Ping Tom Memorial Park

Ping Tom Memorial Park is a 17-acre green space situated along the south bank of the Chicago River, featuring open lawns, walking paths, and river views. The site includes a fieldhouse with an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, gymnasium, and meeting spaces.

The site was once a railroad transport yard operated by the Chicago and Western Indiana Railroad before the Chicago Park District transformed it into a public park. It opened to the public in October 1999.

The park displays Chinese architectural elements including a pagoda pavilion and manicured gardens that reflect the traditions of the surrounding Chinatown neighborhood. Visitors notice how these design choices connect the green space to the community that borders it.

The park is easy to navigate, with well-maintained paths along the river and clear zones for different activities. Community facilities are open year-round, so you can enjoy swimming, fitness activities, or simply walk at your own pace.

A 300-foot boardwalk extends over the river and incorporates decorative limestone scholar stones from Lake Tai in China among native plant landscaping. This blend of distant Chinese elements with local plantings creates an unexpected contrast along the riverbank.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1999

Operator: Chicago Park District

Website: https://chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks/Ping-Tom-Memorial-Park

GPS coordinates: 41.85690,-87.63470

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:56