Chicago Air and Water Show Tips for a High-Flying Weekend

The Chicago Air and Water Show brings roaring jet noise to the skies over Lake Michigan as crowds marvel at the daredevil maneuvering of planes, helicopters, and watercraft. Every August, more than one million spectators gather along the lakefront to watch thrilling aerial stunts of the Blue Angels, Golden Knights, and more with the city skyline as a backdrop. The largest free air show in the country is one of Chicago’s most beloved events of the summer.

I’ve lived in Chicago for nearly two decades, and the Air and Water Show is one of the most fun things to do in August. Whether you’re visiting Chicago for the show or you live in Chicagoland, here are my tips for the Chicago Air and Water Show.

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When is the Chicago Air and Water Show?

The 2025 Chicago Air and Water Show will be held on Saturday, August 16 and Sunday, August 17. Flyovers will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Where is the Chicago Air and Water Show?

The center of the action takes place at North Avenue Beach. You can see the show along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street. 

History of the Chicago Air and Water Show

In 1959, Chicago Park District Supervisor Al Benedict held the first Chicago Air and Water Show. The event was called the Lake Shore Park Air & Water Show, and it was held at Chicago Avenue and Lake Michigan. The show was a family day celebration for Park District campers, and it had a budget of $88. Families watched a Coast Guard Air Sea Rescue demonstration, a diving competition, water skiers, and a water ballet. Since then, the show has attracted millions of spectators to see adrenaline filled feats performed by experts from around the world.

Best Places to Watch the Chicago Air and Water Show

North Avenue Beach is the focal point of the show, and the best place to watch if you want to see everything. While you can view the aerial action from around the city, North Avenue is the epicenter of the water stunts and demonstrations. This is also the most crowded place to watch the Air and Water Show.

Crowds will be lining the length of the lakefront, but you might luck out with a good vantage point outside of the main viewing area. Diversey Harbor gives you a good view of the skyline and show to the south. At Milton Olive Park, jets coming in from Gary will zoom over your head and between skyscrapers. Oak Street Beach and Ohio Street Beach are much smaller than North Avenue Beach, but they offer great views of the Air and Water Show. You can always snag a spot on the Lakefront Trail, also known as the “concrete beach,” south of North Avenue Beach.

If you prefer to view the Air and Water Show with a drink in your hand, try a rooftop or observation deck. You can’t beat the views from 360 Chicago, 94 floors up! Get a ticket in advance to ensure you don’t miss seeing the Blue Angels cruise by the window with views of the entire lakefront. The J. Parker at Hotel Lincoln offers a chic rooftop to take in all of the stunts just across Lincoln Park on the lakefront. While it isn’t in the center of the air show action, jets will be flying over Navy Pier’s Beer Garden and Offshore rooftop restaurant near the Sable Hotel all weekend. Located in the Loop, Cindy’s at the Chicago Athletic Association isn’t near the show’s focal point but it will deliver views of planes jetting over Lake Michigan. 

Who is Performing at the Chicago Air and Water Show?

The Chicago Air and Water Show’s lineup changes every year. In 2025, The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds will headline performing expert maneuvers in the Air Force’s premier fighter jet, the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Also headlining is the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights. Watching them land aerial feats on the beaches of Lake Michigan is always a highlight of the show.

Other performers include military units like the U.S. Coast Guard and Marine Corps Osprey, daredevil civilians like the swirling planes of Bill Stein Airshows, local heroes like the Chicago Fire Department Air and Sea Rescue. View the full list of performers on the Chicago Air and Water Show website.

Is the Chicago Air and Water Show Accessible?

On Saturday and Sunday, a beach mat will be set up offering accessibility on the sand between Castaways and the event staging barricades at North Avenue Beach.

Tips for Attending the Chicago Air and Water Show

The Chicago Air and Water Show is one of the city’s most anticipated events of the year. With thousands of people flocking to the lakefront it can be overwhelming. I’ve lived in Chicago for nearly two decades and have attended the Air and Water Show many times. Here are some tips on how to navigate the crowds and have a spectacular Air and Water Show.

