Jesse Owens Park

A Golden Heritage

Situated in Chicago's South Calumet community, Jesse Owens Park spans a generous 18.4 acres of green space and recreational facilities. Named after Jesse Owens, the legendary athlete who stunned the world by winning four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, this park carries a powerful legacy.

The space wasn't always known by this name - originally called Stony Island Park, it was renamed in the 1980s to honor Owens, who had meaningful connections to Chicago where he worked in various civic roles after his athletic career.

Eco-Friendly Fieldhouse

The heart of the park is its relatively new fieldhouse, built in 2009. This isn't just any community building - it's a LEED Gold-certified structure that houses a gymnasium, fitness center, and versatile multi-purpose rooms.

What makes this fieldhouse special is its commitment to sustainability. Surrounded by a nature garden, the building features a green roof garden and solar panels that minimize its environmental footprint. You can find the facilities consistently clean and well-kept, with staff members who are known for being helpful and friendly.

Sports and Recreation Spaces

Step outside the fieldhouse and you'll discover plenty of options for active play. The park features four baseball diamonds and a multi-purpose field that accommodates various sports activities.

Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy the park's tennis courts, while families with children gravitate toward the Olympic-themed playground - a fitting tribute to the park's namesake. Looking to host a gathering? The park offers five picnic groves that you can reserve through the park manager for family reunions, BBQs, or community events.

Programs for Everyone

Jesse Owens Park offers inclusive programming for the community. The calendar is filled with after-school activities, seasonal sports leagues, and fitness classes designed for all age groups from youngsters to seniors.

The park offers Special Recreation programs created specifically for youth, teens, and adults with intellectual disabilities. When summer rolls around, local kids flock to the popular six-week day camp - a neighborhood tradition that keeps the park buzzing with energy.

Everyday Comforts

It's often the basics that make a park visit pleasant, and Jesse Owens Park doesn't disappoint. The restrooms are regularly maintained and stocked - a small but significant detail for any public space.

Dog owners appreciate the generous grassy areas where their four-legged friends can stretch their legs. Parents will be relieved to know that playground areas are kept clean for safe play, making this a genuinely kid-friendly destination.

Neighborhood Roots

The park's story begins in the post-World War II era when it was established to serve the recreational needs of the growing Calumet Heights neighborhood - a purpose it continues to fulfill today.