CTA Expands Beach Access with Weekend Routes

CTA expands weekend service on Routes 35, 63, 72, and 78 to four lakefront beaches

CTA Adds Beach Bus Service on Four Routes

Chicago's lakefront beaches will be easier to reach this summer as the CTA adds enhanced weekend service on four bus routes. Routes 35, 63, 72, and 78 will run every Sunday and holiday from March 29 through mid-August, transit officials said. The seasonal service connects riders to 31st Street Beach, 63rd Street Beach, North Avenue Beach, and Montrose Beach.

Seasonal Service Targets Summer Recreation

The expanded beach service addresses growing demand for public transit access to Chicago's lakefront recreational areas during peak summer months. Transit officials said the Sunday and holiday schedule fills a gap in weekend service when beach attendance typically peaks. The CTA has offered limited seasonal beach service in previous years, but this expansion adds consistent weekend coverage across four major beach destinations. Officials said the routes were selected based on ridership patterns and beach popularity.

Service Runs 9 AM to 9:30 PM

The beach-bound buses will operate between approximately 9:00 AM and 9:30 PM on service days, officials confirmed. Route 35 serves 31st Street Beach on the South Side, while Route 63 connects to 63rd Street Beach. On the North Side, Route 72 provides access to North Avenue Beach and Route 78 reaches Montrose Beach. Officials didn't specify exact headways or how many additional trips will be added to each route's regular schedule. The service operates only on Sundays and holidays, not Saturdays.

Changes Take Effect March 29

The enhanced beach service begins Sunday, March 29, 2026, and continues through mid-August, though officials haven't announced a specific end date. The CTA typically adjusts seasonal service based on weather and ridership demand. Riders can use standard Ventra fare payment options on all beach routes. Officials said they'll communicate schedule details through the agency's alert system and social media channels as the start date approaches.

Riders Can Track Beach Buses

Beachgoers should plan trips around the Sunday and holiday schedule, as the enhanced service doesn't operate on Saturdays or weekdays. Officials said riders can track bus arrivals in real time and plan trips using transit apps. Moovit provides real-time CTA bus tracking and trip planning for all Chicago routes, including the seasonal beach service.