1/23/26 Weather-Related Alert: All outdoor ice rinks are closed. | The lakefront trail is closed from North Ave. to Ohio St., as are the underpasses at North Ave., Division St., Oak St., and Chicago Ave.. |The Jan. 23 Special Board of Commissioners meeting has been cancelled. | See information on Park District warming center sites here.
River Esplanade Park
This small passive green space is 1.12 acres and it is located in the Near North Community.
While there is no structured programming taking place at this location, we invite you to check out our great programs offered at nearby Lake Shore Park.
The Chicago Park District acquired property from the Chicago Dock and Canal Trust in 1988 to create this park. The River Esplanade was one of three park sites donated by the Chicago Dock and Canal Trust, the other two were Mayor Ogden Plaza and DuSable parks, to provide recreational space for Cityfront Center, a mixed-use development that was constructed north of the Chicago River. River Esplanade Park is a paved plaza with ornamental railings, benches, and plantings. This park provides an ideal place to stroll while watching boats pass by. The park stretches both east and west from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District’s centennial fountain and water cannon, designed in 1989 by Lohan Associates.
For directions using public transportation visit www.transitchicago.com.