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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Chicago

Parks

You need a green space that offers a genuine break from the concrete.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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Updated April 2026
01
Lincoln Park image 1
Lincoln Park image 2
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City park

Large urban park offers free zoo admission and lush greenery along Lake Michigan. Visitors enjoy spacious green areas for walking and biking plus breathtaking city views. Calm paths and recreational spots create a peaceful city escape.

A large, waterfront park with spacious green areas offers great spots for walking, running, and biking. It features formal and informal gardens, statues, a free zoo, and a cool merry-go-round, all with nice skyline views.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with great green space and lovely views."

"You get a nice view of the city skyline."

"I found the fun activities here to be free and enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The farmers market operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays with diverse vendors.

2

Zoo Lights is a family-friendly Christmas event at Lincoln Park Zoo.

3

Fullmoonfirejam occurs every full moon from June to September at 7 PM.

02
Grant Park image 1
City park

Urban park features panoramic city views and a huge central fountain. It blends peaceful lakeshore spots with lively areas like a skatepark and playground. Frequent music festivals create a vibrant yet calm atmosphere for all visitors.

A beautiful public park with well-maintained grounds and a welcoming atmosphere. It hosts music festivals and events, offers peaceful spots for families and friends, and provides clean, safe spaces to walk and relax.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, spacious park with great walking trails."

"I loved the nice view of the skyline and lake."

"I found the festivals and concerts here to be a ton of fun."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $30 per day near Grant Park.

2

Public restrooms are not available in Grant Park.

3

Consider using Uber or bus transportation when visiting Grant Park.

03
Ping Tom Memorial Park image 1

Park offers stunning skyline views and a peaceful riverside escape with a well-maintained playground and kayak rentals. Families enjoy the quiet open spaces while outdoor enthusiasts launch kayaks or take water taxis to downtown.

Offers stunning skyline views and a peaceful riverside escape with plenty of benches and shade. Features a Chinese-style pagoda, a playground for kids, and kayak rentals for outdoor activities.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful spot with a nice view of the city skyline."

"It's a peaceful, scenic riverfront spot that feels like a hidden retreat."

"This park is a peaceful, scenic escape with striking skyline views."

Good to know

1

Ping Tom Memorial Park hosts concerts under the bridge on weekends.

2

The park features an annual dragon boat race along the river.

3

Free rave events occur regularly in the park.

04
Maggie Daley Park Play Garden image 1

Huge playground features multiple sections with huge slides and a splash pad for varied play. Bright and inviting, it offers shaded spots for rest and stays clean and secure with fencing and staff. Kids under 5 feet tall enjoy safe, active fun here.

Huge playground offers many options for climbing, sliding, and playing across various themed 'rooms'. It stays clean, safe, and secure with fencing and security personnel, making it great for kids of all ages under 5 feet tall.

People are saying

"The playground has so many fun things to do for all ages."

"This place has so many fun activities, you'll wish you were a kid again."

"The playground here is amazing with so many fun things to do."

Good to know

1

The park is totally free to enter.

2

Bring water as it can get hot during the day.

3

Expect mosquitoes in the afternoon; bug spray is recommended.

05
Big Marsh Park image 1

Post-industrial landscape meets multi-use trails for biking, hiking, and skating. Family-friendly with playgrounds and picnic areas offers a peaceful escape. Well-maintained park features MTB, BMX, pump, and jump tracks plus bike rentals and clean restrooms.

A huge park with multi-faceted bike trails including MTB, BMX, pump, and jump tracks. It offers paved and unpaved trails, picnic areas, bike rentals, and good restrooms, all well-maintained by dedicated volunteers.

People are saying

"These parks have awesome bike trails for all skill levels."

"The views here are beautiful."

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming, making it a truly relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $8 for two hours, so plan accordingly.

2

Big Marsh Park has various trails suitable for both beginners and experts.

3

The park is well-maintained with paved and unpaved paths.

06
Weisman Park image 1
Playground

Playground shines with fun water features and a train play structure that kids love. Safe rubber ground suits toddlers well, while shaded seating offers comfort for adults. Quiet neighborhood vibe makes it perfect for families to relax and play.

A quiet corner park with clean playground equipment and mostly rubber ground makes it safe for toddlers. It features a train play structure and fun water features, attracting friendly families and a neighborhood vibe.

People are saying

"It's a really kid-friendly park, great for toddlers and younger children."

"This park is great for toddlers with a safe playground."

