Parks and the outdoors in Chicago
547 parks, gardens, beaches and walks in and around Chicago.
Ranked with the travel guide's picks and well-known places first. Showing the top 40 of 547.
Parks and the outdoors in Chicago
SeeAttractionLoopThe Skydeck
Once the tallest building in the world, the Sears Tower (officially renamed the Willis Tower) now has to settle for second-highest in the Americas alone, behind New York City's One World Trade Center (and even those are after a semantic battle with Toronto and the CN Tower). The Hancock Observatory (see Near North) has a nicer view of the city, but the Sears Tower offers an incredible view of its own from "The Ledge", which lets visitors walk out in a transparent balcony suspended 1,353 feet above the street. To avoid the crowds, visit after 4PM.
Apr-Sep 9AM-10PM, Oct-Mar 10AM-8PM; open every day of the year, including holidays$22, $11 children; express line tickets $30 · Wheelchair accessible
SeeLoopMillennium Park
Long before it opened, Millennium Park had become notorious for delays and cost-overruns, missing its titular date by a wide margin. However, when it was finally finished in 2004, the biggest shock of all came when it turned out to be quite nice. Aside from plenty of grass and open space, it has modern sculptures in steel and glass, including Chicago's newest must-photo for visitors, The Bean (properly known as Cloud Gate), and the Frank Gehry-designed Pritzker Pavilion for outdoor concerts. Kids will love getting wet in the Crown Fountain (mid-April to the end of summer) at Michigan and Monroe, in which the giant projected faces of Chicago residents spit water into a shallow reflecting pool where everyone is welcome to splash around. Look for tents offering guides to the park near the entrances at Randolph and/or Washington. From mid-November to early March there is an ice skating rink open to the public (weather permitting) on Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison Streets. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink opens at noon on weekdays and 10AM on Saturdays and Sundays with free admission (skate rental is $12, locker rental is $1).
6AM-11PM dailyFree
SeeLoopGrant Park
Right at the center of Chicago, this has been a park space for almost the entire history of the city. Most citywide events and festivals (see below) are held in Grant Park and the Petrillo Bandshell. The centerpiece of the park is Buckingham Fountain (10AM-11PM), which is sometimes accompanied by music and colored lights (8-11PM, May-Sep). There are also tennis courts, softball fields, and a walking trail near the lake. Millennium Park is to the north and the Museum Campus is to the south, so there is a large area to wander.
6AM-11PM dailyEntrance to the park and most events & festivals is generally free, although some concerts do have an admission charge; in that case, admission to other areas of the park is still free · Built 1844 · Heritage listed
SeeHistoric siteLoopAon Center
1136 ft. Built as the Standard Oil Building, the Aon Center is America's sixth tallest building from base to roof, after the Empire State Building in New York City, and fifteenth tallest in the world by architectural detail. It was built in 1972 by architect Edward Stone and initially was faced with marble, but the windy city began to blow the marble off the sides of the building. The entire building had to be refaced with granite — a costly job at one-half of the entire building costs! A walk around the base can be particularly gratifying to admire the uninterrupted views straight up the shear walls and the "musical sculptures.".
DoParkNear SouthSoldier Field
Home of the NFL's Chicago Bears, and from 2020 home (again) to Chicago Fire FC of Major League Soccer. If you'd like to see a Bears game, then you have something in common with many Chicagoans; there's no point in listing ticket prices, because they sell out long before the season starts. On the other hand, if you're a soccer fan, you have a much better chance of getting in for a Fire game, even though that team plans on using only the lower seating bowl for most of its games. The original Soldier Field was built in 1924 to honor veterans of the First World War, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. By 2002, the stadium was in dire need of renovations, and the Bears promised to preserve the majestic colonnades of the old stadium. However, when the renovations were complete, what appeared to be a giant spaceship had landed at midfield. The amenities have improved, and it really is a nice facility... on the inside. On the outside, it's hard to say what it is, other than probably the strangest-looking sports venue in America. (It's not a Historic Place any more, having been stripped of that designation in 2006.) Tours are available during the week, M-F 9AM-5PM, by phone appointment; $15 adults, $10 students, $7 seniors, $4 children.
