Jackson Park

City park · Jackson Park

Jackson Park

City park · Jackson Park

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6401 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60637

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Jackson Park by null
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Jackson Park by null
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Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null
Jackson Park by null

Highlights

Sprawling park with beach, gardens, fitness, cafe & events  

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6401 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60637 Get directions

chicagoparkdistrict.com

Information

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6401 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60637 Get directions

+1 773 256 0903
chicagoparkdistrict.com
ChicagoParkDistrict
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@chicagoparks

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Sep 17, 2025

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@eater

Where to Pick Up Picnic Food For Chicago’s Parks | Eater Chicago

"14 Parish owner Racquel Fields took over Piccolo Mondo’s former spot in January, serving up Southern-style brunch all day. The French toast is probably best eaten in the restaurant, which is styled like a retro diner, but picnickers heading to Jackson Park can snag some biscuits, fried chicken with hot sauce, and smoked salmon deviled eggs for a comforting spread." - Sam Nelson

https://chicago.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-picnics-food-chicago
View Postcard for Jackson Park

Cynthia Torres

Google
A beautiful place to spend the day. Japanese Gardens, Museum of Science and Industry, nature trails, and coming soon the Obama Presidential Library.

Celestine Johnson

Google
I actually missed the full bloom of the Cherry Blossoms. Have to remember to go a little earlier next year. Still a beautiful Saturday to enjoy at Jackson Park

Dijana Stoniene

Google
Beautiful view place. Shallow place of the lake safe for kids, no stones. A bit disappointing was some of the life guards were not letting to swim further even water was to waist line..... But overall, it's a good beach. Near the beach cafe where you can eat and have cold drinks and beverages.

Sk Ima

Google
That was awesome Japanese garden 🪏 but visit around 1pm to 7pm.

Ava Marie

Google
I love walking here with my boyfriend on nice sunny days. Sometimes the park is semi trashed, but hey, it's Chicago. You kind of expect it. The views of the Japanese park are very nice, again when it's clean. The cherry blossom trees are always so beautiful when in the spring and summer. Definitely stop by here if you're on the south side by the Museum of Science and Industry.

NL Collins

Google
Went to a graduation celebration. Nice setting, open but gated for privacy. Suited for 30 or less. Nice views, good company

Kiki Lashay

Google
Southside yacht club is a hidden gem very mature crowd..live band r n b music..dj also ..very friendly ppl n staff was great..my new love on the lakefront...the food is great steak or chicken breast baked potatoe..salad..veggies..dinner roll so tasty 2nd Tuesday of the month..

Peggy Stevenson

Google
Golf, tennis, nature trails, a marina, the museum of Science and Industry just a walking path away, beautiful cherry trees in bloom in the spring and lots of park to play in 😍
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Joneice B.

Yelp
After four years of living in Chicago, I finally got to see the Cherry Blossom in Jackson Park. It was very beautiful to finally see mother's nature in full swing. It was very nice day, warm for a Spring day. I enjoyed walking to the park and also visiting the Japanese garden. The cherry blossoms were lovely to see. Makes me wanna go to DC and then Japan to experience them all over again.
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Wendy L.

Yelp
We love coming to Jackson Park to go on a nature walk and to enjoy the peaceful vibe of the Japanese Garden. Today we got to catch the cherry blossoms in full bloom, which was a first for me. So worth it and special!
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Padma A.

Yelp
Love beautiful flora and fauna in this park and the Japanese Garden is so peaceful and relaxing. We try and get there every year to see the cherry blossoms. I personally like Yoko's sculpture . Highly recommended this place
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Ci H.

Yelp
Beautiful place with cherry blossoms in bloom this year. It faces the museum of science & industry. Felt safe.
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Aesha E.

Yelp
Jackson Park is one of the largest parks in the city, and significant piece of Chicago's history. Designed by Frank Law Olmstead, who established the profession of landscape architecture, it was the backdrop of the World's Fair Columbian Exposition. The park is filled with lots of interesting features. There's a field house, and many programs and classes that take place here. The Museum of Science and Industry, one of the few remaining structures from the Fair (it was at that the known as the Palace of Fine Arts), is still technically in the park. The Garden of the Phoenix, also known as the Japanese Garden, is in Jackson Park (somewhere; I have yet to find it myself!). There are sculptures and statues scattered throughout. I did, however, find a natural garden area hidden within Jackson Park! Bobolink Meadow is actually landfill (as is so much of Chicago's impressive lakefront). There's a nice trail through the meadow, and a few areas where one can stop and view other areas of the park. It was quite a surprise to me to find it, and a pleasant one at that. Jackson Park is a beautiful place in Chicago and I hope I'm able to spend more time appreciating this beautiful and historic park.
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Steve A.

