Shabbona Park

Park Features

Located in Chicago's Dunning neighborhood, Shabbona Park spreads across a generous 18.83 acres, sitting just two blocks east of Oak Park Avenue with Addison Street defining its northern edge.

The park's centerpiece is a charming Georgian-style brick fieldhouse dating back to 1928. Step inside and you can find an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, gymnasium, gymnastics center, a woodcraft room for the creatively inclined, and a clubroom you can rent for gatherings.

Outdoors, there's something for everyone - four baseball fields, a softball field, a dual-purpose football-soccer field, five tennis courts, and even two horseshoe pits for those who appreciate traditional games. Kids will make a beeline for the playground, while everyone can cool off at the spray pool during summer months. For those who enjoy a good stroll, a nearly one-mile walking trail circles the park, doubling as a cross-country skiing route when snow blankets Chicago.

Playground and Water Features

The thoughtfully designed playground caters to different age groups with dedicated spaces for little ones ages 3-5 and older children 5-12. You can find swings and age-appropriate equipment that keeps kids engaged and active.

When temperatures rise, the splash area becomes a magnet for families. It's a simple joy watching children dart through water streams, giggling and cooling off on hot summer days.

The indoor swimming pool stands out for its cleanliness, spaciousness, and consistently comfortable water temperature. Swimming lessons are available for everyone from tentative beginners to confident swimmers, with instructors known for their patience and supportive approach.

Recreational Programs

Shabbona Park offers inclusive programming. The fitness center welcomes those looking to stay active, while sports enthusiasts can join programs ranging from badminton and basketball to dodgeball, floor hockey, softball, and volleyball.

Summer brings a popular six-week day camp that keeps kids engaged and active. The park also nurtures the youngest visitors with toddler and preschool programs designed to develop crucial social skills.

The park provides special recreation programs for people with disabilities, including Special Olympics training. Year-round, the park hosts community-building events like Halloween celebrations and summer movie nights under the stars.

Sports Courts and Fields

If you're sports-minded, you'll appreciate the three well-maintained baseball diamonds that host everything from serious league games to casual family catch sessions.

Tennis enthusiasts have multiple courts to choose from, and the newer addition of pickleball courts reflects the park's evolution with changing recreational trends. There's also an outdoor basketball court, but it's limited to a single twelve-foot hoop.

One of Shabbona's assets is its spaciousness - there's plenty of room to spread out, play, and gather with others.

History

Dating back to the 1920s, Shabbona Park bears the name of Potawatomi chief Shabbona (ca. 1775-1859). In 1934, it became part of the Chicago Park District during the consolidation of several independent park commissions.

The park received significant renovations in the 1990s, refreshing its facilities while maintaining its historical character.

Atmosphere

There's something genuinely peaceful about Shabbona Park - many visitors come specifically for its tranquil environment and beautiful sunrise views. It maintains that rare balance of being both a neighborhood haven and a welcoming space for newcomers.

The staff contribute significantly to the park's warm atmosphere, with many regulars noting their kindness and attentiveness. While dogs are welcome companions at Shabbona, you'll want to clean up after your four-legged friends to help preserve the park's clean, inviting environment for everyone.