A former piece of farmland turned city park makes the 135-acre Columbus Park an ideal spot for a tranquil day. Designed by Jens Jensen, a Danish landscape architect, in the 1910s, he incorporated native plant species into his prairie landscaping, an ode to the Midwestern topography. Other natural elements include tree-filled groves, a prairie river, stone works, waterfalls, and flat stretches filled with colorful native grasses and wildflowers.

The park features a golf course, boxing facilities, fitness center and gym, outdoor swimming, and an outdoor theater. Other nearby attractions include the Oak Park Conservatory, the Hemingway Museum, the Unity Temple and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.

When you get hungry, head over to Mama Thai (708-386-0100) and enjoy some Thai noodles.  If you would rather have some pizza, walk into La Piazza (708-366-4010). There is a small neighborhood bar, Empty Bottle, that you may want to visit. It is small, gets crowded and can be loud at times.

House of Two Urns B&B is the nearest hotel to the park. You can walk down to some excellent shopping and restaurants from this 3 star Chicago hotel. Or you may want to stay at the 4 star Hotel Allegro Chicago, located within the Chicago Loop business and theater districts.

Hours:
Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sat 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.  

Admission:
Free;
Facility fees vary

Address:
500 S Central Ave.
Chicago, IL 60644
Tel: (773) 287-7641

Web address: http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com