Ping Tom Memorial Park is a short walk from Chinatown's main street and is a scenic escape with some of the best views of Chicago's skyline. The park was once an abandoned rail yard named after Ping Tom, a civic leader who advocated for a park in Chinatown before he died in 1995.
The park features a bright red, pagoda-style structure, benches that line the river, a children's playground, boathouses for kayak rentals during the summer, and a bridge that extends toward downtown Chicago -- offering great views both day and night.
During the summer months, the Chicago Water Taxi stops here from downtown Chicago -- a local hack to take a river cruise without paying the tourist price of one.
I love Ping Tom Memorial Park because it is hardly ever crowded and its 12 acres offer plenty of room for finding a bench for quiet contemplation or uninterrupted strolling with a friend.
1700 S Wentworth Ave
USD
free
3122253121
Find your way with 116 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Pasta Bowl" in Chicago boasts about being a laid-back restaurant with fresh dishes, but if you're not in the mood for a bite, they also act as a cool bar.
by
"Four Moon Tavern" in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!
by
"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!
by
The "Chicago Athletic Association" (CAA) is an elite, hidden, and multifaceted space in the heart of the Loop. The gem of this hotel is the drawing room...
by
Side Street Saloon in Lakeview is the perfect no-frills dive bar with a cozy Italian vibe in back, great pizza, pool, and a quirky neighborhood charm.
by
KOVAL Distillery doesn't only produce delicious craft spirits, they're also a city landmark — the first fully operational distillery in Chicago in years.
by
Wormhole in Wicker Park, Chicago is my favorite coffee shop in the city. When you walk in, it feels like you have stepped back in time to the '80s...
by
"Dearborn Denim" in Chicago has real, American-made denim jeans. They even lack the hems so you can have final stitches done on-site and custom for you!
by
"Chicago Magic Lounge" is in a large theater, but here they also do magic right at the bar! I recommend staying for several sets: you too will be stumped!
by
"Int'l Museum Surgical Science" in Chicago sounds a little creepy at first. It makes you grateful to be alive in the most recent era of modern medicine...
by
"Bar Roma" in Chicago is my favorite Italian restaurant in the area hands down! This is kind of a big deal, since Italian isn't even my favorite cuisine...
by
116 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 116 Insider Tips