The park is named in honor of David Hartigan, a former alderman of Chicago’s 49th Ward.
It sits at the northernmost point of the Chicago lakefront park system before transitioning into private residential property and the Evanston border.
The beach is categorized as a neighborhood beach, prioritizing local residents over the large-scale tourism typical of North Avenue or Oak Street beaches.
Hartigan Beach Park, officially known as David Hartigan Beach, is a public park located along the Lake Michigan shoreline in the Rogers Park neighborhood of Chicago. The park serves as a community access point to the lakefront, featuring a modest sandy beach and protected swimming areas during the summer season. It is situated at the terminus of Albion Avenue, marking the northern end of a series of smaller, neighborhood-oriented beaches. The park provides views of the surrounding high-rise residential architecture and the expansive horizon of Lake Michigan. It is managed by the Chicago Park District and functions as a local recreational space for swimming, sunbathing, and passive waterfront enjoyment.
The north end of the beach looking south toward the Chicago skyline.
Check the official Chicago Park District website for daily water quality and swimming status updates before arrival.
The sand area is relatively narrow; arrive early on warm weekends to secure a spot.
Bring water shoes if you prefer, as the entry point can contain submerged lake stones.
Do not swim when the red flag is posted, as strong rip currents can occur near the breakwaters.
Lifeguards are only present during the summer season; swimming is prohibited outside of these supervised hours.
No glass containers or alcohol permitted on the beach; keep noise levels moderate for residential neighbors.
