Maggie Daley Park
An innovative urban oasis featuring a spectacular play garden, ice ribbon, climbing wall, and mini golf with city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Maggie Daley Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An innovative urban oasis featuring a spectacular play garden, ice ribbon, climbing wall, and mini golf with city views.
"Simply incredible how well the trees are growing considering it is in a green roof over a parking garage!"
Playground Fun is Free! :tada:
Most of the amazing play areas are free to access, making it a budget-friendly family outing.
Fall is Playground Paradise :fallen_leaf:
Visit in fall for fewer crowds and cooler temps, perfect for enjoying the play garden.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Play Garden Adventure
Various sections
An imaginative wonderland with slides, climbing structures, and unique play zones for all ages.
Skyline Mini Golf
Mini Golf Course
Tee off with iconic Chicago skyline views on this creative and colorful 18-hole course.
Ice Skating Ribbon
Ice Rink
Glide along a unique "lazy river" style ice path, offering a refreshing winter experience.
Climbing Wall Thrills
Climbing Wall
Challenge yourself on the impressive outdoor climbing wall, suitable for various skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Perks & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Playground Fun is Free! :tada:
Most of the amazing play areas are free to access, making it a budget-friendly family outing.
Fall is Playground Paradise :fallen_leaf:
Visit in fall for fewer crowds and cooler temps, perfect for enjoying the play garden.
Book Ice Skating Ahead :ice_skate:
Reservations are recommended for the ice skating ribbon, especially on weekends.
Parking Perks :car:
Utilize discounted parking at Lakeside Garage for a more affordable downtown visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Playground Fun is Free! :tada:
Most of the amazing play areas are free to access, making it a budget-friendly family outing.
Fall is Playground Paradise :fallen_leaf:
Visit in fall for fewer crowds and cooler temps, perfect for enjoying the play garden.
Book Ice Skating Ahead :ice_skate:
Reservations are recommended for the ice skating ribbon, especially on weekends.
Parking Perks :car:
Utilize discounted parking at Lakeside Garage for a more affordable downtown visit.
Climbing Wall Test :mountain_climbing:
Experienced climbers might be able to test their skills without a full course.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Maggie Daley Park's brilliant design and expansive, free play areas, calling it a must-visit for families. While the park is generally well-maintained, some play surfaces show wear, and the rental skates could be better. Overall, it's celebrated as a top-tier urban park offering diverse activities and stunning city views.
"Brilliant design work by the MVVA team. From a landscape architecture perspective, this is one of my favorite playgrounds to take the kids too. The kids can play and I can slow pace around studying the plants and overall design. Simply incredible how well the trees are growing considering it is in a green roof over a parking garage!
The park is showing its age in good and bad ways. The trees are reaching maturity and we are finally starting to realize the full design intent, but some of the play surface is really worn. With more funding, maintenance could probably be improved. With the age and popularity (crazy foot traffic) everything is holding up pretty well."
Justin Libra
"Such a great park for kids! The slides near the rope bridge were a huge hit, and my kids couldn’t get enough of climbing on the whale and the lighthouse slide.
Definitely a must if you’re downtown with little ones."
Postcard Narrative Family Travel
"Such a nice park. It's something I appreciate more every time I go, and it's an example of how much nicer Chicago is than other large cities in America. It's clean, safe, and never overcrowded. The playgrounds are in sections with one or two entrances which makes keeping track of your kids much easier. There are so many things to do, from miniature golf to rock climbing. But all the playgrounds are free."
Rob Snyder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maggie Daley Park is easily accessible by public transportation, with several CTA bus routes and 'L' train lines nearby. Driving is also an option, with discounted parking available at the Lakeside Parking Garage.
Yes, the Lakeside Parking Garage offers discounted parking for visitors. It's a short walk or elevator ride to the park entrance.
Absolutely! The park is located along the Lakefront Trail, making it a great destination for cyclists. Bike racks are available.
The park is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring paved paths and ramps throughout, making it easy to navigate with strollers and wheelchairs.
From downtown, Maggie Daley Park is a pleasant walk or a short taxi/rideshare trip away. It's conveniently located adjacent to Millennium Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The main attractions, including the play garden and general park access, are free! However, activities like ice skating and mini golf have separate admission fees.
Ice skating typically costs around $22 per person for a 2-hour rental, which includes skate rental. If you bring your own skates, it's either free or a small $5 charge.
