Step into Harrison Park, Chicago’s hidden green sanctuary—more than just a lawn, it’s a breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. Mornings bring joggers and dog walkers chatting softly, while afternoons buzz with students reading under shady trees and picnicking on blankets. The real magic? Gazing toward Lake Michigan from the park’s edge, where the skyline glows golden at sunset—pure urban poetry. Just sit on a bench, listen to the wind through the leaves, and let the quiet beauty of this bustling metropolis wash over you.




















Everything you need to know about Harrison Park
Hyatt House Chicago Downtown is a top choice located just a 5-minute walk from Harrison Park. This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi. Its prime location places guests within easy reach of the Chicago River, Michigan Avenue, and major shopping and dining districts. With a 24-hour fitness center and excellent public transit access, it’s ideal for travelers seeking convenience and comfort.
From Harrison Park, visitors can walk to the Chicago Transit Museum or take the CTA Blue Line to State Street Station, reaching Millennium Park and the Cloud Gate sculpture in just 10 minutes. For destinations like Michigan Avenue or the Art Institute of Chicago, transfer to the Red Line or Green Line, with a journey time of approximately 15 minutes. The area is well-connected by multiple bus routes and rapid transit lines, making it effortless to explore downtown Chicago’s key landmarks.
Beyond strolling through the green trails of Harrison Park, visitors can enjoy community markets and outdoor concerts that showcase Chicago’s vibrant cultural diversity. The park features playgrounds and jogging paths perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts. Nearby Northeast Side boasts charming cafés and independent eateries like Cafe Mocha, offering expertly brewed American coffee and creative dishes—ideal for savoring a relaxed moment in the heart of the city.
While not a major tourist attraction, Harrison Park offers a serene and poetic nighttime ambiance with thoughtful lighting and tree shadows. The park’s ambient illumination, combined with surrounding streetlights and residential glow, creates a warm urban atmosphere ideal for evening walks and photography. Pair it with a nearby pub or outdoor bar to experience Chicago’s laid-back night life. Arrive in late afternoon to catch the perfect transition from sunset to twilight.
Harrison Park features a well-equipped playground, picnic lawns, and running trails, making it perfect for family outings. Regular events such as parent-child workshops, nature education programs, and community gardening sessions engage children while fostering environmental awareness. Nearby, the Chicago Public Library Branch offers free children’s reading areas and storytime sessions. Parents can relax while kids play freely, creating cherished family moments in a safe, welcoming environment.
Named after U.S. President Benjamin Harrison, Harrison Park was established in 1910 as part of Chicago’s early urban greening initiative. Originally an industrial site, it was transformed into a public recreational space through civic advocacy. The park retains historic elements such as a stone fountain and memorial monument dating back to the 1920s, reflecting the city’s evolution. Today, it serves not only as a daily retreat for locals but also as a living testament to Chicago’s community spirit and historical legacy.
See what other travelers say about Harrison Park

I stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Chicago Medical District UIC and was thoroughly impressed with my experience. The room was spacious and well-designed, offering plenty of comfort for a relaxing stay. The breakfast buffet was excellent—fresh, varied, and delicious, especially the hot options. While parking comes at an additional cost, it’s worth it given how close the hotel is to downtown Chicago and major medical facilities. The fitness center is large and well-equipped, and having a pool on-site is a nice bonus for those who want to unwind after a long day. One thing to note is that daily housekeeping isn’t provided, so I’d recommend bringing your own essentials if you’re staying longer. Overall, this hotel offers great value, convenience, and a clean, modern atmosphere. I’d definitely return and highly recommend it to travelers looking for a reliable, no-frills stay in the area.

I can't recommend this Holiday Inn Express Chicago - Magnificent Mile enough. The location is unbeatable—right across from Trader Joe's, so grocery shopping is a breeze. It's just a 7-8 minute walk to Trump Tower, and less than 20 minutes to Millennium Park. From there, it's only a few more minutes to the shores of Lake Michigan—perfect for a relaxing evening stroll. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We arrived at 10 AM, and even though check-in wasn't available yet, they gladly stored our luggage at no extra cost. When we returned around 2:30 PM, we were told to wait about 25 minutes. But instead of leaving us waiting in limbo, the staff actually came to check on us—and discovered a room was already ready! They apologized and made sure we were taken care of right away. While the amenities aren't flashy, the rooms are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. For the price and convenience, this place offers outstanding value. I’ll definitely be back if I ever visit Chicago again.