SeeAttractionNear NorthNavy Pier
Built in 1916, Navy Pier has had many different uses over the years; in 1994, it became a tourist attraction, with more than 50 acres of restaurants, shops, and activities by Lake Michigan. It's an easy place to entertain children. Unless otherwise noted, all of the attractions are open during Navy Pier operating hours. Several buses reach Navy Pier, including #29 State, #65 Grand, #66 Chicago, and #124 Navy Pier Express from the two Metra stations in the Loop.
Open 10AM daily; closes in summer Sun-Thu 10PM, Fri Sat midnight, fall/spring Sun-Thu 8PM, Fri Sat 10PM, winter Mon-Thu 8PM, Fri Sat 10PM, Sun 7PMParking available $19-23 per day · Wheelchair accessible
SeeHistoric siteNear NorthMarina City
No tours available, unless you're cheeky enough to fill out a fake rental application (24 hours in advance), but these iconic twin buildings are worth a photo. (You might recognize them from the cover of Wilcos Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, among many others.) Designed to be "a city within a city," they include a wildly overpriced bowling alley and the House of Blues (see Drink below). If you like Marina City, be sure to visit the South Loop for two more of architect Bertrand Goldbergs corncob structures.
Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM, Sat 10AM-2PM
SeeLincoln Park-Old TownLincoln Park Zoo
Few things in Chicago are finer than the Lincoln Park Zoo. It's world-class, yet admission is free; its winding, expansive grounds have the charm of age, yet its facilities are modern and the animals are healthy, happy, and personable. The brand new Great Ape House is one to see, and the Farm in the Zoo features plenty for kids to do, but everyone has their own favorites (penguins).
Daily 9AM-6PM, winter 9AM-5PM, summer weekends 9AM-7PMFree · Free entry · Wheelchair accessible
SeeHistoric siteLoopAqua
823 ft. The biggest American project ever to be headed by a woman, Jeanne Gang's skyscraper was named the world's best new building by Emporis when it opened in 2009 (four spots ahead of the Trump Tower across the river). Its most distinguishing feature is its series of undulating balconies, which extend as far as twelve feet from the building's walls, giving the building a surreal "rippling" effect. It uses an unforgettable curtain wall that compliments wavy balconies. Though impressive from any angle, it's best viewed relative to the water — either from a boat tour or the riverwalk over in the Near North.
SeeNear SouthJohn G. Shedd Aquarium
Home to a massive collection of marine life from throughout the world, among the very best you'll ever see. The Pacific Northwest-themed Oceanarium features otters, beluga whales, and a panoramic view of Lake Michigan, although you'll need to arrive extremely early for the (free) dolphin show. The terrific new Wild Reef exhibit offers floor-to-ceiling windows for an extraordinary view of a Philippine coral reef environment, complete with dozens of sharks.
Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM, Sat Sun 9AM-6PM; July/August 8AM-6PMAdmission from $37.20 adults and $27.95 children, plus extra for special exhibits · Wheelchair accessible
DoTheatreLoopLyric Opera
Extraordinary productions of major operas, in the impressive Civic Opera House, overlooking the river; local legend has it that the back-story behind business magnate Samuel Insull's decision to build it was the inspiration for the opera scenes in Citizen Kane. Although highly acclaimed today, there was a minor controversy among purists when they began to project English titles above the stage for non-English operas.
From $31 for weekdays and $42 for weekends
SeeHyde ParkGriffin Museum of Science and Industry
No tour of Chicago's museums is complete without a visit to this one. Spend hours upon hours looking at really cool stuff you never even knew you didn't know about. So much to do, so little time. You can return for free the following day if you take your ticket to "Will Call" on the way out on your first day. Great for kids, with many hands-on exhibits and the famous Coal Mine; adults will enjoy the display of the German U-boat 'U-505'. The immense, beautiful building was itself built as part of the White City in 1893, and is the last of the grand buildings left in Hyde Park.
