CTA Expands Beach Access with Four Routes

CTA expands weekend bus service to four Chicago lakefront beaches starting March 29

CTA Adds Beach Bus Service on Four Routes

Chicago's CTA will expand weekend bus service to four lakefront beaches starting March 29, giving beachgoers easier access to popular summer destinations. The seasonal service runs on Routes 35, 63, 72, and 78, operating approximately 9am to 9:30pm on weekends and holidays through mid-August. Officials haven't announced a specific end date for the seasonal service.

Seasonal Beach Service Details

The expanded service is designed to improve access to Chicago's lakefront recreational areas during peak beach season, transit officials said. Chicago's lakefront beaches draw millions of visitors annually, and enhanced transit service helps reduce parking congestion and traffic in beach neighborhoods. The CTA typically offers seasonal beach routes during summer months when ridership to lakefront destinations increases significantly. Officials said the service enhancement provides convenient connections for customers traveling to the beaches.

Four Routes Serve Popular Beaches

Route 35 31st/35th will serve 31st Street Beach between approximately 9am and 9:30pm on weekends and holidays. Route 63 63rd will provide service to 63rd Street Beach during the same hours. Route 72 North will serve North Avenue Beach, one of Chicago's busiest lakefront destinations, between 9am and 9:30pm. Route 78 Montrose will provide service to Montrose Beach during these hours as well. All four routes will operate throughout the service period on weekends and holidays.

Service Begins Late March

The expanded beach service begins Sunday, March 29, and continues through mid-August, though officials haven't specified an exact end date. The service will operate on weekends and holidays throughout the period. Transit officials said the timing aligns with Chicago's beach season and peak lakefront recreation demand.

Planning Beach Trips

Riders can use the enhanced service to reach Chicago's lakefront beaches without driving or searching for parking near popular destinations. Officials said customers should plan trips around the approximate 9am to 9:30pm service window on weekends and holidays. Moovit provides real-time CTA bus tracking and trip planning for Routes 35, 63, 72, and 78, helping beachgoers time their arrivals and departures throughout the day.