Seneca Park

Location and History

Found in the Streeterville neighborhood, Seneca Park is a small but peaceful green oasis in the urban landscape. It sits just east of the Water Tower Pumping Station, offering a quiet break from Michigan Avenue's hustle and bustle.

This pocket park spans just 1.01 acres but has quite the backstory. Dating back to 1907, it was originally part of Lake Shore Playground until 1915, when an armory construction project split the area, eventually giving us what we now know as Seneca Park.

Art and Sculptures

What makes this little park special is its artistic side. Take a moment to appreciate Ben, a beautiful bronze horse sculpture by artist Debra Butterfield, or contemplate the abstract lines of Farmer's Dream by Richard Hunt. These art pieces add a cultural dimension to the park.

Playground and Amenities

The park features the Eli M. Schulman Playground, named after a popular local restaurateur and philanthropist. Established in 1990 and completely renovated in 2021, this playground now features modern play structures that spark imagination for children between 2 and 12 years old.

Thoughtfully designed, the playground separates into two zones - a toddler area (ages 1-4) with age-appropriate equipment and baby swings, and a section for older kids (5-12) with more challenging climbing opportunities.

You'll find some interesting features here, like a mini race car track for toy cars, large slides, and various climbing equipment. Parents can relax a bit thanks to the fully enclosed playground with a security gate - a real blessing when you've got little ones with wandering tendencies.

Safety was clearly a priority in the design, with soft rubber surfaces throughout the play areas to cushion any tumbles.

Park Features

Beyond the playground, Seneca Park offers shaded walkways, wooden benches nestled under trees, and green lawns that invite you to slow down for a moment. It's especially popular with families visiting from nearby attractions or taking a break from appointments at the adjacent Lurie Children's Hospital.

The park stays well-lit in the evenings, making it enjoyable even as the day winds down. While you won't find picnic tables here, the many benches provide plenty of spots to sit and enjoy a quick snack or coffee.

The contrast between the surrounding Chicago skyscrapers and this calm green space creates an interesting atmosphere. Its location near the Magnificent Mile makes it a fantastic pit stop during a day of city exploration.

Practical Information

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 11PM. You should note that dogs aren't allowed in the park area. Need a restroom? You'll find public facilities across the street near the Water Tower, on the second floor by Harry Caray's restaurant.