Gompers Park

Gompers (Samuel) Park is a 42.17-acre green space located in the North Park community of Chicago, Illinois. The park straddles the Chicago River and features a diverse array of natural and recreational areas. Named after Samuel Gompers, a prominent labor union leader, the park was established in the 1920s and has since become a significant community asset.

The park's landscape includes rehabilitated wetlands and a lagoon with pier access, providing opportunities for environmental activities and wildlife observation. These natural areas serve as habitats for various species and offer visitors a chance to connect with nature within an urban setting.

Gompers Park is known for its recreational facilities, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups. The park features an outdoor pool, multiple sports fields and courts, and a playground, making it a popular destination for families and sports enthusiasts. The Tudor Revival-style fieldhouse, designed by architect Clarence Hatzfeld, houses activity rooms, a gymnasium, and an auditorium with a stage, serving as a hub for community events and programs.

The park offers various educational and recreational programs throughout the year, including preschool activities, youth sports, and senior conditioning classes. Environmental initiatives such as wetland restoration and stewardship programs engage the community in conservation efforts and provide learning opportunities about local ecosystems.

Gompers Park also serves as the starting point for the 16-mile North Branch Trail, which extends northward to the Skokie Lagoons, making it a gateway for longer outdoor excursions and connecting it to the broader Chicago area trail system.