9:30AM-4PM daily; some days until 5:30PM, including most of summer; closed 25 Dec$25.95 adult, $14.95 child
DoBeachNear NorthOak Street Beach
There is plenty of everybody doing everything at Oak Street Beach. Beyond swimming and sun-tanning, it's one of the city's most popular spots for beach volleyball, and there are concrete paths for cycling and skating. (Do not, however, plan to eat lunch at the overpriced restaurant on the beach.) To get here, cross under Lake Shore Drive through a pedestrian underpass. If the crowds are a bit much, walk a short way south to the smaller, lesser-known beach next to Milton Olive Park (named for a local Medal of Honor recipient).
Open during the summer, from dawn to dusk
SeeHistory museumLincoln Park-Old TownChicago History Museum
Chicago Historical Society
A creative urban history museum. Exhibits include The Pioneer, the first railroad locomotive to operate in Chicago, and the bed upon which Abraham Lincoln died; more fun for kids is the Chicago-style Hot Dog showcase, which supplies all the giant plastic ingredients you'll need to turn yourself (or your little brother) into a life-sized hot dog (no ketchup, of course). They also host regular tours of different CTA lines and walking tours of Lincoln Park and Old Town.
Mon-Sat 9:30AM-4:30PM, Sun noon-5PM$14 adults, children 12 and under are free · Wheelchair accessible
SeeLincoln Park-Old TownLincoln Park
The 1.5-mile-long park from which the neighborhood draws its name is dotted with statues of people with ties to Chicago or Germany (like Goethe), and features plenty of paths for running wide-open green space for sports, and even a rowing lagoon to the west.
Open now · closes 11 pm
SeeLocal museumNear NorthBridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
A small museum spread over the five floors of the southwest tower of the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Visitors can see displays on the history of Chicago's famously abused river, and also check out the machinery used for raising the bridge. Tower tours are Fridays and Saturdays at 11AM and 2:30PM beginning in June, book online. The bridge lift times depends on tides, but is usually between 10AM and 1PM on W and Su.
Mid-May to Oct: Wed-Sun 10AM-5PM;$5 - $10 donation recommended, tower tours $15
SeeNear SouthNortherly Island Park
A 40-acre park on the southern portion of Northerly Island that opened in September 2015. The park features a nature trail, pedestrian/bike path, 5 acre lagoon and an excellent view of the Chicago skyline.
6AM-11PMFree
DoBridgeport-ChinatownRate Field
Comiskey Park
Formerly known as New Comiskey Park and later as U.S. Cellular Field and Guaranteed Rate Field, this is the home of the White Sox. The stadium itself was a notorious dud when it opened in 1991, but recent renovations have helped tremendously. If you just want to see a Chicago ball game and don't care who is playing, the stately charm of Wrigley Field might be the better option. But Sox tickets are easier to get, the fans are no less loyal, and the fireworks shows after Saturday night home games (win or lose) are worth the price of admission by themselves. For a nifty ballpark treat not offered at Wrigley, try the elotes, corn-off-the-cob with your choice of salt, butter, cheese, lime, and/or red pepper.
EatHot dog restaurantLincoln Park-Old TownThe Wiener's Circle
The food is only so-so, the prices fair, but what makes this walk-up joint famous is the staff, who have zero patience for customers and the colorful language skills of a bartender at the seediest dockside bar imaginable. A favorite of the late-night crowd, who after a long night of drinking seem to find major entertainment value in being served a massive dose of profane invective with their greasy chili fries and Chicago-style hot dogs.
