Mount Greenwood Park

Park Overview

Located in Chicago's southwest side, Mount Greenwood Park spans a generous 52.53 acres in the heart of the Mount Greenwood neighborhood. This completely gated park is popular with families looking for a secure place where kids can play freely. If you have little ones with special needs, you'll appreciate the thoughtful safety features around the grounds.

Sports Facilities

For those who enjoy staying active, the park offers numerous options. With eleven baseball fields dotting the landscape and several tennis courts available, there's no shortage of space to get your game on.

When summer heat hits, the swimming pool becomes the place to be. And don't pack away your outdoor enthusiasm when winter arrives - the park's refrigerated ice rink keeps the fun going year-round. You can even rent skates for a reasonable price if you don't have your own.

For those who prefer a more casual workout, the one-mile walking circuit winding around the fields offers a wonderful route for your daily steps or a peaceful evening stroll.

Playground Area

The interactive musical playground stands out as one of the park's most unique features. This innovative play space goes beyond your typical swing set, though just know that some of the musical elements might need a bit of TLC.

Safety comes first with a rubber ground surface cushioning any tumbles, while multiple swings and slides keep the fun going. When temperatures climb, kids flock to the splash pad to cool off. With different play structures designed for various age groups, children from toddlers to pre-teens will find something engaging.

Take a load off on one of the many benches or picnic tables surrounding the playground - perfect spots to watch the kids while enjoying a snack or catching up on some reading.

Unique Features

Inclusion is a priority here, evidenced by the White Sox Baseball Miracle Field with its ADA-accessible design. This makes Mount Greenwood particularly welcoming for families with children who have special needs.

Nature lovers will appreciate the two gardens that add some greenery and seasonal color to the landscape.

Indoor Facilities & Programs

Step inside the park's fieldhouse to discover a well-equipped gymnasium and versatile multi-purpose rooms that host community activities throughout the year.

The program offerings include options for all ages, from seasonal sports leagues to preschool activities and specialized Therapeutic Recreation options. The Special Education department is well-regarded by community members for their dedication.

Summer brings the popular six-week day camp run by the Chicago Park District, alongside specialty programs including a dedicated Special Recreation Camp.

Visitor Information

The park generally maintains a clean, welcoming environment, though like any public space, upkeep can vary with the seasons. One thing to note - public restrooms aren't always accessible during all park hours. Fortunately, there are businesses and a gas station just across the street that can serve as alternatives when needed.

If you're bringing toddlers, keep an eye out for the hills within the park to prevent any tumbles.

History & Development

Mount Greenwood Park has evolved significantly over the years. A major expansion occurred in 2004 when the park acquired additional land from the Board of Education.

In 2008, the park unveiled a fully accessible soft surface playground featuring artistic elements created by local artists through the Chicago Public Art Group.

The park's story intertwines with the Mount Greenwood community itself. The name comes from the surrounding area, which drew inspiration from the lush greenery of a nearby cemetery established back in 1879.

The post-World War II boom brought the park into existence as part of the Chicago Park District's Ten Year Plan, created to provide recreational spaces in this rapidly growing neighborhood.