Mostly Sunny
Cook County, IL · Great Lakes
31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach)
3100 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60616
A wide South Side beach in Bronzeville, renamed Margaret T. Burroughs Beach in 2015 for the African-American artist and historian who co-founded the DuSable Museum.
Today's Conditions
Decent day for photography.
51°F air
Full NWS forecast for This Afternoon
Mostly sunny. High near 51, with temperatures falling to around 49 in the afternoon. West wind around 10 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with a low around 43. West southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.
Weather
- 51°F air — too cold to enjoy the beach
- Sunny skies — mostly sunny
Best for photography today
Atmosphere
Water
Sun & Moon
7-Day Beach Day Forecast
Mostly Sunny
Mostly Sunny
Sunny
Partly Sunny then Slight Chance Rain
Rain Likely
Chance Rain
What to Bring Today
- recommended Layers / windbreaker Only 51°F outside
Always remember water bottle, trash bag (leave no trace).
Best Fishing Times Today
Solunar theory: fish activity peaks at moon transits (major) and moonrise/moonset (minor). All times local.
Beach Info
Parking
Paid harbor lot; free street parking on 31st St west of LSD.
Dogs
Dogs prohibited on Chicago beaches.
Entry Fee
Free
Address
3100 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60616
Amenities
Frequently Asked
Is it safe to swim at 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) today?
31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) shows a live water-quality reading (bacteria levels) and today's swim-safety score at the top of this page, refreshed on every update. Seasonal lifeguards patrol the swim area in summer — follow their flags. Always review the current advisories, surf, and rip-current notes before getting in the water.
Is 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) dog-friendly?
Dogs prohibited on Chicago beaches.
Is there an entry fee at 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach)?
Entry to 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) is free.
Are there lifeguards at 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach)?
Yes. Seasonal lifeguards patrol 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) during the summer swim season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). Outside that window, swim at your own risk.
What amenities are at 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach)?
Amenities at 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) include lifeguards (seasonal), restrooms, showers, concession, fishing docks, harbor, playground, bike path.
When is the water warmest at 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach)?
Great Lakes water temperatures peak in late July and August at roughly 68-74°F near shore — cool compared to the ocean. Best swimming window is mid-July to late August.
Where is 31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) located?
31st Street Beach (Margaret T. Burroughs Beach) is in Cook County, IL, at 3100 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60616.
Nearby Beaches
Updated · Data from NOAA, NWS