Yelp
Another very nice park on the South Side that isn't appreciated. It has a lot to offer and has many beautiful features. Jackson Park has quite a lot to check out. Has a golf course and a lagoon. The Japanese Garden is another feature of importance that's fairly popular. Basically it's a big park and there's a lot here for almost everyone. It's better in warmer months but has its own kind of beauty at any time. There's a humongous lagoon in the middle popular for photo taking. Maybe most notable is the Japanese Garden. There's a pretty cool looking pagoda. It's also close to the Museum Of Science And Industry. This is a nice place for getting sunlight after being inside a few hours or so. Getting here is kind of annoying. It doesn't have free parking. There's meters if you come by car but it also has many bike paths and it's also easy to get here by train.
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Michele B.

Yelp
On july 8th was the annual chosen few picnic and festival. We all had a good time. The park is big enough to hold a lot of people. Year after year it gets better. The greener the basketball court. The golf course. Since they are building the library around it will be better than ever. The other side has a dog park. They have built a bridge that you can cross under to get to the other side from Stoney Island. They still have the pond for the geese and ducks that have lived there for years. After everything is finished you should visit.
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Araceli C.

Yelp
Cherry blossom season We went to the park this morning cold day but the trees Was beautiful
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Michelle D.

Yelp
Jackson Park is a nice green space for a walk. Even though we missed the fall colors, we enjoyed the Japanese garden, the Garden of the Phoenix, very much. It was nice to see the landscaping and the fish in the pond. The bridge was closed and the water features were not on so I would like to come back to see it another time. They have a piece by Yoko Ono just outside of the garden of the Phoenix. The walk around the island is quick and the next time I'm in Chicago, I will definitely be making another trip back around the park.
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Orest S.

Yelp
The park is under construction and looks poor. I would recommend the Wooden island and Japanese garden in it. Everything else is boring. Nothing left from World's Columbian Exposition in 1983
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Jacqueline B.

Yelp
Interesting how many reviews list Jackson Park but not this actual building /fieldhouse. The area around is quite gorgeous in the daytime. I have only been in this building a handful of times, and it is nicely constructed and spacious. The walls and hallways make it seem like an 'institution', but there are SO many positive messages and artwork about African-American heroes around, which is educational for children and adults. I went to vote, so there were chairs set up in the hallway to sign in, and the room (smallish) contained 6 or 7 booths, as well as the staff. A table with snacks for the staff was in the corner and music was playing. Some kids were entering as I was leaving apparently for a party. I have been to schools for voting and they usually put us in a MUCH bigger room, but with this being early voting and a Saturday maybe they didn't anticipate a huge crowd. The line never got unreasonable but for someone who's claustrophobic this could be a nightmare! I could maybe see going back later to see what's going on, and with the 63rd Street YMCA across the street, it won't be a dull moment! I'd advise early day hours, not dusk.
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John T.

Yelp
Gorgeous. Stunning. Breathtaking. No, I'm not talking about the way I look as soon as I get out of bed. I am talking about my new Chicago park crush. I'm sorry, Humboldt. You may have just gotten bumped. Lush. Peaceful. Immaculately designed. Jackson Park WILL fool you. You won't feel as though you are in the middle of the city. You'll feel as though somehow you got lost, deep in the woods... and wound up at a country club. Yep. A country club. There's an impressive golf course, French statues, gigantic trees, and expansive greenways. What? Where did all this come from? Don't call it a comeback. It's been here for years. Seriously. Blues Brothers. White City. It's all Jackson Park. Japanese garden. Foot bridges. Bird watching. Jackson Park. I'd read about the lack of free parking, but I managed to find some without much difficulty. Yeah, I may have walked a bit, but that gave me an occasion to stroll through all the beauty. Likewise, I walked right up to the Statue of the Republic. Maybe I have super powers. There's so much to see and take in at Jackson Park. I'd love to dedicate a full day -- from sun up to late afternoon -- to exploring the various foot paths and water ways. I was struck by true serenity as I walked on the green grass. I didn't trip over liquor bottles. I didn't get run over by soccer mom's on cell phones pushing their double-wides. I didn't see many people at all. I felt as though I had the grounds all to myself as I surveyed my kingdom. I loved it. I loved every glimpse I took in. I could spend hours just staring into the lagoon and contemplating its mystery. Truly, with every new scene I observed, I wondered what the heck took me so long to get down here and check it out. Why Lincoln gets all the press, I'll never know. Well, actually... I have a pretty good idea why...
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Dan H.

