Ping Tom Memorial Park in Chicago, Illinois
Just north of Chinatown's central shopping district, Ping Tom Memorial Park is a tranquil oasis just outside of downtown Chicago. Once part of Santa Fe Railroad property, it transformed into a 17-acre park largely thanks to the efforts of the park's namesake, Ping Tom. A lifelong Chicago Chinatown resident, Tom (1935–1995) was a civic leader and businessman who helped develop the iconic Chicago neighborhood. He helped create the 32-acre Chinatown Square, co-founded the Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, and led the charge in developing this much-needed public park. Today, a sculptural bust in the park remembers him. The riverfront park features walking paths through prairie landscapes, a pagoda-inspired pavilion, and a boathouse where people can rent kayaks. The playground is full of Chinese motifs, and large stone benches along the river offer a great view to watch Chicago Water Taxis, boats and even crossing barges. Even though the park is a stone's throw away from the city's many trains and expressways, it remains a peaceful oasis with skyline views. Don't miss the Chinese Dragon Boat Race for Literacy, an annual summer festival that happens in the park every June.

Just north of Chinatown's central shopping district, Ping Tom Memorial Park is a tranquil oasis just outside of downtown Chicago. Once part of Santa Fe Railroad property, it transformed into a 17-acre park largely thanks to the efforts of the park's namesake, Ping Tom.
A lifelong Chicago Chinatown resident, Tom (1935–1995) was a civic leader and businessman who helped develop the iconic Chicago neighborhood. He helped create the 32-acre Chinatown Square, co-founded the Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, and led the charge in developing this much-needed public park. Today, a sculptural bust in the park remembers him.
The riverfront park features walking paths through prairie landscapes, a pagoda-inspired pavilion, and a boathouse where people can rent kayaks. The playground is full of Chinese motifs, and large stone benches along the river offer a great view to watch Chicago Water Taxis, boats and even crossing barges. Even though the park is a stone's throw away from the city's many trains and expressways, it remains a peaceful oasis with skyline views.
Don't miss the Chinese Dragon Boat Race for Literacy, an annual summer festival that happens in the park every June.