Feeling cooped up? Park yourself here

UPDATED MARCH 27, 2020: At this time, in accordance with the state-wide "stay at home" order, the entire Lakefront Trail and adjacent parks, the Chicago Riverwalk, and the 606 Trail have been closed until further notice. Contact sports like basketball and football are also prohibited. All Chicago Park District fieldhouses and playgrounds remain closed, and all programming suspended. The Chicago Parks Foundation encourages you to work with us and our Mayor in support of “Stay Home, Save Lives” by staying home as much as possible. Our parks will be waiting for you. Learn more here.


SPRING IS HERE

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary within Lincoln Park

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary within Lincoln Park

Our calendars may look a bit different these days, but one important event has remained the same - today, March 19th, marks the official start of Spring!

As we do our part spending more isolated time indoors, getting outside into nature for even 20 minutes a day can make a world of difference for our wellbeing. Chicago’s parks are a resource for you now and always.

WIDE OPEN SPACES

The best way to practice your park social distancing is in large, wide-open spaces. Maybe it’s just a walk down the block, or maybe it’s an opportunity to check out a park you wouldn’t normally frequent. Remember to visit solo or only with your immediate household, and to maintain the 6ft. rule throughout your journey.

With over 600 parks throughout Chicago, the parks are here for you. At this time, all outdoor Chicago park spaces remain open to the general public. In accordance with the state-wide “stay-at-home” order, Chicago Park District fieldhouses and playgrounds will be closed to the general public through April 7th. The Chicago Park District will continue to share COVID-19 updates here. Our friends at Openlands have also compiled a list of regional natural areas’ availability here.


See more from the NRPA here.

See more from the NRPA here.

NRPA’S SPECIAL GUIDELINES

The National Recreation and Park Association advises the following to ensure safe social distancing in the parks:

  • Follow the CDC’s guidance on personal hygiene prior to heading outdoors - wash hands and carry hand sanitizer

  • Do NOT use the parks or trails if you are exhibiting symptoms

  • Always maintain at least 6ft. of distance from others throughout your entire walk, bike, or hike

  • Share the space and warn others of your presence as you pass

  • Bring your own water or drinks - do not use public fountains, even if operable

  • Leave no trash of your own behind in order to protect other park users and park staff


Check out some of our most spacious parks and trails:


Promontory Point within Burnham Park

Promontory Point within Burnham Park

Lakefront Trail

Over 18 miles of trail stretching along magnificent Lake Michigan! The following sections are currently closed: bike & pedestrian trails from Fullerton Ave. to North Ave; bike & pedestrian trails from Oak St. to Ohio St.; and the pedestrian trail from 47th St. to 51st St. View map.

606 Bloomingdale Trail Access Points

1801 N Ridgeway Ave
3543 W Bloomingdale Ave
1801 N Albany Ave
2998 Bloomingdale Ave
1801 N California Ave
2558 W Bloomingdale Ave
1801 N Western Ave
1943 W Bloomingdale Ave
1801 N Wood St
1722 N Ashland Ave


 

The Chicago Parks Foundation is here for you as a positive, productive partner during this time. Stay safe, enjoy our parks when you can, and keep in touch via our Seeing Green Blog as we continue to share more park stories throughout the coming weeks!

 


Chicago Parks Foundation