"This playground has a separate play area for very small children."

Good to know

1

Weisman Park is a safe environment for toddlers and young children.

2

The park features playground equipment suitable for both younger and older kids.

3

There is a spray and play area available during spring and summer months.

07
Welles Park Playground image 1

Green grass space invites picnics and bocce, while a natural habitat area offers kids exploration. Play zones feature water sprinklers and climbing structures for ages 3+, plus two slides and many swings. An indoor pool and shaded benches provide spots to relax.

A natural habitat area offers kids a spot to explore. The playground is decent in size but takes up a small part of the park. An indoor pool is also available.

People are saying

"This park has a great playground with slides and sprinklers."

"It's pretty kid friendly with climbing structures and swings."

"The playground has slides and swings for kids."

Good to know

1

The rubber ground surface needs maintenance to prevent tripping hazards.

2

Climbing structures are suitable for kids aged 3 and above.

3

There are two slides and numerous swings available for play.

08
Horner Park Playground image 1

Huge playground with quality materials offers slides, swings, and a zipline. Shade trees and clean walking paths create a safe, pleasant space. Crowds enjoy multiple play areas and nearby nature spots despite some off-leash dogs.

A huge playground with quality materials and plenty of shade trees stands out here. Clean walking and bike paths add to the park's appeal, though off-leash dogs roaming around can affect safety and enjoyment.

People are saying

"I loved the playground; it's huge and has lots of play areas."

"I found the playground to be really great and huge."

"I found the playground here to be really kid friendly."

Good to know

1

The fieldhouse provides access to restrooms during park hours.

2

The park features plenty of shade trees for hot days.

3

Expect the playground to be crowded, especially on weekends.

09
Seneca Park image 1
City park

City park features two play areas with well-maintained equipment for toddlers and older kids. Fenced and well-lit, it offers a safe, colorful space with a wooded walkway and benches for relaxing. Sounds of nearby emergency vehicles add to the busy urban vibe.

A clean, well-maintained playground offers two play areas for different age groups, making it great for toddlers and kids. The park is fenced and well-lit, providing a safe, colorful space with a wooded walkway and benches for relaxing.

People are saying

"This playground is outstanding and Kid Friendly for all ages."

"The playground has novel equipment for little and big kids."

"The playground here is fantastic for kids of all ages."

Good to know

1

The park has two play areas for different age groups.

2

There is a public bathroom right in front of the park.

3

The park is fenced in, so kids are safe from the street.

10
Milton Lee Olive Park image 1

City park blends spectacular skyline views with a peaceful atmosphere by the lake. It stays quiet and less crowded, perfect for relaxing, photography, and dog-friendly walks. Natural greenery meets urban charm near popular city spots.

Offers stunning skyline views and a picturesque setting by the lake. The park is clean, quiet, and dog friendly, making it great for walks and photo sessions.

People are saying

"The skyline views here are spectacular."

"This Meditation Spot offers spectacular views of the Chicago skyline."

"The park offers spectacular skyline views."

Good to know

1

The park offers amazing views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

2

Pets are welcome, making it a dog-friendly space.

3

The park has a playground and picnic area for family activities.

11
Skinner (Mark) Park image 1

Spacious city park shines with lush green spaces and a reptile-themed playground that delights kids. Sports lovers enjoy basketball courts and tennis, while dog owners appreciate the dedicated dog park. Shaded spots invite families to relax and gather.

Lush green spaces and well-maintained facilities create a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. The park offers a reptile-themed playground with equipment for all ages, plus basketball courts, tennis, picnic spots, and a dedicated dog park.

People are saying

"It's a fun, kid-friendly park with a great playground."

"It's a great dog friendly park with a dedicated dog playground."

"I found the park to be beautiful and nice looking."

Good to know

1

The park features free basketball courts available to the public.

2

Tennis courts can be booked in advance for $15.

3

Restrooms are usually locked but were open during the recent event.

12
Lake Shore Park image 1

City park blends lakefront views with tennis courts and a running track. Families enjoy the children's playground and peaceful green space. Active visitors find outdoor exercise equipment and well-kept paths perfect for jogging or walking dogs.

A well-maintained park with a great running and walking track offers tennis courts, soccer fields, and a children's playground. It features thoughtfully placed amenities and peaceful surroundings, making it ideal for jogging, walking dogs, or relaxing outdoors.

People are saying

"It's so quiet and clean, perfect for relaxing outdoors."