Yelp
This is one of these most extraordinary hidden pleasures of Chicagoland! It is located right behind the Museum of Science and industry around 57th off of Lake Shore Drive but you'd never know you're in the city. It's remarkable. The history of the island goes back to the 1893 World's Fair and is easily researchable. But to me the simple beauty and seclusion of the island makes it a respite that I stop at anytime I am close. I also walk with a birding group that meets every Saturday and we sight the most interesting birds on this island. JacksonParkBirding dot org has our info. It is very near the Obama Library and we LOVE this park!
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Chrissy N.

Yelp
The park just south of the Museum of Science & Industry bordered on the east by LSDrive, and on the west by Stony Island. I've seen this park referenced in Devil in the White City, and if you've seen Jeoffrey Baer's Chicago History specials, you know the pivotal role this park played in Chicago's World's Fair in the late 1800s. In fact, in the park, you can view original bridges which stood in the 1800s, built for the fair, light posts, the Osaka Gardens, and resting stations. And of course- the Museum played its part too. The Osaka gardens with its footbridge and lovely waterfall is a real refresher for the eyes and ears. My friend and I were walking for fitness, and took advantage of the cool & breezy June evening to stroll this area. Beautiful wild flowers all through the bird and butterfly sanctuary (south of Osaka Gardens.) The place is pretty deserted except for some fishermen along the lagoon. So I'd recommend not coming here after dark. But if you have time to wander around and explore the paths- do come here. A bit of history, a lot of nature, and a great location for fun, fitness, or refreshment. We decided we'd bring our cameras for sure next time.
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Tavi J.

Yelp
I've only been to Jackson Park 3 times in my life and all 3 times have been for the annual Chosen Few House Picnic. Actual Park: - Beautiful big open space. I would like to come back and take it all in without the tents being everywhere. Chosen Few Event: - I've been told it use to be a free event. $30.00 is sort of a ridiculous amount to pay. I'll either prepay next year or stop coming. LOL - Definitely extravagant tents. I saw one with an air conditioner inside. - If you like House Music this is the event for you - Very crowed, but a good time if you happen to know quite a few people with tents there. - Food is outstanding. I'm not talking about vendors (only a few), but individuals BBQing at their own tents. People are so friendly and willing to share or trade.
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Allie M.

Yelp
Went here on the weekend about a month ago to walk around and to see if I could spot out any cool birds. There were the typical Canadian geese and great blue heron here. I did spot a Green heron here as well...first one I've scene so it was definitely neat. I ran into someone birding and was told that there is a nest off green heron there. I will definitely be back again to see more birds this fall. Parking is metered but there is plenty if you come early enough. Walking around is free so it would be a good place for a nice family walk. And there is a nice little Japanese garden as well.
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George R.

Yelp
Jackson Park is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Chicago for an extended stroll. The real attraction, even more so than the giant golden statue, the hidden Japanese garden, and that bridge where the Blues Brothers drove the hated Illinois Nazis into the water, is the lagoon itself--simply beautiful. The last time I was there, I surprised a Great White Heron (no kidding) which was perched behind a rock in the Osaka Garden, who promptly spread his wings and took off over the lagoon. Back to the sights though. The Osaka Garden is on the Wooded Isle, and is really easy to find. Stick to the right when heading south from the Museum of Science and Industry, or just take either path north from the 63rd St lot to get there--it's well signed. For a beautifully set, hidden Japanese garden on the South Side of Chicago, it can actually be a bit underwhelming. Where's Mayor Daley and his extravagant plans when you need him? The small pagoda there long ago used to be a tea house, and it would be incredible if the city would reopen that. The lagoon views are wonderful, though, and the arched bridge will delight kids if you have them. The Statue of the Republic, unfortunately, is best seen by car, as there aren't any nice paths leading towards it. To get to it, take 63rd St east from Cornell and loop right around it. Make a point of seeing it, though, it's very impressive. The infamous Nazi rally bridge isn't so exciting (again, but for the beautiful lagoon views), but you can find it on the east side of the lagoon by the yacht harbor. It leads south from the museum towards the tennis courts. Less known than the above attractions are the bird watching trails. Heading southeast from the museum towards the Nazi bridge, you can get on a difficult to see trail on your right, which takes you through some woods to Bobolink Meadow right alongside the east bank of the lagoon. I didn't see any interesting birds, but I wasn't looking for them--the views were lovely. There is always parking available in a lot off of 63rd St between Cornell and the Statue of the Republic, and the paths there both lead straight to the Wooded Isle. By the way, why is Yelp's map here showing the Indiana Dunes?!
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Dawn H.

