Clarendon Park

A Century of Community Service

Imagine taking a dip in Lake Michigan back in 1916 at what was then the Clarendon Municipal Beach. This wasn't just any bathing spot - it featured impressive brick buildings, separate locker areas for men and women, and even a dedicated children's playroom. Pretty fancy for the early 20th century!

Fast forward to the late 1930s, and things changed quite a bit. When Lincoln Park got its northward expansion to Foster Avenue, Clarendon lost its lakefront access. Instead of shutting down, though, the space transformed into a community center complete with gymnasiums, club rooms, a playground, and an athletic field. Talk about making lemonade from lemons!

Through the Decades

The Chicago Park District officially took over Clarendon Park in 1957, and it's seen its fair share of changes since then.

The 1970s brought a major facelift, but not all changes were improvements by today's standards - the distinctive tile roof and towers disappeared during the 1972 renovation. More recent updates have focused on practical matters: making sure everyone can access the facilities regardless of ability, and upgrading the ball fields and playground for modern use.

New Chapter Unfolding

If you've visited recently, you might have noticed some construction. That's because Clarendon Park is in the midst of a $13 million renovation project that kicked off in September 2022. This isn't just a touch-up - it's addressing some serious structural issues that have developed over time.

When it reopens in spring 2025, you can look forward to better accessibility features, a renovated gym and dance studio, improved outdoor spaces, and a completely remodeled lobby. Worth the wait? Time will tell!

Finding Your Way

Spread across 12.64 acres in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood, Clarendon Park sits in a pretty convenient spot - just two blocks east of Sheridan Road, two blocks south of Wilson Avenue, and a stone's throw west of Lake Shore Drive.

Come Out and Play

Even during renovations, the outdoor spaces offer something for almost everyone. Sports enthusiasts can make use of the baseball fields, basketball courts, soccer fields, softball fields, tennis courts, and pickleball courts. Looking to work up a sweat? Check out the outdoor fitness equipment dotted around the grounds.

Families will appreciate the playground, while the splash pad becomes a summer favorite when temperatures rise. Green thumbs might enjoy the community gardens, and there's even a bocce court (though it might need a bit of TLC at times).

Dog owners, you're in luck - a designated dog-friendly area gives your furry friends space to run and socialize. And yes, there are restroom facilities available when nature calls.

Get Involved

Clarendon Park isn't just about the facilities - it's about bringing people together through programs for all ages. Kids can jump into basketball, cheerleading, football, karate, and seasonal sports. The summer day camp runs for six weeks and tends to fill up quickly, so plan ahead!

Teens haven't been forgotten - basketball, seasonal sports, and the Teen Leadership Club during summer provide options for the older kids. Adults can stay active with basketball, dodgeball, soccer, and volleyball programs.

The park also hosts community gatherings year-round, including the annual Easter Egg Hunt and outdoor movie screenings when weather permits. Keep an eye on the park district calendar for upcoming events!