What makes a park fantastic? Soft grounds (because who likes getting wood chips stuck in their shoes?), plenty of structures for climbing, memorable features and sufficient parking. Here are five favorites in beautiful Lakeview that are not to be missed!
Weisman Park
901 W. Oakdale Ave.
During the summer, we would always head here for the splash pad but now that it’s fall, we still visit for the awesome equipment. Climb up to a platform where you can ring bells, then take a slide to get back down. A mini train is always a highlight, as is the giant chalkboard with big pieces of chalk for leaving your mark. With numerous table-benches surrounding the grounds, this park also makes for the perfect outdoor birthday party spot.
Chi Che Wang Park
1762 W. Diversey Pkwy
Lots of playground equipment including two large slides, a huge field for impromptu soccer games and oversized animal statues that kids love to climb on, make this one of our favorite locations. It’s always spotless and there is ample parking. Bonus–I love that this park is around the corner from Starbucks–the perfect incentive for an afternoon mommy pick-me-up on the way to the park.
Fellger Playlot Park
2000 W. Belmont Ave.
Plenty of swings, slides, a mini-clubhouse and a long train make this park a can’t miss! My son always loves rocking on the airplane and car bouncy or taking a turn on the see-saw. The park also has a splash pad area open when it’s warm outside. If you’re craving something sweet, Black Dog Gelato is just across the street.
Margaret Donahue Park
1230 W. School St.
The newest park of the bunch opened over the summer and was an instant hit. During the summer months, kids love the elaborate splash pad and in-ground water table, but there’s still plenty to do here during chillier days. A major playground installation, complete with mock-up of the Hancock and Willis towers, sits on hilly grounds alongside a giant Cubs-themed turf field. This is 21,000 square feet of pure fun!
South Lakeview Playground Park
1302 W. Wolfram
My son has coined this park “blue park” for the bright blue playground equipment that sits on springy ground. This park has smaller climbers for your little ones and larger equipment for the older kids. A giant basketball court sits next to the playground if you feel like shooting some hoops. There are also bench-tables close by if you pack a picnic.
