Yankee Park

Recreation Facilities

Just steps from the shelter, you'll find a pair of sand volleyball courts meant for casual games or competitive matches. There are three tennis courts nearby, with two of them conveniently lined for pickleball as well (hello, weekend warriors!). The playground features all-access equipment, making fun available to children of all abilities.

Head north past a natural tree divider and you'll discover an expansive field area home to four baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and football practice areas. The baseball fields are in good condition with even outfields and smooth infields.

Playground Area

The playground got a recent facelift with modern equipment that caters to different age groups. Older kids can challenge themselves on the larger structure with tall slides and climbing features, while a separate smaller area keeps the little ones safely entertained.

The playground features a soft astroturf surface that provides better cushioning than traditional gravel or woodchips. Between the swings, slides, climbing structures, and open spaces, there's plenty to keep energetic youngsters engaged for hours.

Shelter and Amenities

The park's covered pavilion contains about a dozen picnic tables and can accommodate gatherings of up to 100 people. You'll find clean, well-maintained restroom facilities attached to the pavilion - always a welcome feature for families with young children.

There are grills available near the picnic area when you're in the mood for some outdoor cooking. The shelter sits at a convenient central spot that connects easily to the playground and other park features.

Natural Features

If you're looking to escape into nature for a bit, head to the southeast quadrant where a wooded area offers a peaceful retreat with a winding nature trail to explore.

During spring, the park transforms with beautiful color as flowering crab apple trees bloom along the north and east borders, adding a touch of natural beauty to your visit.

Paths and Trails

A paved path loops around the entire park, stretching 0.82 miles including the sidewalk along Yankee Street. The smooth, well-maintained track is excellent for a quick morning jog or an evening stroll with the family.

If you're looking for a shorter route, there's also a center path measuring 0.19 miles. These paths are popular spots for dog walking and provide easy access to all the park's features.

Park History

Yankee Park opened in 1964, when the Park District purchased the initial 18-acre parcel that now forms the southern portion of the grounds.

Through additional land acquisitions, the park grew to its current size of 36.679 acres, with the final piece added in 1969.

Visitor Information

The park welcomes visitors daily from 7AM-9PM. Your four-legged friends are welcome too, as long as they're leashed (keep it under eight feet and visible, please). Restrooms are available during spring and summer, with portable toilets taking over during the winter months.

A spacious parking lot is located north of the playground area, with a dedicated entrance and exit system for better traffic flow.