Sun-Thu 11AM-4AM, Fri Sat 11AM-5AM$3-7
.jpg?width=240 "Photo: Alanscottwalker, CC BY-SA 3.0")
SeeNature museumLincoln Park-Old TownPeggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Carefully positioned within walking distance of the Lincoln Park Zoo in hopes of being parents' second stop while they're in the area, the Notebaert Nature Museum is... okay. Exhibits are geared toward kids and are sometimes hands-on. The only consistent must-see is the butterfly haven.
Mon-Fri 9AM-4:30PM, Sat Sun 10AM-5PMAdults $9, children 3-12 $6, Th free · Entry 9 USD
SeeHistoric siteLoopCrain Communications Building
Diamond Bldg
582 ft. Anyone who has seen Adventures in Babysitting should immediately recognize this 1984 building, as its slanted roof (lit up at night) played a very important role in the film's climax. It's a hard building to miss, as it is just across the street from Millennium Park.
SeeLocal museumLoopChicago Architecture Foundation
Runs numerous river cruises and themed architecture walks covering the Loop and other parts of the city, with offerings suitable for general audiences and people with specific interests. There are some small, informative exhibits inside their 224 S Michigan headquarters and a gift shop. Walking tours are usually $15, $12 for students/seniors.
Sat-Thu 9AM-6:30PM, Fri 9:30AM-7PMWheelchair accessible
SeeLoop311 S Wacker Dr
961 ft. For a time this was the tallest building in the world without an official name, although locals know exactly what to call it: The White Castle Building. It is distinctive for its "crown," which is brightly illuminated at night. If you are nearby, head into its lobby to see its enormous indoor garden and fountain.
SeeLoopMaggie Daley Park
public park, opened in 2014. There is an ice skating ribbon, which is used for rollerblading in summer, a climbing wall and a 3 acre play garden.
Open now · closes 10 pmFree (charges for some attractions)
SeeGardenLincoln Park-Old TownLincoln Park Conservatory
Built 1890-1895, the conservatory is right next to the zoo. Even though they're overshadowed by the animals next door, the plants receive an equal amount of care, and there are usually some eye-popping floral displays in the spring. Volunteer-led tours are sometimes available at no cost.
9AM-5PMFree
SeeHistory museumNear SouthThe Clarke House Museum
Built in 1836, this unassuming little white house is the oldest surviving structure in Chicago. Tours are available through the Glessner House, but it's free to walk around the lovely Women's Park & Gardens that surround it.
Tours Wed-Sun noon & 2PM$10 adults, $9 students/senior, $5 children; add $5 to visit the Glessner House as well. Wednesdays free
DoParkBridgeport-ChinatownArmour Square Park
A good place to play some baseball, soccer, volleyball, basketball, or take a dip in the pool. Occasional events include outdoor movie screenings.
Mon-Fri 9AM-10PM, Sat Sun 9AM-5PM
SeeAttractionLincoln Park-Old TownBiograph Theater
Plays are shown here (see Victory Gardens below), but the theater is still best known as the place where John Dillinger went down in 1934. America's most famous bank robber was leaving after a movie with the Lady in Red when FBI agents opened fire. The owners of the theater have never been keen to play up the connection, but the classic marquee is still there. Reportedly, Dillinger fans hold gatherings outside on July 22, the anniversary of his death.
Built 1915 · Wheelchair accessible
BuyNear NorthThe Merchandise Mart
The Mart strides the barrier between River North and the Loop, with a train station and a zip code all to itself, not to mention a Holiday Inn, several offices, a school, two radio stations, restaurants, and, of course, shopping. It also includes the Chicago Apparel Center. None of the stores are considered major destinations by themselves, but there are frequent trade shows, and many other reasons for business travelers to find themselves at the Mart.
Hours vary by store
SeePublic artBridgeport-ChinatownPing Tom Memorial Park
A riverside park with a Chinese touch, including a riverside Chinese pavilion and a bamboo garden. On a clear day the park has nice southwest side views of the Chicago skyline. The park offers many summertime events from movie screenings to the very popular dragon boat races. Check the Chinatown Chamber of Commerce's website for details.
