Parks Abound in the Windy City
Cities are stressful. It’s just the nature of the beast what with all of those people bumping up against all of that concrete and steel. The constant noise, the bustling crowds, the pulsating energy… some folks thrive on it; most, though, need at least an occasional respite. And every city planner knows that’s where parks come in.
Like all major metropolitan areas, Chicago strives to strike the livability balance demanded its occupants. In doing so, the Chicago Park District manages some 570 parks across more than 7,600 acres. And that’s not all. Also in their charge are 534 baseball fields, 518 playgrounds, 24 miles of lakefront, 25 beaches, 9 harbors, 9 ice skating rinks, 8 skate parks, 6 golf courses, 90 gardens, 50 community gardens, 17 historic lagoons, 11 savannas/woodlands, 5 wetlands, 22 prairies/grasslands, and more.
According to Yelp reviewers, Garfield Park Conservatory wins by a mile. With around 200 reviews, this East Garfield Park gem maintains a five-star standing. The free admission, no doubt, plays a large part in its popularity. First opened in 1908, the Conservatory – one of the world’s largest – has been described as “landscape art under glass.” Over the years, renovations and projects have continued to transform the facility into one of Chicago’s most popular attractions.
In second place on Yelp, the Lilly Pool at Lincoln Park also boasts a five-star rating, though with far fewer votes cast. Tucked between the Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Peggy Norbert Nature Museum, the Lilly Pool is, as one reviewer cited, “for anyone who needs a break from the hassle of the city.” A web of paths meander through the park passing a mini waterfall and stone slabs that provide a resting stop for those in need.
Speaking of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, Yelpers love it pretty well, too, with about 100 of them tallying up a 4.5-star rating. Tropical palms and ancient ferns create a other-worldly experience for visitors. The facility dates back to 1890 when the study and classification of plants and other natural species was a popular hobby. As the Chicago Parks District notes, “People were becoming concerned about the effects of industrialization and conservatories provided ‘tropical paradises’ within cities.” Some idioms hold true across the centuries.
Next up, we have Promontory Point. Quite simply, “At the Point you get it all: the lake, skyline, lots of trees, places to sit, walk… heck, you can even lay down on the grass and sleep if you want.” That’s how one Yelp reviewer summed up this lakefront treasure in Hyde Park that also dates back to around the turn of the 20th century.
Both Grant Park and Millenium Park have to be included here. The former features the ever-beloved Buckingham Fountain, Taste of Chicago, Blues Fest, and Lollapalooza in addition to its gardens and sculptures. Meanwhile, Millenium Park is, at least to one Yelper, “Truly the crown jewel of Chicago to show off it’s best assets.” Another, though, noted, “The Bean is really enough of a reason in itself to go to Millennium. Simple and sophisticated, it kept me entertained for hours. It’s a feeling that must be experienced first-hand.”
With all of these options, and so many more, Chicago residents and visitors alike have plenty of escapes to keep them sane in the urban environment. So, be sure to take advantage of these built-in stress relievers.