Aerial view of Canal Street bridges in Chicago, Illinois, with Canal Street bridge in the foreground and Canal Street railroad bridge in the middle distance

Ping Tom Memorial Park

Ping Tom Memorial Park: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Chicago Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Ping Tom Memorial Park, nestled along the south branch of the Chicago River in the heart of historic Chinatown, is a vibrant urban oasis that reflects the resilience, heritage, and aspirations of Chicago’s Chinese American community. Established in 1999 on a former rail yard, the park honors Ping Tom—a visionary businessman and civic leader instrumental in shaping Chicago’s Chinatown—and serves as a cultural, recreational, and environmental anchor in the city (Tourist Secrets; Chicago Park District).

Aerial view of Canal Street bridges and 18th Street Bridge in Chicago, Illinois, looking southwest

Playground with colorful equipment at Ping Tom Memorial Park on a sunny day

Ping Tom Memorial Park riverfront with walkway and city skyline in Chicago

Riverfront pavilion in Ping Tom Memorial Park with traditional Asian architectural design

Historical black and white family photo featuring Tom Thompson and relatives in Washington

Riverfront pavilion in Ping Tom Memorial Park Chicago

Black and white photo of pillars at Ping Tom Memorial Park

Introduction
The Legacy of Ping Tom and Park Origins
Cultural and Landscape Design
Key Features and Facilities
Community Impact and Events
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit: Tips and Resources
Conclusion
References

The Legacy of Ping Tom and Park Origins

Ping Tom Memorial Park is named after Ping Tom (1935–1995), a prominent Chinese American entrepreneur and civic leader who was a driving force behind Chinatown’s economic and cultural development. Through his leadership in the Chinatown Chamber of Commerce and the Chinese American Development Corporation, Tom championed the transformation of a disused rail yard into a dynamic public park, filling a long-standing need for green space in the area. The park’s creation in 1999 was a milestone for the community, symbolizing both recognition and resilience (Tourist Secrets; Chicago Park District).

Cultural and Landscape Design

Designed by Ernest C. Wong of Site Design Group, Ping Tom Memorial Park draws inspiration from traditional Chinese gardens. Its thoughtfully crafted landscape features pagoda-style pavilions, bamboo groves, Chinese zodiac statues, and the iconic Four Dragon Gateway, seamlessly blending cultural symbolism with modern urban park design (World Landscape Architect). Winding paths, moon gates, red railings, and stylized lanterns create a unique sense of place, while the park’s naturalized shoreline and rolling lawns maximize riverfront views.

Key Features and Facilities

Four Dragon Gateway

The park’s symbolic entrance, the Four Dragon Gateway, marks the transition from Chinatown’s bustling streets to the tranquil riverside, featuring traditional Chinese motifs (World Landscape Architect).

Pagoda Pavilion

This riverside structure provides shaded seating and panoramic views of the Chicago River and skyline, making it an ideal gathering spot for reflection, performances, and community events (Wikipedia).

Leonard M. Louie Fieldhouse

The LEED Platinum-certified fieldhouse, completed in 2013, includes an indoor pool, gymnasium, fitness center, meeting rooms, and a green roof terrace. It serves as a hub for year-round recreation and community programming (World Landscape Architect).

Boathouse and River Access

Opened in 2013, the boathouse offers kayak and canoe rentals, a launch dock, and changing facilities. Its design echoes the pagoda pavilion and supports Chicago’s vision for a more accessible river (Chicago Park District).

Universally Accessible Playground

The park is home to Chicago’s first universally accessible playground, designed for children of all abilities and surrounded by gardens and seating areas (World Landscape Architect).

Public Art and Memorials

Ping Tom Memorial Park features several statues and murals:

Bronze Bust of Ping Tom: Honoring the park’s namesake near the pavilion.
Statue of Leonard Louie: At the fieldhouse, recognizing another key community leader.
Statue of Judge Laura Liu: North of the boathouse, honoring Illinois’ first Asian American judge.
Murals: Under the 18th Street Bridge, reflecting themes of unity and cultural fusion (Ping Tom PAC).

Community Impact and Events

Ping Tom Memorial Park serves as a cultural anchor for Chinatown, hosting vibrant festivals such as Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and the Dragon Boat Festival. The park’s open lawns, pavilions, and riverfront spaces provide venues for tai chi, yoga, outdoor concerts, and art workshops. Environmental initiatives, such as river cleanups and habitat restoration, foster community engagement and stewardship (Tourist Secrets; Ping Tom PAC).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Holidify).
Admission: Free for all visitors. Some fieldhouse programs or rentals may require fees (Chicago Park District).
Accessibility: The park is fully wheelchair accessible, with paved paths, accessible restrooms, and an inclusive playground (Holidify).
Directions: Located at 1700 S. Wentworth Avenue, Chicago, IL 60616. Accessible via CTA Red Line (Cermak-Chinatown station), bus routes, and water taxi. Metered street and nearby garage parking are available.
Pet Policy: Pet-friendly; dogs must be leashed.

Nearby Attractions

Extend your visit by exploring:

Chinatown Square and the Nine Dragon Wall
Chinese American Museum of Chicago
Historic Wentworth Avenue shopping district
McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum
Chinatown restaurants and shops

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: No, admission is free. Some programs or rentals may require fees.

Q: What are the park’s hours?
A: Daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Q: Is the park wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all facilities and paths are accessible.

Q: Can I rent kayaks or boats?
A: Yes, kayak rentals are available at the boathouse.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Metered parking is available along Wentworth Avenue, with limited spaces at the fieldhouse and nearby community lots.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, pets are welcome but must be on a leash.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Tours are occasionally offered during special events; check the park’s website for updates.

Plan Your Visit: Tips and Resources

Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the riverfront trails.
Visit during festivals for a richer cultural experience.
Pack a picnic or try local eateries in Chinatown.
Check the Chicago Park District website for event schedules, fieldhouse hours, and program registration.
Download the Audiala app for guided tours and the latest park updates.

Conclusion

Ping Tom Memorial Park embodies the spirit of community resilience, cultural pride, and urban renewal in Chicago’s Chinatown. Its transformation from an industrial site to a thriving green space is a testament to the vision and advocacy of leaders like Ping Tom. Today, the park offers something for everyone—from scenic riverwalks and playgrounds to cultural festivals and public art—making it a premier destination for locals and visitors alike. Plan your visit and experience firsthand the unique blend of heritage, recreation, and community that defines Ping Tom Memorial Park.