Illinois Lake Named One of the Best in U.S. for Swimming

With hot summer days here in Illinois, it's refreshing to know that you can cool off in one of the best places in the nation, according to USA Today.

Cool Off This Summer at One of Illinois' Most Beautiful Lakes

We don’t have oceans or massive beaches in Illinois, but if you head north, you can enjoy the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, recently named one of the best lakes for swimming by USA Today.

Read More: The Prettiest Day Trip in Illinois You've Never Taken

If you're brave enough to handle the chilly temperatures of Lake Michigan, you're tougher than I am! If you're visiting the lake in Chicago, North Avenue Beach is the place to be for that "beach life" vibe and a refreshing way to cool off on hot summer days.

And I can tell you this, during weeks like the one we’ve had with extreme heat, North Avenue Beach is packed with tourists and locals all trying to beat the heat.

Lake Michigan Dog Park

North Avenue Beach might be the most popular beach in Chicago, with hundreds of people visiting regularly. But along Lake Shore Drive, there are several other beaches you might enjoy, especially the dog beach! That’s right, there’s a small section of Lake Michigan in Chicago where you can bring your four-legged friend to cool off on those hot summer days.

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I love going to this beach just to watch the dogs run, play, and swim—it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face. But if animals aren’t your thing, you can always find a quiet spot somewhere along the lakefront to sit, relax, unwind, and cool off. And hey, you’ll still be able to say you swam in one of the best lakes in the country.