Lake Michigan is the second largest of the Great Lakes, and it’s the only one that’s located entirely within the territory of the United States. Of course, in Illinois, it’s known as one of the main focal points of Chicago. And while there’s never a bad time to gaze at this gorgeous body of water, if you’ve ever seen a sunrise here, you know it’s an especially magical time.

Chicago has 26 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan.
Annaline / TripAdvisor
The lake adds a calming beauty to the bustling city.
This massive lake has a surface area of 22,404 square miles, bordering all of Chicago's East side.
globtrotteuse / TripAdvisor
Millenium Park is definitely the most popular lakeside recreation area, but it's visible from all over the city.
If you can wake up early enough to catch the sunrise over the lake, you won't regret it.
Benjamin Lipsman / Flickr
It's absolutely breathtaking, bathing the city in a soothing, warm glow.

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Photographers love coming to the lakeshore and capturing the area at sunrise.
Jim Sorbie / Flickr
In fact, when you ask locals the best spot in the city for catching a sunrise, they'll typically tell you it's anywhere on the East side.
Many a jogger has woken up for a morning workout and been captivated by the sight of the sunrise.
R Boed / Flickr
The beauty is so addictive, it might turn you into a morning person.
In the 19th century, Lake Michigan played a major role in the development of Chicago (and the entire Midwest).
renee_mcgurk / Flickr
Lake Michigan is still used as a major mode of transport for bulk goods.
Set your alarm. Then come see what the early morning light does for this stunning city.
R Boed / Flickr
You can always go back to bed if you're not a morning person, but we're willing to bet the gorgeous Lake Michigan sunrise will leave you refreshed and ready to start the day.

Have you ever seen a Lake Michigan sunrise? If not, there’s no time like the present.

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