"It's a wonderful place to take your dog for some fetch."

"I found the park to be clean and well-maintained."

Good to know

1

During summer nights, the park offers free movies and concerts.

2

The park has a great running and walking track.

3

There are fenced playgrounds for kids with swings and climbing bars.

13
Donahue (Margaret) Park image 1

Playground offers a safe fenced area perfect for toddlers with rubber surfacing and a large splash pad. Shaded picnic spots provide space for wheelchairs and strollers, blending a quiet neighborhood vibe with lively weekend fun.

Playground features a rubber surfacing and a variety of play structures that suit toddlers and new walkers. It is fully fenced with one entrance, includes a big splash pad, and offers shaded picnic areas with space for wheelchairs and strollers.

People are saying

"The playground here is amazing with tons of fun activities for kids."

"It's a really fun playground with lots of activities for kids."

"It's so fun here with the water features and playground for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a large playground suitable for children aged 1 to 6.

2

There is a water area that operates in summer for kids to enjoy.

3

The park has shaded tables with accessible space for wheelchairs and strollers.

14
Norwood Park image 1
City park

City park shines with a clean dog park for pet socializing and a rollerblading skatepark for active fun. Shaded by old trees, it offers calm and cool spots. Indoor classes and a senior center add to its diverse appeal.

A clean dog park offers a welcoming space for dog socialization. The park features a playground for little kids, a hockey rink in winter, and a rollerblading skatepark on the west side.

People are saying

"I love visiting the dog park here to make new friends."

"It's so Dog Friendly, my dogs love the pools and making friends."

Good to know

1

Norwood Park offers indoor classes and activities for seniors.

2

The park features a fitness center available to the public.

3

The dog park is well-maintained and has a friendly atmosphere.

15
Gladstone (William) Park image 1

Small city park features toddler-friendly playgrounds with double slides and low heights. Walking paths and open spaces offer safe exploration and plenty of room to run. Clean, quiet, and perfect for neighborhood families.

Small playground offers toddler-friendly equipment with low heights and double slides. Plenty of walking paths and open space provide room for kids to run and explore safely.

People are saying

"The park playground equipment is perfect for toddlers."

"The playground equipment is perfect for toddlers and little ones."

Good to know

1

The park is primarily for local residents and not a tourist destination.

2

The park is well-maintained and kept very clean.

3

Playground equipment is designed for toddlers, ensuring safety.

16
Bauler (Mathias) Park image 1

Park offers advanced climbing for kids 5+, with shaded picnic tables under trees. Open pavement suits scooters and bikes, while Pickleball courts add fun but have limited hours. Steep slide and wood chip floors ensure safe play.

Beautiful park with a playground suited for children aged 5 and older due to some advanced climbing equipment. Picnic tables sit under shaded trees, and Pickleball lines mark part of the area.

People are saying

"This park has a great open pavement area for scooters and balls."

"I loved the swings at the playground."

"The swings are so fun and Kid Friendly!"

Good to know

1

The park has no bathrooms available for visitors.

2

Pickleball courts have restricted usage times.

3

The playground is mainly safe for children aged 5 and older.

17
Winnemac Park image 1
City park

Massive green spaces with wildflower-lined paths invite peaceful walks and picnics. New sports courts and multiple fields offer active play for all ages. Quiet areas support bird watching, blending nature with lively outdoor fun.

Huge green spaces offer plenty of room for picnics, walking paths, and playgrounds. Natural wildflower areas and tree-lined paths create a peaceful, nature-like vibe away from the city.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful with natural wildflower areas and walking paths."

"It's a great dog friendly park with plenty of space to run."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a fun playground."

Good to know

1

Bikram Yoga classes are held at Winnemac Park every Sunday morning.

2

There is limited parking available near the park, especially during busy times.

3

The park lacks public restrooms, so plan accordingly.

18
Arrigo (Victor) Park image 1

City park blends lush greenery with paved asphalt paths perfect for walking and biking. Calm, peaceful vibe welcomes all visitors. Open fields and pet-friendly water stations support sports and dog play.

Abundant greenery and clean, paved paths make it great for walking, jogging, biking, and relaxing. The park is pet friendly with water stations for dogs and cats, plus open fields for sports and play.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, green park, really well-kept."

"It's dog friendly with good space for them to play."

"I enjoyed the nice view of the skyline and Willis Tower."

Good to know

1

Arrigo (Victor) Park is pet friendly, making it great for dog owners.

