Wilson (John P.) Park
Located in the Bridgeport Community, Wilson Park totals 1.48 acres and features a small Fieldhouse for tot’s activities and table games. Outside there is an interactive water spray feature and playground. Pre-school programs are offered throughout the year, and in the summer toddlers attend the Park District’s popular six-week play camp. In addition to programs, Wilson Park hosts fun special events throughout the year for the whole family, such as holiday activities like pictures with the Bunny.
In 1930, the City of Chicago purchased approximately 1.5 acres in the Bridgeport neighborhood using Playground Bond funds. Improvements began immediately, and the park soon had a large new fieldhouse. The City's Bureau of Parks and Recreation managed the playground until 1957, when it transferred the property to the ¿ì²¥ÊÓƵ pursuant to the Chicago Park and City Exchange of Functions Act.
In 1933, the City Council named the new park Wilson Playground in honor of Bridgeport Alderman John P. Wilson (1893-1968). Nearby Wilson Community Center is also named for Alderman Wilson. Wilson served on the City Council from 1925 to 1929, acting as Chairman of council's Committee on Recreation from 1931 to 1933. In 1933, Wilson was appointed Deputy Commissioner of Public Works, a position he held until 1967. In 1999, the Park District officially designated the park John P. Wilson Park to differentiate it from a second Wilson Park on the City's northwest side.
For directions using public transportation visit .
Programs at Wilson (John P.) Park
Each Thursday from 3:45pm to 4:30pm
Except the following dates:
Thursday, Oct 30, 2025
Thursday, Nov 27, 2025
Each Monday from 10am to 11:15am
Except the following dates:
Monday, Oct 13, 2025
Monday, Oct 27, 2025
Each Thursday from 11am to 12:15pm
Except the following dates:
Thursday, Oct 30, 2025
Thursday, Nov 27, 2025
Each Wednesday from 11am to 11:45am
Each Tuesday from 10am to 11am