Gross Park

Gross (Theodore) Park, located in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago, spans 1.56 acres at 2708 W Lawrence Ave. Established in 1952, it was named in honor of Theodore Gross, a superintendent of Chicago playgrounds for 44 years. The park provides a vital green space in the densely populated urban environment and features a balance of recreational and community-focused amenities.

This park has a rich history tied to Chicago's urban development. It was designed as part of the city's initiative to bring more recreational spaces to its neighborhoods, ensuring accessible leisure opportunities for residents. Gross Park has seen various improvements over the years, including substantial upgrades in the late 1970s and 1990s. Its restoration efforts also included recovery from tree loss caused by the invasive Asian long-horned beetle in the late 1990s.

The park is a popular spot for families and individuals, with its basketball facilities, junior soccer field, and a well-maintained playground equipped with rubberized surfaces for safety. Mature shade trees and ample seating, such as benches and picnic tables, provide spaces for relaxation. The park also hosts community events, like Shakespeare in the Park during the summer, fostering cultural engagement in a natural setting.