Skinner Park

Skinner (Mark) Park, located in Chicago's Near West Side, is a 7.01-acre urban park offering a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Originally named Jefferson Park and established between 1848 and 1850, it is Chicago's second-oldest park and serves as an integral space within the West Loop community. Renamed Skinner Park in 1955, the area underwent various transformations to meet the recreational needs of the community, including the addition of baseball diamonds, a playground, and a small fieldhouse.

Today, the park features a variety of amenities, including a playground, basketball courts, baseball fields, an athletic field suitable for football or soccer, and a large dog park located across the street. Skinner Park also includes a community-maintained Tranquil Garden, an ornamental space meant for relaxation and beautification. Adjacent to the park is the Whitney Young High School, where visitors can access indoor gymnasium and swimming facilities. The park is known as a hub for community engagement, hosting volunteer activities, sports programs, and special events.

Recent years have seen a revitalization of Skinner Park, largely driven by the efforts of the Skinner Park Advisory Council (SPAC). Enhancements include the renovation of playgrounds, sports courts, and the creation of the 0.4-acre dog park. Plans for a new, multi-functional fieldhouse are under development to better serve the needs of the growing and diverse community.

Whether for athletic activities, family outings, or quiet reflection in its green spaces, Skinner Park is a vital resource for its surrounding neighborhood. The park's accessibility and mixture of recreational and serene spaces make it a staple of Chicago's park system.