Palmer Square Park

Palmer Square Park is a 7-acre green space located in the Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. The park was created in the early 1870s as part of Chicago's historic boulevard system, originally named Palmer Place before being renamed Palmer Square in 1909. It honors John McAuley Palmer, a lawyer and Civil War General who served as the 15th Governor of Illinois and as a United States Senator.

The park's layout includes a network of walking paths, allowing for leisurely strolls or invigorating runs. A running track circles the edges of the green space, making it popular among fitness enthusiasts. The park's design incorporates both recreational and aesthetic elements, providing a balance of active and passive spaces for visitors to enjoy.

In 2008, the Chicago Park District made significant improvements to Palmer Square Park. These enhancements included upgrading the running track and creating a custom-designed playground for younger children. The playground draws inspiration from the classic children's book "The Velveteen Rabbit" by Margery Williams, featuring four themed areas connected by a rabbit trail.

Throughout its history, Palmer Square Park has served as a gathering place for the community. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a popular spot for cyclists, often used in city-wide bike routes, races, and parades. Today, it continues to be a cherished green space, offering residents a tranquil retreat within the urban environment of Chicago.