Maggie Daley Park, Chicago

Maggie Daley Park's undulating terrain and meandering pathways create a striking contrast to Grant Park to the south, which follows a more formal layout. This unique design offers a diverse range of open spaces and active recreation areas, making the park not only a destination in itself but also a vital link connecting Millennium Park and the lakefront. Few hints, like the presence of air vents from the 1970s, reveal that this sprawling 27-acre park is built atop a 4,000-car garage, essentially functioning as an expansive green roof.

A vast expanse of open lawns forms a "valley" that extends diagonally from the southwest corner to the northeast. This open area offers awe-inspiring views of the city and is intersected by elegantly meandering pathways that seamlessly blend with the landing area of the BP Bridge. To the northwest, you'll discover the skating ribbon and climbing wall, while in the southeast, a charming children's play garden is nestled among the trees.

The park embodies a delightful blend of tranquility and playfulness, merging elements of nature with human-made structures. Towering light masts, resembling giant tripods, line the meandering paths. These masts are designed to cast a gentle moonlight glow over the park at night, although they stand out prominently against the landscape. Only time will tell if the impact of these features, as well as some of the larger structures, will be softened by the growth of mature trees.

Why You Should Visit:
This newer park offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including rock-climbing walls, miniature golf, and the irresistible skating ribbon, which transforms into an ice skating rink in winter and accommodates roller skates and scooters in warmer months. All of these attractions are entirely free, and you can savor fantastic views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago city skyline from an elevation of 40 feet!