From enchanting gardens to blooming cherry blossoms—Chicago is known for its stunning nature. Nothing in the Chicago area, however, has yet been declared National Park worthy—could that soon change?
The Chicago Lakefront is one step closer to becoming a National Park. In three precincts in Rogers Park, a referendum on the Illinois Primary asked about designating the Chicago Lakefront a National Park. It passed with more than 60 percent of the vote. Albeit, the referendum was only on the ballot in the 4th, 15th, and 16th precincts in the 49th Ward—with a total of 1,240 votes.
Is the call for establishing the Chicago Lakefront as a National Park new?
Chicago Lakefront National Park Coalition has long called for turning the Chicago lakefront into a national park. The organization wants to ensure the Chicago Lakefront and its many parks last in perpetuity, with the parks and the shoreline of Lake Michigan open, clear, and free for all.
“We realize the challenges in managing the vast Lakefront lands, and we want to encourage partnerships realizing the costs associated with this massive endeavor,” Preservation Chicago wrote. “To that end, we want to encourage the City of Chicago and the Chicago Park District to pursue a national park designation for the entire Chicago Lakefront. Chicago can partner with the National Park Services to continue the legacy of protecting this precious resource for the enjoyment of all. Such an idea could lift and share the burden of maintenance of these sacred grounds, providing much-needed repairs to many of the park buildings and structures.”
According to CBS Chicago, creating a new national park in Chicago isn’t unprecedented. After years of lobbying, the historic Pullman neighborhood was designated a national monument in 2015.
However, if you want to visit a National Park sometime soon, head to Chesterton, Indiana. It’s ranked on our list of small charming towns near Chicago and hosts Indiana Dunes National Park, which boasts various trails if you’re in the mood for a strenuous hike or leisurely bike ride.