Not trying to jinx it, but it really felt like summer today. So, we did what everyone in Chicago did and got outside! We made our way to Montrose Harbor to check out some boats, look for ducks, and enjoy the beautiful day. There is a lot of parking over here which is always great. We had a wonderful time taking in the sights and the beautiful skyline at the lake. Hopefully we have many more summer days here in the future! read more

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Montrose Harbor is a fun place to go for the day. There are plenty of places to sit by the lake, take in the views of the beautiful downtown Chicago skyline and also walk around. Dock E is a great friendly place to dock your boat. All boat owners are your neighbors and always happy to lend a helping hand in bringing boats in from a sail. Nighttime after 9pm can be a bit sketchy as it gets really rowdy outside the docks area with car radios blaring, drag racing, crowds etc... We always have fun though on my sister's boat and the day provided perfect weather! read more

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Rubi was an amazing server, food was fresh! Couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Montrose Harbor brings about so many great childhood memories. Like getting fishing rods and bait (crawfish, maggots and night crawlers) at the bait shop. Remember the smelt run and how you can set up a net and bonfire until your bucket was full. I remember pulling an all nighter smelting (never mind the danger) as a kid with buddies. I also liked casting my little Cleo spoons off the hook pier - hoping to land a chinook or steelhead. That never happened and maybe that's why I like salmon sashimi so much. :) Aside from fishing, there are so many bike paths, a bird sanctuary, it's a great place to chat, and take pics of the beautiful lake and skyline. Oh, the boats are really cool to look at in the summer time but as a land lover, I never had an itch to take up sailing or boating. One more childhood favorite - I used to swim across the mouth of the harbor (from pier to pier) as a kid and once you start swimming, there's no turning back and there's no life guard, just your buddies screaming out shark! The water is deep, cold and dark green. My gym shoes tied around my neck was not a good idea. I'd call DCFS if I saw that happen today. read more

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I forget how much is east of Lake Shore Drive. It seems like just a bit and there's the lake but in some places the areas east of the Drive are extensive. (Fun fact: it's all landfill.) Montrose Harbor is one of those places. As the name suggests, there are over 700 slips here for the fancy folks to dock their boats between May 1 and October 31. In addition, there are walking paths and the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary. And there's a gorgeous view of the city from here--I can't wait to see it in late spring or summer. Parking feels abundant... but on a beautiful warm day I'll bet it's difficult. It's not free, so be ready to pony up. read more

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This is one of my favorite sections of the lakefront to get a walk in at. I have been telling people for years, who needs an ocean when you have Lake Michigan. In many ways it operates like an ocean with the wicked rip tides and waves. The view of the lake is totally enhanced by the beauty of the beach and bird sanctuary at Montrose Harbor. It is very easy to sometimes forget you are in the city until you turn and see that magnificent skyline. It is hard to believe but Montrose Point is a 15-acre bird sanctuary. It is not uncommon to see people walking around with binoculars, looking at the different birds that can be found there. In addition, there is a 13 acre natural area located on the eastern end of Montrose Beach within Lincoln Park, complete with dunes. Here you can walk through wild grasses, plants, etc. on paths that have been cut through to allow you to walk without harming the environment. If you are observant, you can also see a lovely selection of butterflies, something you don't seem to see a lot of these days. The views from here are pretty impressive. I particularly love walking along the sea wall and taking in the view of downtown Chicago or being there to see a moon rise from the comfort of my chair while sipping on some bubbles. There are also plenty of areas to BBQ if you wish and areas where people can just sit and chill, or fish in the lake. There is a pier there that you can walk on that takes you pretty far out into the lake. While it is a pretty wide platform, I would say you still need to be careful about walking too close to the edge on windy days. You do not want to fall into the lake and I honestly have no idea how deep the water is at that point. That said, it gives you an interesting viewpoint of the Chicago landscape from far South to North. Along with the harbor for boats, it is just a very scenic and tranquil place to spend some time in. read more

