Best Chicago Kid-Friendly Waterfront Cafes
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Along with almost 20 miles of beachfront trails to walk, run, bike, swim, and, of course, snack along Chicago’s lakefront is probably our best asset. Whether you are north, south, or in the middle of downtown, you don’t have to wander miles away to find an open beachfront cafe. Below is a list of kid-friendly waterfront cafes in Chicago.
Waterfront Cafe
6219 North Sheridan Rd,
Chicago, IL 60660
773-761-3294
The Waterfront Cafe is a casual lakeside dining & performance venue serving all ages, sizes, colors, genders, beliefs, religions, orientations & cultures. Located just minutes from downtown, The WATERFRONT is located in the center of Berger Park and is housed in a historic landmark coach house attached to one of the few remaining mansions that once lined Chicago’s Lakefront. The Waterfront Cafe’s open-aired patio is perfect for a relaxing summer night of dinner, drinks & live music! – waterfrontcafechicago.com
Caffè Oliva At Ohio Street Beach
550 East Grand Avenue,
Chicago, IL 60611
Our easygoing island attitude and resort-like atmosphere create an instantly inviting setting for any event. Guests will kick back, relax and enjoy a dazzling array of drinks and dishes while island rhythms keep everyone moving. – caffeoliva.com
The Dock
200 W. Montrose Harbor Dr.
Chicago, IL 60601
(773)704–8435
Caffe Olivia, hidden away on the serene shores of Oak Street Beach, offers a casual menu and sweeping lake views in a charming setting. Fresh salads topped with grilled calamari, fish tacos, coconut shrimp, burgers named after different Chicago neighborhoods, and more are available. The patio welcomes dogs and even serves a burger patty just for them. The Dock is more than just a sandy get away from your day in the sun at Montrose Beach; it is a hub for late-night luaus, delicious bites, and live music throughout the summer! Stop by for a cocktail, or two, and see why everyone wants to party and dine at The Dock. – thedockatmontrosebeach.com
Castaways
1603 N Lake Shore Dr.
Chicago, IL 60611
773-281-1200
Castaways Bar and Grill is synonymous with summertime in Chicago. Castaways is immediately recognizable — when you see the massive ship washed up on the sand, you’ll know you’ve arrived. The iconic boathouse on North Avenue Beach is the perfect spot for great food and ice-cold drinks. The rooftop features the best views in the city – overlooking the lakefront and the Chicago skyline. Dine on tasty appetizers, sandwiches, fresh salads, and refreshing desserts. And cool off with our signature cocktails and frozen sensations. The atmosphere is relaxed during the week with casual beachgoers and more energetic on summer weekends with live DJs bringing a party vibe. – castawayschicago.com
Oak Street Beach Food & Drink
1001 N Lake Shore Dr.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 988-4650
Located in the middle of Chicago’s own sun-drenched playground, Oak Street Beach is a gathering hot spot with the backdrop of Lake Michigan’s glistening beauty and framed by the majestic skyscrapers of downtown Chicago. – oakstreetbeach.com
Picnicking on Chicago beaches is always fun, but for a more elevated (and mostly sand-free) experience, try one of the many waterfront restaurants dotting the shores of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Whether you want to watch waves lapping on the lake’s sandy beaches or gaze at high rises rising above the river, Chicago is full of outdoor seating and open air restaurants that take full advantage of all that waterfront property, offering summery drinks and food.