Jackson Park

Jackson Park is an urban green space in South Side Chicago that stretches along the shore of Lake Michigan and contains natural lagoons, islands, harbors, and several beaches. The grounds also offer wide playing fields and paths that wind through tree groves and open lawns.

Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux designed the grounds starting in 1869 as part of a larger park system for Chicago. The site later became the main location for the 1893 World's Fair, which left behind numerous pavilions and gardens, some traces of which remain visible today.

The Garden of the Phoenix displays Japanese design through a koi pond and a pavilion inspired by structures from Kyōto. Visitors can walk the quiet paths and see traditional stone lanterns and bridges that stand in this section of the grounds.

The grounds include a fitness center, tennis courts, a golf course, and several multipurpose rooms for neighborhood events and activities. The three beaches along the lakefront are open during summer and are easily reached through the paths in the southern section.

More than 300 bird species live in or regularly visit the grounds, including a permanent colony of feral monk parakeets that build their nests in the treetops. These green parrots originally come from South America and have adapted to the urban climate of Chicago, where they can be heard and seen throughout the year.

Location: Chicago

Operator: Chicago Park District

Part of: Jackson Park Historic Landscape District and Midway Plaisance

Shares border with: Hyde Park

GPS coordinates: 41.78300,-87.58000

Latest update: December 5, 2025 16:32