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12/17/20 - I've been to Montrose Harbor before, but lately because of Covid the access has been limited. I had to go down to a Irving Park, park the car and walk north along the lake because the parking lot is closed and doesn't allow access by cars. This is good because normally I just drive in park & meander around the lakefront & harbor area. You really need to get out and explore because there is so much more to this area that you see walking that you miss when your driving a car. Montrose Harbor is pretty dead right now for a number of reasons. 1). The boating season is over so the harbor was empty. 2). Covid has shutdown many of the entry points to the lakefront The only things in abundance are the geese leaving tons of goose poop everywhere & Ducks and a few cormorants & a few people out walking. Now it's not like I just moved here from Kansas Toto. I have been to Montrose Harbor many times before but I was completely unaware that there was a bird sanctuary that I was completely unaware of. Thanks to Sarah P mentioning it I became aware of it. As I wandered around the harbor area looking for it I asked a police officer where this aviary was and he pointed it out to me. Like duh it was right in front of me of me. After going through the aviary (not much to see this time of year). I passed through and I was flabbergasted that there was a beach beyond. I never even knew there was a beach. The things you find when you get our and walk. As I came out of the area of the bird sanctuary I started walking south along the lake front back to where I parked my car by the golf course by Irving Park. As I walked towards the red light marker I suddenly realized that I needed to be on the other side where the green light marker was as the 2 points of entry into Montrose Harbor. I had two choices 1) I could walk all the way back around the harbor 2) I could take a short swim across the harbor opening. I mean what's the big deal it was 30 degrees lol. I decided to walk back around the harbor read more

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The elotes taste better by the lake! There's something about a beautiful sunny day, the lake & some bomb elotes. I prefer to stop by here in the evening time & you can occasionally see fireworks from here (if Navy Pier is doing them). Parking can get pretty tight, but people are usually moving in and out so you'll find a spot if you're patient. Parking is free right now, but there's rumors that they're gonna make it paid soon. read more

Montrose Harbor - Picture of an Elote near Montrose Harbor - Marinas Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love this area as I do the entire Montrose Beach & Bird Sanctuary. This area (The Harbor) provides access to the bike and walking paths, and offers numerous spaces with benches to sit and reflect, people watch, or take notice of the fisherman in action, or spot the various species of birds roosting, singing, or flying about. There is a detailed sign about the Purple Martins which are of the "Swallow" Bird Species that migrate from South America to Montrose Harbor on an annual basis. Next to it is a roped off area where you can watch the birds fly in and out in their custom made habitats! There are also boats moored in the small harbor space itself. read more

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What a nice place to dock your boat! Boats coming in and out of the Harbor just add to a picture perfect summer afternoon, with stellar views of the City! Montrose Harbor is a great place for a cookout/picnic, just bring patience for parking. I would like to bring my son fishing here sometime, and definitely see returning to the Harbor to enjoy time next to the water. I used to come to Montrose Harbor to watch the 3rd of July Fireworks, the view downtown is that good. read more

Would've had a wonderful time on the boat, had the idiot college girl next to us not interject with her idiotic assumptions. Yay we're on the boat. Idiot girl: HI!! HEY!! *ignores her IG: hi!! Me: yeah? IG: you know Dave? Me: *puzzled look IG: you guys a friend of Dave's? He owns this boat? Me: No. "Dave" doesn't own this boat. IG: oh ok... *goes on to loudly chat with her friends about Dave and relations to the boat. Then following with an attitude, as if someone appointed the airhead to police the entire harbor of intruders. That's great little lady, but try policing ACTUALIZE intruders. I wish I would've gotten her name so I could've brought it up to the club WHILE we were there. FYI to other boat owners or KIDS of boat owners, just because u hang around at the dock often, don't annoy people with your dumb questions. Better yet, don't snoop [wrongly] around, especially if you're drunk and practically screaming when talking. It's a safe place, and pretty quiet to go fishing. The only thing I'd want the club/common citizens to do is clean up a little. read more

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Great beautiful place to run at! This is also the location of a few of out local races, such Lakefront 10 Mile, 6k For Water, Be The Match 5k, and many more. What i love about this area is the view of Harbor, and boats, with a glimpse of John Hancock Building in further out. Very peaceful area in the mornings, with nothing but the sound of waves hitting the concrete, and fishermen, runner's, and walkers on the path. Montrose Harbor is next to a soccer field, track field, softball field, bird sanctuary, and Montrose Beach so you can enjoy many other activities other than those on the Harbor. There is also a bike share, and many places to park. If you park in the right place you will not have to pay, so find parking wisely, because there are places that charge, and places that don't charge. If you're a visitor take note of that, and avoid parking in those areas which are normally gated. Enjoy! read more

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I'm on a boat! I've sailed out of this harbor for years and it is truly a wonderful place. There are all types of people here running, fishing, sailing, picnicking, playing soccer, and just enjoying the fabulous views of Chicago on a nice day. Montrose Harbor houses the Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club, which is a hardy and happy sailing center. It is much more democratic and casual here than at other yacht clubs and you can't beat the warm personalities of the members. read more

Great to be back, my favorite lakefront in Chicago I love the beach it's also a dog beach . great place to meditate one of my favorite Hangouts read more

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We live so close to Montrose Harbor and is a really relaxing place to go for a walk. The beach area is pretty busy but is very beautiful. We always go sit there on a nice and just enjoy the view of the city. There is also a restaurant on the beach near by. read more

