Maggie Daley Park

Maggie Daley Park, a 20-acre recreational marvel in Chicago's Grant Park, represents a transformative $60 million investment that revitalized the former Daley Bicentennial Plaza. Inaugurated between 2014 and 2015, this park, designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, pays homage to the former First Lady through its innovative features and thoughtful integration into the urban landscape. The park includes a 3-acre Play Garden, a quarter-mile ice skating ribbon, and climbing walls, all ingeniously constructed on a green roof atop a parking garage. The park's location on the landfill-expanded north end of Grant Park carries historical significance, as this area was once safeguarded from development by Aaron Montgomery Ward in the late 1800s. The decision to reimagine the space stemmed from the aging infrastructure of the parking garage, leading to a comprehensive renovation plan in 2009. Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates employed Geofoam to create impressive 30-foot elevation changes without compromising the structural integrity of the parking facility below, showcasing an innovative approach to urban park design. Maggie Daley Park, connected to Millennium Park via the BP Bridge, is celebrated for its dynamic "Play Garden," a sprawling children's area, as well as its climbing wall and distinctive 1/4 mile skating ribbon. These attractions offer diverse recreational opportunities, making the park a vibrant destination for families and visitors alike. The park stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning, blending historical preservation with modern recreational amenities to create a unique and engaging public space.

This park is such a gem and truly one of the things that makes Chicago stand out compared to other big cities. It’s clean, safe, and never feels overcrowded, which makes every visit enjoyable and stress-free. The playgrounds are especially well thought out, with sections that have just one or two entrances, making it much easier for parents to keep an eye on their kids. The sheer size of the playground is impressive, with different areas designed for kids to run, climb, and play in a safe and fun environment. What’s great is that while there are plenty of activities available, from miniature golf to rock climbing, all of the playgrounds themselves are completely free, which makes it accessible for everyone. It’s the perfect spot for families, whether you’re letting the little ones burn off energy or just enjoying the calm, well-kept surroundings. The park’s cleanliness and peaceful atmosphere make it a place worth coming back to again and again.

Wow would a beautiful, thoughtfully planned out park. So much to do, we coulda spend a longer time there! We loved the boat and birdie, and the enchanted forest. So much fun!

The park is beautiful we were ice skating and walking around taking pictures. As you can see on my picture it is a good spot for taking your new insta story. If you are in Chicago and you like ice skating go check it out.

They placed two large diesel generators on each side of the skating ribbon to power some unnecessary pop up coffee stands, it smells like diesel fuel and exhaust while I'm skating or while I'm resting or having a snack on either side of the ribbon, used to be my favorite place to skate and hang but I won't be going back until these generators are removed. The existing concession stand has plenty of offerings, these pop up coffee stands running on large diesel generators are totally uncessary. The generators are noisy, they smell and pollute. This place is ruined. I wonder if these generators will be there all year ?