Free entry
SeeGardenLincoln Park-Old TownOz Park
Young children might enjoy this Wizard of Oz-themed park with statues and playlots.
Free
- DoBeachBronzeville
31st St Beach
Margaret Burroughs Beach
While small, 31st St Beach is one of the nicest places for a swim on the South Side. It's family-friendly, never crowded, and always has stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
Summers: 9AM-9:30PM
.jpg?width=240 "Photo: Unknown author, Public domain")
SeeHyde ParkHyde Park Art Center
HPAC
The oldest alternative art venue in the city is dedicated to the visual arts, usually has several contemporary exhibits running at any given time, and frequent events like artist talks, poetry readings, and music performances.
Mon-Thu 10AM-8PM, Fri Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun noon-5PM
SeeHyde ParkJackson Park
Named for President Andrew Jackson and the site of the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. The most prominent monument remaining from the event is the fully gilded "Statue of the Republic." Other sites include the Osaka Garden on the Wooded Island, a series of lagoons designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and several well-hidden bird watching trails along the water.
6AM-9PM daily. Fieldhouseː Mon-Fri 9AM-9PM, Sat 9AM-5PM
.jpg?width=240 "Photo: David Wilson from Oak Park, Illinois, USA, CC BY 2.0")
DoBeachLincoln Park-Old TownNorth Avenue Beach
Quite possibly the beach volleyball capital of the Midwest. There are semi-pro leagues here, and plenty of nets for amateurs to show up and play. There's also an enclosed roller-hockey rink and plenty of people whizzing past on the wide bike lanes. The North Avenue Beach House is a big boat-shaped structure at the center (look for the red smokestacks) where there are a few food and drink options, occasional live music, and Park District offices. A couple blocks south, toward Oak Street Beach, there are chess tables.
- DoTheatreLincoln Park-Old Town
Park West
This converted movie theater (and former burlesque hall) has some of the best acoustics in the U.S., and it's surprisingly intimate considering it can seat up to a thousand. None other than Ringo Starr has said that Park West is second only to London's Royal Albert Hall. Fans will crowd the stage, but the best seats are toward the back, near the main bar and in the balconies... or call in advance to reserve a booth.
Tickets usually $25-45
.jpg?width=240 "Photo: Mahir256, CC BY-SA 3.0")
DoParkPilsenHarrison Park
If you have kids in tow and they have been patient through the National Museum of Mexican Art (or they need to burn off some energy before going in), you might reward them with some monkey time right next door at Harrison Park, which has a big play-lot with swings, slides, jungle gyms and more.
SeeMemorialLoopVietnam Veterans Memorial
Designed in coordination with the National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum in the Near South, this waterfront plaza features a timeline from the war, a list of Illinois veterans who were killed in action, and a nice vantage point toward a few iconic buildings down the river. After crossing over the river from the Near North, turn and take the stairs down to the lower level.
DoTheatreNear SouthFirstMerit Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
This small peninsula, jutting out into Lake Michigan, was the site of Meigs Airport until Mayor Daley's midnight demolition in 2003; now it's a 7500-seat concert venue for touring rock and hip-hop acts. A new nature park has been built south of the Pavilion.
Box office noon-9PMTickets vary by event, although if you don't mind not being able to see the stage, you'll hear the show just fine anywhere on the lakefront near the Museum Campus
SeePilsenCTA 18th Station
Art and public transit have had a troubled relationship in Chicago, with awful results almost every time the CTA commissions a mural for a station. This one, however, is a gem. Local youth outreach efforts have borne fruit here, creating a walk from the station house to the platforms is nothing short of awe-inspiring (albeit distracting if you're in a hurry to catch a train).
4AM-1AM daily$2 to ride the train, free to view if getting off/back on a train
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Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Chicago (CC BY-SA 4.0). Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Place data from Overture Maps.