Montrose Harbor - Marinas Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great location to have your boat!!! Best place for a BBQ with a lake view! The best place to fish on the lake. It has plenty of free parking but you have to get there early for that. Plenty of space for a family picnic with the best view of the city. It's a great area for flying a kite and just having fun with the kids! Enjoy taking a lot of pictures with the Chicago skyline! Also, be cautious with your surroundings as once a huge fight involving the police broke loose with a huge party here that did not have a permit to have. If you want a party here legally, you will need to get a permit. Be safe here!!! read more

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we run 5 km cinco de miler race all was great some construccion arround but its ok saw all kids playing socer around see you next time runnning read more

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I also am not a member here but was invited to a dock party that was taking advantage of the extended summer we've experienced recently. I was expecting a crazy, knock down type of affair populated with drunk young people who have still managed to hold onto a boat and a dock in this economy. I was wrong but pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere was much more familial, it seems like it's a summer family for many here and they just wanted another bonding moment before they closed up shop for the year. The people were really friendly, with some of the them getting together for an impromptu jam session. Highlight of the evening? One of the guys, stumbled off the pier grabbed a mike stand in a futile attempt at footing and went into the water. Don't worry he made it out fine and the microphone's owner didn't even seem to mind. read more

I'm here early and often due to Montrose Harbor being the location for my Son's flag football. Even if not for that I get up here a decent amount when I go for a bike ride at the Lake. It has probably the biggest hill on all the Lakefront which is great for kite flying or just to get a birds eye, 360 view of all Chicago and Lake Michigan. There's also a habitat that's just to the South of the entrance coming into Montrose Harbor that is pretty cool and interesting. [X] One of the best ! read more

:::::::::Here's what you need to know about Montrose Harbor::::::::: -Free Parking (and plenty of it!) -Walking distance from many bus stops -Amazing views of the city -Lots of room to picnic, fish, and just sit/relax -Designated grilling spots -Open until 11pm ::::::::Days to avoid/Days to get there extra early:::::::: -Memorial Day -4th of July (or whenever the City fireworks are for the 4th) -Labor Day -Air & Water Show -My Birthday (Montrose Harbor Party, y'all!) ::::::::Final Thoughts:::::::: Bring a camera Bring your family Bring a date With amazing views and open access, you can't beat a beautiful location like this. read more

This whole area is very nice. Tons of parking, nice beach, bird sanctuary, a big hill for sledding, and lots of park land. It's a nice place for a run or bike ride. Now there's a restaurant on the beach as well. read more

I love this harbor. I've set sail from this harbor years ago and someone else did it for us this weekend as the girls and I sipped champagne in our bikinis. I love seeing this harbor from my window & from my plane window flying into Chicago. I love reading the names of the boats. What would you name YOUR boat? I think I would go with DAY TRIPPER or SWEPT AWAY. Either way, this place is a fun little hangout. Only one criteria: you need a boat. Any boat will do...but you need at least one. I love watching old men sitting on their boats, fishing, bitching about their wives, and eying the young girls in bikinis (us). ha. I love watching kids get on their wave runners and speed off on the lake. I love watching families grill out on the dock. SLIP SLIDING AWAY....."You know the nearer your destination, the more you're slip sliding away"...-P.Simon read more

My dog likes boats. At least, she likes to look at boats and Montrose Harbor is a place that we like to walk to and sit for a spell. She watches boats and I read my book. Everyone wins! Except for that one time when she tried to jump off the pier... read more

Ya know. I've always loved Montrose Harbor. I've referred to it as my super secret hangout. I've run a ton of 5K's here and the views are beautiful. I've even hung out here to watch fireworks, I know kinda far away but bring some dinner, breathe some fresh air and wait for it. Its always peaceful there. read more

A premiere place to 1) View fireworks on 4th of July weekend; 2) biking on the weekends or jogging when it is warm: a nice tongue of land that takes you out from the beachfront; 3) Expansive beaching; 4); Parking your Divvy bike (although be warned the docks sometimes don't accept the bikes, even though it shows an open spot, and the nearest station is a half mile back); 5) Birdwatching with an aviary; 6) Photography of downtown Chicago from a distance, mood changing with the weather. Great destination in the summer, don't drive on a busy weekend--take the train or bike. read more

I was here yesterday for the annual PAWS walk and even tho it was really chilly, it was a fantastic time - as always. This is our 3rd or 4th year doing this and we love it - so much that we came hungover as we attended a good friend's wedding the night before. That's serious. We started a little later...hey now, at least we got there and My husband, furry child and I had a blast. We got some cool treats and even won some awesome prizes at one of the booths. It's a great charity to support and this walk provided good times and good excercise. This is def a tradition for us. AND i swung by the Yelp booth, of course! ;) read more