While not always mandatory, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times, to guarantee your spot.
Summer hours for climbing wall and scooter/rollerblade rentals are typically 11 am - 5 pm Sunday-Thursday and 11 am - 6 pm Friday-Saturday. Ice skating hours vary seasonally.
While specific age restrictions aren't always listed, the climbing wall is generally suitable for older children and adults. Experienced climbers can test their skills.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the incredible Play Garden, the unique Ice Skating Ribbon in winter, the challenging Climbing Wall, and the fun Mini Golf course with skyline views. 
The Play Garden is an expansive, creatively designed area with diverse play structures, slides, climbing elements, and themed zones suitable for various age groups.
Yes, skate rentals are available for the Ice Skating Ribbon. They also offer devices to help less experienced skaters.
The climbing wall offers various routes. While experienced climbers can test their skills, beginners might find it challenging without guidance.
Kids will love the extensive Play Garden, the mini golf course, and during winter, the Ice Skating Ribbon. The climbing wall is also a hit for adventurous youngsters.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a snack bar available at the Ice Skating Ribbon for drinks and light refreshments. Bringing your own snacks and water is also a good idea.
Picnicking is a great option! There are plenty of open spaces and benches throughout the park where you can enjoy a meal.
Maggie Daley Park is surrounded by numerous restaurants in the Loop and near Millennium Park, offering a wide range of dining choices.
The snack bar at the Ice Skating Ribbon typically offers drinks and basic snacks. It's best for quick bites rather than a full meal.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages to enjoy in the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Chicago skyline from the mini golf course, the unique curves of the Ice Skating Ribbon, and the vibrant Play Garden.
Absolutely! The diverse landscapes, playful structures, and city backdrop make it an ideal location for memorable family photos.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light for photography. Midday can be bright but offers clear views of the city.
Drone usage is generally restricted in city parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to check with park authorities for current regulations.
The 'whale' climbing structure in the Play Garden and the city views from the higher points of the park are particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the Play Garden, families can enjoy mini golf with a view and, in winter, the unique Ice Skating Ribbon. The park's design, with separate entrances to playground sections, also makes it easier for parents to keep an eye on their children. Consider visiting in the fall for a less crowded and more comfortable experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
While activities like ice skating and mini golf have fees, they are reasonably priced for the experience. Parking can also be managed affordably by utilizing the discounted parking at Lakeside Garage. Packing your own snacks and drinks further reduces costs, making it an ideal spot for a day of fun without breaking the bank.
❤️ Couples & Friends
In the winter, the Ice Skating Ribbon offers a romantic or playful experience, especially during evening hours. Even a simple stroll through the park, appreciating the innovative landscape architecture and vibrant atmosphere, can be a delightful way to spend time together. The park provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and a lively environment for shared enjoyment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ingenious Design of Maggie Daley Park
The park's design emphasizes experiential play, encouraging children to explore, climb, and imagine. From the winding paths of the Play Garden to the unique 'lazy river' style of the Ice Skating Ribbon, every element is crafted to offer a memorable experience. The mature trees, now reaching their full potential, are a testament to the long-term vision of the design, providing shade and beauty.
Despite its popularity and heavy foot traffic, the park holds up remarkably well, a credit to its durable construction and ongoing maintenance. The thoughtful layout, with separate entrances to playground sections, also aids in keeping track of children, a practical consideration for families.
Winter Wonderland: Ice Skating at the Ribbon
Visitors can rent skates on-site, and for those less confident on the ice, there are devices available to assist with balance and movement. While bringing your own skates is an option, the rental skates are functional, though not top-of-the-line. The cost for skate rental is reasonable, especially considering the unique experience offered.
It's advisable to book your skating session in advance, particularly on weekends or during holiday periods, as the ribbon can reach capacity. The surrounding winter ambiance, coupled with the city skyline, makes for a truly magical outing.
Conquering the Climbing Wall
While the park's website and social media often highlight the climbing wall's operations, specific details regarding certification or testing for experienced climbers can be a bit nuanced. Some visitors suggest that experienced climbers might be able to demonstrate their proficiency without needing to complete formal courses, though it's always best to confirm on-site or with park staff beforehand.
Operating hours for the climbing wall typically align with summer season schedules, so it's worth checking for the most up-to-date information before your visit. It's a fantastic way to add an active and exhilarating dimension to your park experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit