West Side Park

West Side Park Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: What to Expect at the Site of West Side Park Chicago

Chicago’s West Side Park, though no longer standing, remains a celebrated symbol of the city’s sporting and cultural heritage. Once the home of the Chicago Cubs during their legendary early 20th-century run, the park’s grounds were the scene of multiple National League pennants and the Cubs’ historic 1907 and 1908 World Series victories. Today, the area is transformed, but its legacy is honored through commemorative markers and rich neighborhood history. This guide details the story of West Side Park, practical visitor information, and nearby attractions—perfect for anyone eager to explore Chicago’s dynamic West Side and its baseball legacy (Stadium Sites; Chicago Tribune; Gateway Travel).

Introduction
History and Evolution of West Side Park
- West Side Park I (1885–1891)
- West Side Park II (1893–1915)
Historical Significance and Key Events
Visiting the Former West Side Park Sites
- Visiting Hours and Accessibility
- Guided Tours and Photo Opportunities
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Highlights
FAQ
Conclusion & Visitor Resources

History and Evolution of West Side Park

West Side Park I (1885–1891)

Opened in 1885, the original West Side Park was bounded by Congress, Loomis, Harrison, and Throop Streets. Its small, unique field dimensions led to high-scoring games and a lively spectator experience. The park featured wooden stands and a popular bicycle track, accommodating around 10,000 fans. The Chicago White Stockings (now Cubs) called it home during their 1885 and 1886 pennant-winning seasons. The site now houses the Chicago World Language Academy at 1340 West Harrison.

West Side Park II (1893–1915)

Relocating a few blocks away, West Side Park II opened in 1893, bordered by Taylor, Wood, Polk, and Wolcott Streets. Designed for larger crowds and improved amenities, it quickly became the focal point of Chicago baseball. The Cubs’ greatest successes—including four NL pennants and consecutive World Series wins—unfolded here. The park’s urban location and community atmosphere echoed the neighborhood-centric spirit that would later define Wrigley Field.

Historical Significance and Key Events

West Side Park II was the setting for some of baseball’s most storied moments:

Cubs’ back-to-back World Series titles in 1907 and 1908.
The 1906 season, when the Cubs set a National League record with 116 wins.
The 1906 cross-town World Series between the Cubs and White Sox.
The famed Tinker-to-Evers-to-Chance double-play trio.
Presidential visits and citywide celebrations, including flag-raising ceremonies marking team triumphs.

The park also contributed to baseball vernacular, with the phrase “out in left field” believed to have originated here, referencing the nearby psychiatric hospital (Stadium Sites; The Gold Nuggett).

Visiting the Former West Side Park Sites

Visiting Hours and Accessibility

West Side Park I Site: Now the Chicago World Language Academy, visible from the street at 1340 West Harrison. School grounds are publicly visible during daylight hours.
West Side Park II Site: Now part of the University of Illinois Medical Center (UIC) campus and the Illinois Medical District. The grounds, including the commemorative plaque at 912 S. Wood St., are accessible during standard business hours (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–6 PM). No tickets or entrance fees are required for the public areas.

Both sites are accessible via CTA Blue Line (UIC-Halsted or Illinois Medical District stations) and bus routes. Limited parking is available; public transit is recommended.

Guided Tours and Photo Opportunities

While there are no dedicated guided tours for West Side Park itself, several Chicago historical tours include stops or references to the ballpark sites. Local historical societies occasionally host walking tours during heritage months or baseball anniversaries. For current offerings, consult organizations such as the Chicago History Museum or community groups.

Photo highlights include:

The historical marker at 912 S. Wood St.
UIC campus plazas and public art.
The Michael Jordan statue at United Center.
Garfield Park Conservatory’s lush displays.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Highlights

Explore Chicago’s West Side beyond the old ballpark:

Garfield Park & Conservatory: Open daily, 9 AM–5 PM, with free admission and seasonal exhibits (Gateway Travel).
Union Park: Athletic fields and playgrounds, open 6 AM–11 PM (Chicago Defender).
Douglas Park: Community gardens and sports facilities.
United Center: Tours and events at the home of the Bulls and Blackhawks (Time Out Chicago).
Little Italy & Greektown: Dining, shopping, and cultural immersion.
Maxwell Street Market: Sundays, 7 AM–3 PM.
Pilsen Neighborhood: Renowned for vibrant murals and Mexican-American heritage.
The 606 Trail: 2.7 miles of elevated park and trail, open 6 AM–11 PM.
DuSable Museum: African American history, open Tuesday–Sunday (TourScanner).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the actual West Side Park today?
A: The original ballparks are gone, but the locations can be visited, including a commemorative marker at 912 S. Wood St. on UIC’s campus.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Local historical groups and some city walking tours include the sites, especially during special events. Check with the Chicago History Museum or local organizations.

Q: Are there entrance fees or tickets?
A: No fees are required to visit the sites, nearby parks, or to view the commemorative plaques. Tickets are required only for certain attractions or events, such as games at United Center.

Q: What are the best nearby attractions?
A: Garfield Park Conservatory, Union Park, United Center, Little Italy, Greektown, Maxwell Street Market, and the 606 Trail.

Q: Is the area safe?
A: The UIC campus and parks are generally safe during the day. Use standard urban precautions after dark and for less-trafficked areas.

Conclusion

While West Side Park’s physical stadiums have been replaced by modern institutions, their story remains woven into the fabric of Chicago’s history. Visiting the area offers a unique connection to the glory days of Cubs baseball and the resilient, evolving neighborhoods of the West Side. Engaging with commemorative markers, local tours, and vibrant nearby attractions, visitors can appreciate the deep roots and ongoing legacy of community, sport, and culture in this storied part of Chicago.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For an enriched experience, download the Audiala app for guided tours, interactive maps, and insider tips. Stay updated on events and Chicago’s historical sites by following us on social media.