I keep my sailboat here and it's by far my favorite harbor. For the most part it's very blue collar and down to earth folks, something that the rest fo Chicago's harbors don't offer (at least those north of Madison Avenue). read more

I no longer live in the city limits and for the most part I do not miss it. That rant needs to be saved for another conversation. what I do miss is specific locations within the city. Montrose harbor is one of them. What draws me is that no matter how many people are there is always have a relaxing feel to it and I always find a place to chill out and relax. It is the perfect urban oasis read more

I can't believe there's an option to review the harbor. I love Montrose Harbor and the surrounding area and beach. Montrose Harbor is a picture perfect postcard every time I run/walk through it. You have old Eastern Europeans fishing off the dock, kids running around, birds looking for food, and awkward couples looking for a room. If you're running down the LSD path and need a break, stop here and check out the great view. read more

I was there last Thursday, enjoying cold drinks and an overall good atmosphere. But a lady manager, I think Amy, was quick to ruin both the atmosphere and good vibe by yelling at her staff and humiliating, busser, bartender, etc. Although I could not confirm this, she seemed inebriated. She was very hostile and did not seem to care if anyone saw or heard her. Not cool to talk to your employees like that. Remember, you're not selling alcohol; you're selling the atmosphere. Pleasant sells! read more

This is one of the places that makes me happiest. Perfect for so many things- A big sky, great view, fresh air and a little escape close to home. read more

My party band, Bounce, has played a number of dock parties at Montrose harbor over the years, and we always have a fantastic time. Everybody is super friendly, and always willing to share their food or beverage. Thanks much, Montrose harbor. See you next summer! read more

I have been a boat owner at Montrose Harbor for over ten years. I am a member of the Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club and have enjoyed many good summers at Montrose Harbor. The harbor has several key benefits for Residents in the Summer: 1) Wednesday Night Sailboat Racing at 6:30pm. Any person can sail on a boat for free as crew. For new crew - just show up by 5:15 to get picked up for the race. Race Pickup is on the crew dock in front of the Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club 2) For small boat sailors, a dry mooring costs as little as $900 a season. This is an incredible value if you sail your boat 40 times or more a season and is great way to access the lake. 3) The Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club (www.corinthian.org) offers either full or crew membership to anyone with either mooring in Montrose Harbor or is regular on a boat moored in Montrose Harbor. Great food, Drinks and Friendships. 4) If you are a sailchicago.org member you can rent boats out of the harbor and take advantage of the excellent sailboat racing provided. 5) For more information about Rhodes 19 sailing, go to: http://www.corinthian.org/rhodes/ See you on the Water! Dave Nelson read more

As someone who grew up by the ocean, it was something I was afraid I'd miss moving to Chicago. But hidden gems like Montrose Harbor make me think I might survive here. =) The area is beautiful, laden with trees, sailboats, multiple paths to walk/run/bike on, and locals just fishing/relaxing/doing their thang. They also have a BIRD SANCTUARY here (currently under construction, but plenty of bird life still fluttering around!). This is my new favorite spot to run to and hide away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Amazing view of the skyline from afar, and a breathe of fresh air! read more

a friend of mine invited us to a dock party at montrose harbor. we had a grand ol' time living it up on the boats. apparently this is their yearly summer party. it's a quaint walk from the docks to the main road with gorgeous views of the water. look out for the ducks swimming, and raccoons lurking around at night. read more

This harbor is awesome. I salmon fish in the fall. Walk it every weekend during spring and summer. Go on friend's boats in the heat of the summer. And let's no forget about Montrose beach, and the huge park across the street. The only reason I don't give it a five is because the traffic management in the park is awful. I'm glad to live close enough to walk, driving can be tough and something should be done about accessibility. read more

I love the doggy beach here. It is so cool that there is a place to take the pups out to run around and spalsh around for a bit.

Some of the greatest photo ops can be captured at Montrose Harbor. I have to agree with everyone else about the picturesque view of the Chicago skyline. There's always something going on mid day to evening. In the morning is great to come here and relax or ponder the meaning of life. Whether you want to get poetic or just sit and fish, it's a great quiet, serene, and relaxing place in the city. read more

I was here for the Zooma 10K and Half Marathon race. I'd never been here before and I absolutely loved it. There is TONS of free parking up and down the streets plus a pay lot if you absolutely can't find anything. I will definitely be back soon to check out what else it has to offer. read more

Just because it is possible to review the harbor, I wanted to throw my 5 stars in. One of my favorite places in Chicago. Theres parking spaces where you can view the skyline and also the walking path is great. read more