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Where We Are
Where We Are
Nestled in one of Chicago’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, McKinley Park is best known for its iconic namesake park and strong sense of community. Just south of the McKinley Park Library, you'll find the Play Garden — a welcoming space for families and children — located at 3518 S. Wolcott Ave.
Rooted in Community, Built for Play
Rooted in Community, Built for Play
The Play Garden was created with one purpose in mind: to nurture the children of our community through joyful, nature-based play.
Originally part of Longfellow School, this cherished space became a neighborhood park in 1990. In 2002, it found a new steward in NeighborSpace—a nonprofit urban land trust in Chicago dedicated to preserving green spaces for community use.
In 2016, NeighborSpace partnered with local resident Katie Flores to explore a bold new idea: transforming the park into a nature play haven. With input from passionate community members and a talented design team, the vision for The Play Garden came to life.
🌱 Construction began in December 2017, and by June 9, 2018, the Play Garden officially opened—offering a vibrant, imaginative space where children can connect with nature, explore freely, and grow together.
If you are interested in renting the Play Garden click here!
The History of Our Space
The History of Our Space
1944 Children playing at the Longfellow School, original use of the space.
1944 Children playing at the Longfellow School, original use of the space.
2002 Neighborhood Park established
2002 Neighborhood Park established
2017-18 Construction of the Play Garden
2017-18 Construction of the Play Garden
More information about McKinley Park
More information about McKinley Park
The Play Garden is sponsored by QTS Data Centers
The Play Garden is sponsored by QTS Data Centers
For more information about QTS visit their website here.
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