Maggie Daley Park in Chicago, IL, is an urban oasis in the heart of Chicago. Nestled among skyscrapers – and with a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan and the city’s magnificent skyline – the scenic 22-acre park honors the city’s beloved late mayor, Richard M. Daley. The park offers activities, attractions, and amenities that combine urban accessibility with natural beauty, creating a unique and vibrant space for citizens and tourists to explore. Learn information about Chicago, IL.
Maggie Daley Park officially opened to the public in December 2014 after more than a decade of planning, fundraising, and construction. Funded largely by private donations, the park’s design combines elements of nature with those of traditional park approaches and features four unique areas: the playground, Sports Courts, ice ribbon, and the Field House. A vast array of amenities, activities, festivals, and events make Maggie Daley Park a destination for all ages, all year round. Discover facts about The Importance of the Millennium Monument in Chicago, IL.
The Playground in Maggie Daley Park is designed for kids of all ages and abilities. The imaginative and interactive playground elements have something to challenge, command and captivate every young explorer. Structures and attractions include a 25-foot tall Climbing Dome and Vertigo Tunnel that run through the center of the playground; vast play structures with elevated platforms, bridges, slides, and climbers to get around; and the giant 13.5-foot Slide Crater, which invites kids of all ages to climb up, slide down and repeat over and over again.
In addition to the playground, the Sports Courts are ideal for budding athletes. With courts for basketball, beach volleyball, and bocce, Maggie Daley Park is a great place to practice individual skills or team sports in a fun, outdoor environment. The courts also host numerous events and tournaments throughout the year. The park also offers a Walking Path that loops around the park and provides a tranquil spot for taking a leisurely stroll with friends or family. For visitors looking to stay active in the winter months, the Maggie Daley Park Ice Ribbon is the perfect place. This cutting-edge frozen skating rink replaces a traditional round rink surface with a serpentine-shaped surface that mimics the Chicago River. The ribbon winds around the playground area and is designed with four separate areas with different speeds and experiences. The Ribbon section also has an outdoor fire pit for keeping warm.
The Field House, located at the western end of the park, is the cornerstone of Maggie Daley Park. This multipurpose facility allows visitors to take part in recreational and educational activities year-round. A variety of classes, for both adults and kids, happen daily, with the Field House’s energy and excitement reaching their peak during summer when it plays host to several camps and activities. A café, fitness center, game room, and café are also located inside the Field House.
Maggie Daley Park is also a mecca for special events throughout the year. Farmers’ markets, 5k runs, movie screenings, and other special events mark the park’s busy calendar. The park also hosts some of the most popular music festivals and concerts of the year; these events attract some of the biggest names in music, and the park’s vast expanse of lush green lawns offers a comfortable setting to enjoy their performances. The park also offers amazing skyline views and countless opportunities for people to connect with each other and the natural world.
