Get relief from the heat at a Park District cooling center, or at a beach, pool, water playground or water feature. View sites & hours. Outdoor pools are now open for the season. For information on other City of Chicago cooling centers visit 311.chicago.gov. or call 311.
Washington Park Refectory
Located in the Washington Park/Woodlawn neighborhood, the Washington Park Refectory sits adjacent to the Aquatic Center, which houses a 36-foot water slide plus a swimming pool with a patio and fountains. The Refectory has a rich history that is interwoven with Chicago’s architectural design legends. Daniel H. Burnham & Company designed and built the pool and Russell Drive in 1891, two years before the Columbia Exposition. The Refectory features ground level colonnades and four open-roof towers. The classically designed Refectory building and grounds offer two distinguished floors: "Cafe Lounge" and "Miniature Ballroom."
Cafe Lounge: This level gives you a “bird’s eye” view of the 36-foot water slide and pool. This space also contains a fireplace (which features a remnant of the building’s original mosaic flooring), mid-room elevators and side stairwells that lead to the Tower Level, along with complimentary coffee & tea station.
Miniature Ballroom: This level provides a bright and airy panoramic view overlooking the park to the north and the Aquatic Center on the south. The amenities include a full-service kitchen and a dazzling fireplace mantle reminiscent of the turn of the century.
This facility is available for rent for such occasions as: Small Weddings, Receptions, Baby Showers, Repasts, Company Meetings, and Small Events.
Each level holds up to 100 people comfortably - 80 with dance floor.
For directions using public transportation visit www.transitchicago.com.
Interested in having your next meeting or special event at Washington Park Refectory?
Weekday and Weekend hours are available.
Give us a call and schedule an appointment. (773) 256-1897