Portage Park

Portage Park is a public recreation area in northwest Chicago with five baseball fields, two soccer fields, six tennis courts, and biking and nature walking paths across maintained grounds. The 38-acre site features an Olympic-size swimming pool that includes a sun deck, misting sprays, and separate areas designed for children's water play.

The name comes from Native American routes that connected the Des Plaines and Chicago Rivers, historically used for canoe travel between these waterways. The fieldhouse was built in 1920 by architect Clarence Hatzfeld, reflecting design principles focused on horizontal lines and natural materials.

The nearby Veterans Art Museum displays works created by artists who served in different military conflicts. These exhibitions show personal perspectives and creative expressions from people with combat experience.

The location offers different activities for visitors of all ages, from swimming to biking and playing on grass fields. It is best to visit on days with mild weather when most areas are easily accessible.

The fieldhouse displays a rare example of prairie-school architecture, known for its sweeping horizontal forms and connection to nature. This building stands as a preserved work of an architectural style that emerged in this region.

Location: Illinois

GPS coordinates: 41.95500,-87.76444

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46