Yelp
I can't believe no one has reveiwed Jackson Park! It is such a beautiful place and such an important part of Chicago history. I love walking around the paths, in the Osaka Garden that borders one of the many lagoons. Jackson Park was designed and created for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition - site of the famous book, "Devil in the White City" - The "White City" referenced was located in this location. The Museum of Science and Industry is the only remaining building from the Expo, but you can still walk the grounds and see some remaining statues and the lovely woods and waterways.
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Mark N.

Yelp
Such a beautiful and tranquil place for a stroll , with a pretty large lake and an island which you can walk out to that has a Japanese garden with a fantastic view of the museum, the leaves are at peak color change now, amazing!! a guy I talked to who was fishing in the fairly large lake here said there are tons of catfish and other fish. Right by Museum of Science and Industry and Univ of Chicago. Get off at 56st Hyde Park Metra stop.
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Cesar W.

Yelp
Yes, it is a great place to walk, watch birds, and take great pictures. It is peaceful like a island of beauty. The Japanese garden is highlight of this park.
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Timothy M.

Yelp
As Dawn said, what a fantastic place in Chicago's past. Cream of Wheat and the Ferris Wheel were first showcased in this park at the Columbian Expedition. The golf course, the lagoon, the statues, the Osaka Gardens, the yatch club. Such a gorgeous place to relax or to take a leisurely drive or bike ride through.
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Rawlins R.

Yelp
Jackson Park is a part of the south campus of the Museum of Science and Industry. This is one of the many parks in the city and has a lot to offer. There are many ponds and channels of water throughout this park. They have football fields and soccer fields here as well. I have come here a few times now to run in races. Jackson Park is a nice area to host a race where the start and finish areas are located in the park. The park is located close to the highway as well as Lake Shore Drive pathway. If you come here you have to check out the awesome statue of the republic. The Chicago Half Marathon finish line runs right up to this statue and it can be quite the motivator.
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Yohance T.

Yelp
A very beautiful park true gem. Although it may not be all that safe at times. it is still a nice beautiful park. The Japanese Garden is very pretty You can take lots of nice pictures as one reviewer said. Yo just have to be extra aware when you are walking around
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Julie D.

Yelp
Beautiful park south of Chicago that we just happened to stumbled upon. I believe it was named for President Andrew Jackson. Not as famous as Chicago's other parks, it's still a worthwhile spot to visit.
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Tory w.

Yelp
A really, really pretty and peaceful park. A great place for birdwatching, strolling, biking, or chilling. As everyone else has mentioned, the Japanese Garden is gorgeous, as is the lagoon. It's definitely also cool to be in the neighborhood of the former "White City", especially if you have read Erik Larsen's book. It is unfortunate that parking isn't free, but I'm not removing a star for that!
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Shik S.

Yelp
Green spaces are always a good thing. This is rumored to be one of two contenders for the location of the next Presidential library. The park is adjacent to the Museum of Science and Industry and there is not too much nearby traffic. The park is clean and there was no panhandling during my last visit.
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Luke S.

Yelp
The Osaka garden is quite pretty (although extremely small), but the park more generally suffers from an apparent lack of upkeep. Paths cracked and overgrown in spots, no signage or maps... it somehow feels like the place has been deserted!
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Joshua A.

Yelp
I visit Jackson Park maybe 5 or 6 times a year and I love it.....It's Located between the historic Hyde Park and South Shore neighborboods. This park has a lot to offer from basketball courts to beaches to a Golf Course to the Musuem of Science and Industry... This park is very diverse and is a park that you must visit if you live in or near by Chicago......
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Jason W.

Yelp
Decent course for the $ in the city for sure, but no need for the starter to be rude. Not for someone that makes their tee time. -2 stars for the obnoxious starter that tried to show off and set an example of my party in front of his pals. We made it just in time due to the 25 minute wait in the clubhouse just to pay for the round.