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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the Loop

Parks

A patch of green that offers a real escape from the concrete instead of just a place to stand between buildings.

Based on 395 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Grant Park image 1
Grant Park image 2
Grant Park image 3
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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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
Roosevelt (Theodore) Park image 1

Green park blends calisthenics bars and tennis courts with pickleball facilities and a dog-friendly area. Quiet space offers downtown views and a playground for kids. Weekends bring lively courts and active players.

Green space offers plenty of trees for hammocks and a dog-friendly area. Two tennis courts and calisthenics workout bars provide spots for exercise, while a playground serves kids. The park sits quietly among buildings with a good downtown view.

People are saying

"You'll find tennis and pickleball courts in these parks."

"It's dog friendly with a designated area for them."

Good to know

1

The park gets busy on weekends, especially the tennis courts.

2

Roosevelt Park is dog friendly with a designated area for dogs.

3

There are two tennis courts and pickleball courts available.

05
Butler Field image 1
Athletic field

Spacious open field with wide lawns offers a clean spot for outdoor activities and festivals. Central fountain adds charm while crowds gather for lively events. Clear views of the Chicago skyline create a relaxing, breathable atmosphere perfect for music and overflow events.

An open athletic field sits within a larger park, serving as a space for overflow events and music festivals. The area stays clean and offers a simple, well-placed spot for outdoor activities.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great views of the Chicago skyline."

"I loved the great views of the Chicago skyline."

"The park offers beautiful views of the Chicago skyline."

Good to know

1

Expect large crowds during major events and festivals at Butler Field.

2

Vendors from across the country offer a variety of food and goods.

3

Butler Field is easily accessible from downtown Chicago.

06
Chicago Riverwalk - West End image 1

Riverwalk blends green space with city views, offering Adirondack chairs for rest and close water access to watch boats. It balances a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere with scenic architecture, making it perfect for walking and running.

A small park offers a green space shielded from the wind. Adirondack chairs provide seating surrounded by tall buildings.

People are saying

"This Riverwalk section is a relaxing spot with beautiful city views."

"You can admire the city's architecture and historic buildings from the Riverwalk."

"I loved the green space and views of downtown buildings."

Good to know

1

The Riverwalk has plenty of places to eat and public restrooms available.

2

Urban Kayaks offers guided tours and kayak rentals along the Riverwalk.

3

Expect a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful views of iconic skyscrapers.

07
Great Lawn image 1
City park

Meticulously maintained green space offers Great Lawn for relaxation and outdoor activities. Talented musicians rehearse here, supported by high-quality sound systems and impressive acoustics. Visitors enjoy clean facilities and unobstructed Chicago skyline views.

The park features a Great Lawn that serves as a vital green space for relaxation and outdoor activities. It hosts rehearsals by talented musicians and offers high-quality audio for movies, making it a lively spot for events and walks.

People are saying

"The park's lawn is a vital green space for relaxing and outdoor activities."

Good to know

1

Outside food and drink are allowed in the park.

2

The sound system in the concert area is impressive, enhancing the audio experience.

3

The park is clean and well taken care of, providing a pleasant environment.

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