Loyola Park

Lakeside Escape

Stretching across 21.5 acres of prime Chicago shoreline, Loyola Park gives you front-row access to the majestic Lake Michigan. This neighborhood green space has a variety of options, whether you're looking to lounge by the water or get active with outdoor activities. A notable feature is the nearly two-thirds of a mile of walking trails that hug the shoreline, good for morning strolls or sunset walks.

The beach is popular in summer when lifeguards are on duty. While you won't find distance swimming here, water enthusiasts can access the Lake Michigan Water Trail for kayaking and canoeing adventures. The clean, soft sand makes for pleasant walking, and early risers can enjoy beautiful sunrise views over the lake.

Natural Beauty

The park features a unique natural dune habitat that attracts local birds and birdwatchers alike. Established back in 1917 by the North Shore Park District before joining the Chicago Park District in 1934, this space has been serving the community for over a century.

The pier offers good lake panoramas, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and distant views of Chicago's skyline. There's also a small lighthouse that adds maritime character to the lakefront setting.

Get Active

The heart of community activities happens in the large fieldhouse, home to two gymnasiums, a woodshop, boxing center, and rentable clubrooms for your next gathering. Families with little ones will appreciate the cute little library tucked inside - meant for a reading break.

Sports enthusiasts have plenty of options with two baseball diamonds (one lit for evening games), a basketball court, sand volleyball courts, and four tennis courts spread across the grounds.

Kids gravitate toward the modern, colorful playground with its engineered wood fiber surface that's both fun and safe. Its beach-adjacent location is convenient - kids can play while sandy feet dry before heading home. For the fitness-minded, there's outdoor exercise equipment with a view of the lake while you exercise.

Practical Info

You'll come across clean restrooms serviced daily, but be prepared for a short walk depending on where you're hanging out in the park. Parking is straightforward with a large parking lot next to the basketball courts, plus metered street parking in the surrounding area.

Summer evenings bring a small café to life, great for grabbing a bite after a day of play. Occasionally, the park transforms into an outdoor cinema with movie screenings under the stars. The spacious grassy areas throughout make ideal spots for setting up a picnic, firing up a barbecue, or simply lounging with a good book.

Community Connection

Loyola Park truly shines as a community hub with year-round events. The Artists of the Wall Festival draws crowds every Father's Day weekend, while day camps keep kids busy during school breaks. The park's program roster includes everything from craft workshops to ballet classes, ensuring there's always something new to try.

Inclusive programming extends to special recreation activities for individuals with disabilities. Whether you want a peaceful beach day, a scenic walk, a morning swim in the lake, or a chance to connect with neighbors, Loyola Park is a well-established part of Chicago's recreational spaces.