public Relations Ltd www.cellet.co.uk or telephone: 01295
722816.isconsin’s Lake Michigan shoreline, which boasts a stretch of beaches so
unexpectedly beautiful they almost feel coastal.