Staying at Ohio House Motel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center and super convenient for public transit. I loved that I could store my luggage both before check-in and after check-out, which made our trip so much smoother. The room was spotless, fresh-smelling, and had all the essentials—including thoughtful touches like makeup removal wipes for ladies. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, going out of their way to ensure we felt welcome. Best part? We slept like babies—no noise, no disruptions, just peaceful comfort. My friends and I were so impressed we’re already planning to come back. If you're paying with cash, there's a $150 deposit required at check-in, so be sure to have that ready. Overall, this place is a hidden gem with top-tier value.

Our stay at Chicago Parthenon Hostel was absolutely fantastic! The restroom facilities were spotless, and having three showers and two toilets in the women’s area made mornings so much smoother—no long lines or rush. The shared room was perfectly sized for our group of four: cozy yet comfortable, with just enough space to move around without feeling cramped. We really enjoyed hanging out in the common area—it had a welcoming vibe and was a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. The staff were incredibly friendly and always ready to assist with any questions or requests. From the cleanliness to the warm atmosphere, everything about this hostel felt well thought out and cared for. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, clean, and social place to stay in Chicago.

I absolutely loved my stay at Hotel Chicago West Loop! The room was bright and sunny, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light—perfect for relaxing or working. I was traveling solo, and the atmosphere made it feel like a personal retreat. The location is super convenient, just a short walk from public transit to downtown. Clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—this place really delivers on comfort and value. Would definitely book again.

I absolutely loved my stay at Chicago South Loop Hotel—this is definitely my go-to choice for future business trips. The location is excellent, just a short walk from the train station and surrounded by quiet, clean streets. The room was spotless, cozy, and well-appointed with a comfortable bed that made for a great night's sleep. What truly stood out was the breakfast—huge variety, delicious flavors, and beautifully presented. From fresh pastries to hearty American classics, every bite was satisfying. It’s rare to find such a high-quality experience at this price point. I’ll be back again and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting downtown Chicago.

The moment I walked in, the place was absolutely disgusting. There were visible dried mucus-like marks all over the walls and it was clear no proper cleaning had been done. They sent a cleaner to come back and 'reclean' the room, but I had to wait outside while they did it—this is exactly where I'm writing this review now. The hygiene standards are seriously unacceptable. I strongly advise others to stay away from this property. It's not worth the price, and the experience left me completely disappointed.

My stay at Ruby Room Hotel was absolutely delightful. The room was incredibly comfortable and quiet, making it the perfect retreat after a day of exploring Chicago. It's perfectly located just steps away from a wide variety of dining options—great for breakfast, dinner, or late-night snacks. I loved how convenient everything was, and the staff were friendly and helpful. This place truly makes your visit to Chicago feel seamless and enjoyable. I’d definitely come back.

The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from the Chicago River and surrounded by great dining, shopping, and attractions. From the moment I checked in, the staff went above and beyond with their friendly and professional service. The room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a perfect bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated the delicious breakfast options—fresh, varied, and well-prepared. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed to enhance the stay. This hotel truly delivers on every level, and I’d definitely return without hesitation.

This is our second time staying at Eurostars Magnificent Mile, and we’re already planning our next visit! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown Chicago, with endless shops, restaurants, tourist spots, supermarkets, and bars just steps away. We absolutely love the on-site sauna—it’s perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring. The room is spacious, clean, and well-appointed, making it feel like a home away from home. The staff go above and beyond with their friendly, genuine hospitality. This hotel feels like a hidden gem, and it’s now our go-to choice whenever we come to Chicago. Don’t miss the downstairs restaurant, River North Bistro—especially during happy hour! The food and drinks are fantastic, and the vibe is lively yet relaxed. Highly recommend this place for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at Wicker Park Inn was such a refreshing change from the usual hotel experience. From the moment I arrived, the staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and genuinely helpful with local tips and recommendations. The room itself was beautifully decorated, clean, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I especially loved the thoughtful amenities: high-quality linens, a well-stocked mini-fridge, complimentary coffee, and modern bathroom fixtures. It felt more like a stylish boutique stay than a standard hotel. Located in the heart of Wicker Park, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods—great cafes, shops, and nightlife are just steps away. I’d absolutely book again and highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting the city.

Staying at Chinatown Hotel Chicago was an absolute delight! The room features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light—every morning felt like a fresh start. What stood out most was the excellent air circulation; even on warmer days, the room stayed refreshingly cool without relying heavily on the AC. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from downtown and surrounded by great local eateries, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Clean, well-designed rooms with thoughtful touches make this hotel a hidden gem in Chicago. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a true local vibe, this place is a must-try.
Explore more amazing destinations