In the heart of Lincoln Square at Lincoln and Montrose Avenues sits the 15-acre Welles Park, a gathering place for musicians and sports and fitness enthusiasts of all kinds. Many residents enjoy the park’s indoor pool—using it year-round for lap swims, instruction, and aqua exercise. Others visit Welles Park’s fitness center for a workout, while some prefer a leisurely game of horseshoes at the park’s outdoor pits.
The Chicago Park District installed and unveiled a green, wrought-iron, European-style gazebo on the west side of the park as a centerpiece for the Lincoln Square community. Equipped with electricity for lights and sound, the gazebo is used for outdoor concerts, storytelling and other performances.
In Spring 2010 the park district unveiled a new action packed ADA accessible/softsurface playground for community children. On the many fields at Welles Park, one can find baseball, softball, track and field, and a strong Junior Bears football program. Preschoolers get involved in tot soccer, floor hockey, tumbling and various play groups, while older children can participate in tumbling, dance, swimming and many sports. Welles Park also provides activities for adults and children who are developmentally disabled through its therapeutic recreation programs.