1. Watch the Show on Rehearsal Day

It’s a well-known secret that the Air and Water Show practice days can be the best time to catch the action. While there will still be many people out to see it, the rehearsal is far less crowded than the main event. Air and Water Show rehearsal day is Friday, August 15. Your best bet is to post up on the lakefront between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for occasional flyovers.

2. Get on a Boat

There is no better place to watch the Chicago Air and Water Show than from Lake Michigan. Watching jets in formation along the stunning skyline while drinking a beer on the water is a core Chicago memory!

If you’re not lucky enough to have a friend with a boat, grab a ticket to one of these tours on the water during the morning or afternoon.

• Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
• Lake Michigan 30-Minute Speedboat Ride
• Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
• Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

3. Pack Your Cooler Carefully

Alcohol is prohibited on Chicago beaches, including at the Air and Water Show. This has never stopped folks from packing a few beers and enjoying them responsibility, but I have seen a police checkpoint at the Air and Water Show where alcohol was confiscated. I’m not saying to hide your alcohol but be careful about bringing it to the show. I have also seen police issue tickets for drinking on the beach, so be aware of your surroundings.

4. Arrive Early

Thousands of people will have the same idea to enjoy Chicago’s beach and lakefront during the dazzling show. Arrive before the bulk of the crowds to secure a spot with plenty of room for your beach setup and great views of the show.

5. Travel by Bike or Public Transit

There’s no beach parking during the Chicago Air and Water Show, so you’ll be schlepping your beach gear if you drive. One of the best parking lot options is at the Lincoln Park Zoo, but it will cost you $60 per day in advance and $70 on event days so purchase it in advance. 

If you’re taking a rideshare or taxi the pick up and drop off zone is at the North Avenue north bound entrance to Jean Baptiste Point DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Be sure to factor in lots of traffic in the area.

Skip the stress of driving and take the CTA. Take Bus #73 to North Avenue Beach.

Biking is a convenient way to get to the show, but bike racks will be packed for the event. You may want to consider locking up your bike in Lincoln Park before crossing the bridge to the lakefront. 

6. Pack Sun Protection

After you haul your beach gear and find the perfect spot, you don’t want to get taken out by sunburn. There is no shade on the beach, and the summer sun can be glaring. Pack a hat, sunglasses, beach umbrella, and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself. 

7. Stay Hydrated

The Chicago Air and Water Show can be a long day in the sun. Be sure to pack plenty of water and stay hydrated. Food and beverage vendors are available at most beaches, but you can avoid the lines and expense by packing your own beverages and snacks.

8. Don’t Forget Ear Protection

While the roar of jets is a thrilling sound, it can also be damaging. If you have sensitive ears or young kids, you may want to consider packing ear protection.

9. Check the Schedule

With so much action packed into the Chicago Air and Water Show, you won’t want to miss a moment. Check the schedule in advance on the Chicago Air and Water Show website so you know what demonstrations to anticipate.

10. Tune in to the Voice of the Show

With so much excitement at the show, it’s helpful to have someone guide you through the performers, vehicles, and stunts. Herb Hunter broadcasts from the announcer’s stand at North Avenue Beach and is known as “the voice” of the Chicago Air and Water Show. If you’re sitting outside the range of the speakers, you can tune your radio or mobile device to 780 AM or 105.9 FM to hear Herb’s broadcast.

Where to Stay for the Chicago Air and Water Show

If you book a flight to O’Hare or Midway Airports and need a taxi or car service, you can also book an airport transfer to downtown. The Air and Water Show’s location is easily accessible to plenty of hotels and home rentals in Lincoln Park, River North, and Lakeview.

Some of the most convenient hotels to stay at in Chicago near the Air and Water Show include the Hotel Lincoln right across from the action, the Drake Hotel on Lake Michigan, and the Viceroy Hotel with a rooftop pool to take in the views.

I’ve added a handy map below to check the latest hotel rates near the Air and Water Show. You can also check Chicago hotel rates on Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Expedia or try home rentals (great for bigger groups) on Vrbo.

I hope this helps you have an amazing Air and Water Show experience at one of Chicago’s best events!