Mary Bartelme Park is an oasis for the neighborhood whether you have kids, dogs, or none of the above. The park takes up a full city block and includes a robust playground, artwork doubling as misters, dog park (not pictured), and plenty of grass for picnics & ball.
The playground is fenced in, which is great until they figure out how to get out. Truthfully, my husband couldn't figure out how to get in, so our 5 year old showed him how.
The park is located near a Starbucks, and it seemed each family had made a pit-stop there on their walk over. Wishbone restaurant is walking distance or you can head a few blocks over to Greek town for a myriad of (greek) options. Another bonus option: A pop-up juice stand is frequently spotted there, and food trucks seem to meander past from time to time.
Noteworthy:
- There are a lot of climbing structures, with a unique feature of rubber mats to climb and jump around (top collage, middle photo).
- Toddler area has 2 slides and a few teeny hammocks (we think, not quite sure their function).
- Two rope areas - the web is pictured below; and the other is a series of ropes to climb through.
- There is some picnic seating within the playground or you can BYO blanket to sit in the grass.
- No bathrooms, which may also explain all the Starbucks fans / "visits."
- What is behind the name Mary Bartelme? First Illinois judge and much more.
Cost Savings:
Free!...unless you don't luck out with the parking.
Location/Transportation:
West Loop
Green Line Morgan Station is a 10 min walk, though we typically drive.
Parking: We haven't had issues - some streets are free; others zoned or metered.
Kid's Jury: 5 stars
We love this park because we love to climb and use our scooters and bikes on the pathways.
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