2

There are no public restrooms or facilities available in the park.

3

Parking is available off street near the park.

19
Harold Washington Park image 1

City park shines with large playground and lakeside trail for outdoor fun. Families enjoy tennis courts and quiet, shady walks under many trees. Perfect spot for kids and sports lovers alike.

A lakeside park with a large playground and plenty of playground equipment for kids of all ages. It offers spaces for tennis, barbecues, football, badminton, and chess, making it very family friendly and suitable for outdoor activities.

People are saying

"It's a great place for kids with a large playground."

"It's a great park with a large playground for kids."

"It's a large, quiet, shady, fenced-in playground."

Good to know

1

There is no parking available at the park, but street parking is nearby.

2

The nearest public transportation is the Green Line at 51st Street station.

3

The park is open from 6am to 11pm daily.

20
Ronan (George) Park image 1

City park offers large open spaces perfect for sports and play, with a playground featuring slides and seesaws. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere suits relaxing walks and family time. Surrounded by trees, it provides shaded areas and nature for calm moments.

Huge and spacious with large open spaces for sports and play, the park offers a peaceful environment surrounded by trees. It features a playground with slides and seesaws, shaded areas, and a trail, making it suitable for family moments and relaxation.

People are saying

"I loved the peaceful environment of the parks."

"It's spacious and great for kids to have fun."

Good to know

1

The park has plenty of open space, benches, and picnic tables.

2

There are shaded areas with a playground for children.

3

The park features a trail suitable for walking and nature exploration.

21
Lake Shore Playground image 1

Park offers tennis courts and a jogging track for active visitors. Kids enjoy the children's playground while dogs roam freely on the grass areas. Quiet and peaceful, it fits well between tall buildings, making it great for families and pet owners.

A jogging track circles the park, and tennis courts are available with online scheduling. A children's playground nearby makes it a good spot for families and active visitors.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park, lovely and suitable for everyone."

"It's a nice park for walking the dog or jogging."

Good to know

1

Lake Shore Playground features a jogging track around the park's edge.

2

Tennis courts are available; check online for scheduling games.

3

The park has a designated area for dogs and picnics.

22
Stanton (Edwin) Park image 1

City park features a large playground and two baseball diamonds for active fun. Clean, bright locker rooms with curtained shower stalls add comfort. Coaches lead caring basketball and swim classes in a safe, well-maintained space, though dim lighting limits evening activities.

A large playground and clean, bright locker rooms stand out here. Coaches provide caring yet challenging basketball and swim classes in a safe, well-maintained environment.

People are saying

"The coaches at these parks are caring yet challenging."

"This place is so kid friendly; Coach Alex knew all the kids' names."

"The staff here make the fun activities so caring and challenging."

Good to know

1

Expect limited visibility after 7:30 PM due to poor lighting.

2

Stay in groups if visiting after dark for safety.

3

The bathrooms are well-maintained and clean.

23
The Green at 320 Park image 1

Urban green space offers a quiet oasis with extensive lawn perfect for walking and playing. Weekly live music and a farmers market create a lively yet peaceful vibe. Diverse seating invites relaxation and enjoying free yoga and movies.

Green grass and a relaxing setting create a natural spot in the city. Free programming includes yoga, movies, and a farmers market. The park hosts fun public events and offers space for walking, playing, and reading.

People are saying

"I loved the farmers market and the fresh fruit vendors."

"I enjoyed the free outdoor events like movies and yoga."

"It's a great park for relaxing and meeting friends."

Good to know

1

The Green hosts a farmers market every Tuesday from 3pm to 7pm.

2

Free events include live music, open mics, and fitness classes throughout the week.

3

Trivia night occurs every Thursday at 7pm with no entry fee.

24
Lakefront Park image 1

Park offers wide paths perfect for walking, jogging, and biking with beautiful lake views and a peaceful atmosphere. It provides a refreshing escape near downtown with open spaces and calm despite crowds.

Beautiful views of the lake and city skyline stretch alongside a well-kept, peaceful park. Paths suit walking, jogging, or biking, offering a clean, luxurious walking area close to downtown.

People are saying

"The nice view of the lake and city skyline is beautiful."

"I found it to be a peaceful place to relax and get away from the noise."

"The park's views of the lake and city are beautiful."

Good to know

1

The park can get busy on nice days, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Cyclists have their own path, making it safe for walkers.

3

The park is a short walk from downtown, easily accessible.

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