Lake Michigan Chicago

Lake Michigan Chicago

Chicago, Cook County, IL
469mi²
175.00ft
Directions
Lake Information

Nestled along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Michigan, the vibrant cityscape of Chicago, Illinois, stands as a testament to the dynamic intersection of urban sophistication and natural splendor. Cook County's stretch of Lake Michigan's coast is a captivating haven, seamlessly blending the architectural wonders of the city with the pristine beauty of the Great Lake. The expansive Lake Michigan waterfront in Chicago offers residents and visitors alike a multifaceted experience. From the iconic Navy Pier, adorned with its Ferris wheel and bustling with activity, to the sandy stretches of Oak Street Beach, where sun-seekers can unwind against the backdrop of the city skyline, every inch of the shoreline tells a unique story. Beyond the urban allure, Lake Michigan's shoreline in Cook County serves as a recreational playground, providing opportunities for water-based adventures. Kayakers paddle along the shore, while sailboats gracefully navigate the open waters. The lake's vastness becomes a canvas for aquatic enthusiasts, with jet skis and paddleboards dotting the horizon. The lakefront also hosts a myriad of cultural and recreational attractions, such as Millennium Park, where the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture ("The Bean") mirrors the energy of the city. The Lakefront Trail invites joggers and cyclists to traverse the scenic expanse, offering panoramic views of both the water and the cityscape. In the evening, as the sun sets over Lake Michigan, the Chicago skyline transforms into a glittering spectacle. The juxtaposition of shimmering skyscrapers against the tranquil waters creates a mesmerizing ambiance, enticing locals and tourists alike to stroll along the lakefront or embark on evening cruises for a unique perspective of the city's lights. The culinary scene along Lake Michigan is equally enticing, with waterfront restaurants serving up delectable cuisine complemented by panoramic views. From Navy Pier's diverse eateries to quaint cafes nestled along the shore, the culinary offerings reflect the city's cosmopolitan flair. This segment of Lake Michigan's shoreline is not just a geographic border; it's a dynamic interface between nature and urbanity, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether one seeks recreational adventures, cultural exploration, or simply a moment of tranquility by the water's edge, the Cook County stretch of Lake Michigan stands as a testament to the seamless integration of natural beauty and metropolitan vibrancy.

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Current Conditions

47°F°
Feels like 33°F°
Windy
Today's High
52°F°
Today's Low
44°F°

Water Temperature

45°F
Updated: (May 7)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Lake Michigan Chicago is 45°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind20 mph N (Gust 27 mph)
Pressure
30.17 inHg
Visibility17 mi
Humidity69%
Cloud Cover38%

Forecast: Friday, May 9

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
44°F°
10 AM
46°F°
1 PM
49°F°
4 PM
51°F°

Temperature

High
52°F°
Low
44°F°

Precipitation

Chance0%
Amount0.00"
Typeclear

Wind

7mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
18mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed12 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise10:36 AM
Sunset12:58 AM
Moon PhasewaxingGibbous
Max UV Index8 (Very High)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
2/5

Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

5:00 AM - 5:00 AM

3:25 PM - 5:55 PM

Minor Times (Good)

9:52 PM - 11:22 PM

8:32 AM - 10:02 AM

Outlook for Friday at Lake Michigan Chicago

Expect temperatures ranging from 44°F to 52°F. Skies look mostly clear with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 7 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 18 mph. The maximum UV index will be 8 (Very High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 5:00 AM and 3:25 PM, or try the minor windows near 9:52 PM and 8:32 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Lake Michigan Chicago.

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May 8th 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
175 ft
Area
469 mi²
Coordinates
41.892, -87.599

Weather Forecast

Friday

52°F
44°F

Saturday

61°F
47°F

Sunday

57°F
47°F

Monday

60°F
52°F

Tuesday

61°F
55°F

Wednesday

62°F
55°F

Thursday

79°F
58°F

Friday

75°F
62°F

Saturday

71°F
58°F
Friday - 5/9/2025
52°F
44°F
12am
47°F
45°F
30.21 hPa
12 mph
NE
G: 17 mph
2am
47°F
45°F
30.21 hPa
11 mph
ENE
G: 18 mph
4am
46°F
45°F
30.22 hPa
12 mph
ENE
G: 15 mph
6am
45°F
45°F
30.23 hPa
9 mph
ENE
G: 12 mph
8am
45°F
45°F
30.25 hPa
8 mph
NE
G: 11 mph
10am
46°F
45°F
30.27 hPa
7 mph
NE
G: 11 mph
12pm
48°F
45°F
30.27 hPa
7 mph
NNE
G: 13 mph
2pm
50°F
45°F
30.24 hPa
7 mph
NNE
G: 12 mph
4pm
51°F
45°F
30.22 hPa
6 mph
NE
G: 11 mph
6pm
52°F
45°F
30.20 hPa
3 mph
ENE
G: 7 mph
8pm
51°F
45°F
30.19 hPa
2 mph
SE
G: 4 mph
10pm
49°F
45°F
30.21 hPa
4 mph
S
G: 7 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Lake Michigan Chicago

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

33°F

On Mar 30

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

48°F

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

  • Warmest avg: August (72°F).
  • Coolest avg: January (34°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: May → June (+15°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: November → December (-11°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

12am1am2am3am4am5am6am7am8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm7pm8pm9pm10pm11pm05101520

Wind Direction

36°

Pressure

1023 mb

Cloud Cover

1%

Visibility

15 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

FriSatSunMonTueWedThuFriSat0.008.8617.7226.5835.44
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Michigan Chicago

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