A Long Swim kicks off at 6:30 AM on August 9, 2026, in Winnetka, Illinois, so plan to arrive well before dawn if you're traveling in. The event is held at 899 Tower Road and offers multiple distance options to suit different training goals: 750M, 1 mile, 1.2 miles, 1500M, and 2.4 miles. Entry fees range from $60 to $80 depending on your chosen distance. This open-water swimming event gives you flexibility in distance selection, whether you're building base fitness or pushing longer efforts. The early start time means booking accommodations within reasonable driving distance of the venue is essential for a stress-free race morning.
From the Race Organizer
Along the shores of Lake Michigan, A Long Swim includes distances for all swimmers from beginners to advanced. Safety provided by lifeguards and boats throughout the course. Loops keep the guards close by at every turn. Chicago River Swim 2027 Qualifier!! Looking to up your game and join A Long Swim at the Chicago River Swim in September 2027? Finishing the 1.2, 2.4 and 5K distances qualify you to apply for the Chicago River Swim in 2027. A Long Swim is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Chicago, Illinois that designs and manages open water swimming events raising funds for ALS collaborative world-class research. Every registration includes: A Long Swim Swag ( Short Sleeve Exclusive A Long Swim Shirt), branded race swim cap, breakfast, and a good time. Professionally timed and distances offered: 5K 2.4 miles 1.2 miles 1500 meters 750 meters Fundraising Opportunities: Everyone has a chance to fundraise. Those raising $500 will receive a A Long Swim Stanley 30 ounce tumbler. Raising $1000 will receive a Speedo A Long Swim Backpack and raising $2000 all the goodies and an A Long Swim custom Kijaro fold-up bag chair. A Long Swim - RACE DAY DETAILS Swimmer Check -in Check-in for all pre-registered swimmers and event day registration will begin at Tower Road Beach at 6:00 a.m. You will receive your timing chip, body marking, official swim cap, and A Long Swim Swag. Event Day Registration A $15 premium will be added to anyone registering event day morning. Check, Cash, or Credit Card will be accepted. Wetsuits Wetsuits are welcome. Anything that will keep you happy in the water is fine with us! Conditions: You are swimming in Lake Michigan and conditions can change hourly. Update on temperature and conditions will be sent out 24 hours prior to the event. Parking: Free parking is available at Lloyd Park (799 Sheridan Road, Winnetka, Illinois 60093) just south of Tower Road Beach (899 Sheridan Road, Winnetka, Illinois 60093). A shuttle bus will drive swimmers, spectators, staff and volunteers from Lloyd Park to Tower Road Park. If Lloyd Park lots are full, overflow parking is at the Winnetka Metra Station Lot on the corner of Elm Street and Green Bag Road. The shuttle will also operate at this location. Spectators: This is a great event to spectate. Many laps to cheer on your swimmer. Plus a great beach to hang out in.
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Winnetka, IL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for August 9.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Winnetka, IL.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
A Long Swim 2026 — Winnetka, IL takes place on August 9, 2026. The race is held in Winnetka, Illinois.
Where is A Long Swim 2026 — Winnetka, IL held?
A Long Swim 2026 — Winnetka, IL is held at 899 Tower Road in Winnetka, Illinois.
Where can I find hotels near A Long Swim 2026 — Winnetka, IL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Winnetka. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
