Grant 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.

• Built 1844
• Heritage listed

• history
• outdoors
• museum

Address

On the east side of Michigan Ave between Lake Shore Dr and Columbus Dr

Hours

6AM-11PM daily

Price

Entrance 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

Phone

(312) 742-3918

Website

chicagoparkdistrict.com (opens in a new tab)