Jesse Owens Park
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
Olympic Legacy
Jesse Owens Park is an 18.4-acre public park located in the South Calumet community of Chicago, Illinois. The park is named in honor of Jesse Owens, the renowned African-American athlete who won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
Initially known as Stony Island Park, it was renamed in the 1980s to honor Jesse Owens, celebrating his significant contributions to athletics and his connection to Chicago, where he briefly served in various civic roles.
Modern Facilities
The park features a fieldhouse that was constructed in 2009. This LEED Gold-certified building includes a gymnasium, fitness center, and multi-purpose rooms.
The fieldhouse is surrounded by a nature garden, and the building itself incorporates green features such as a green roof garden and solar panels.
Outdoor Recreation
Outside, the park offers a variety of recreational facilities. There are four baseball diamonds and a multi-purpose field that can be used for various sports activities.
The park also includes tennis courts and an Olympic-themed playground, reflecting its namesake's athletic achievements. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park provides five picnic groves.
Community Programs
Jesse Owens Park caters to diverse community needs with its range of programs. These include after-school activities, seasonal sports, and fitness classes for various age groups from youth to seniors.
The park also offers Special Recreation programs for youth, teens, and adults. During summer, a popular six-week day camp is held for local youth.
Historical Context
The park's history dates back to the post-World War II era when it was established to meet the recreational needs of the growing Calumet Heights neighborhood.
