Merrick Park
Merrick Park: Evanston's Rose Garden Oasis
Penny Park: A Community-Built Castle
A whimsical wooden castle playground in Evanston, Penny Park sparks imagination and community spirit for a memorable family experience.
Penny Park in Evanston, Illinois, is a unique, imaginative playground featuring a whimsical wooden castle structure. Built by community volunteers, it offers children a space for creative play and exploration.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Penny Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
6 am-11 pm
Tuesday
6 am-11 pm
Wednesday
6 am-11 pm
Thursday
6 am-11 pm
Friday
6 am-11 pm
Saturday
6 am-11 pm
Sunday
6 am-11 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From the Noyes Purple Line station, walk east on Noyes Street towards Lake Street. Turn right onto Lake Street and walk south for one block. Penny Park will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No cost involved.
Public Transport
Take the CTA Purple Line to the Noyes station. From there, walk east on Noyes Street towards Lake Street. Turn right onto Lake Street and walk south for one block. Penny Park will be on your left. CTA single ride fares are around $2.50.
Driving
From downtown Evanston, head east on Church Street towards the lakefront. Turn left onto Sheridan Road, then turn right onto Lake Street. Continue on Lake Street until you reach 1500 Lake Street. Penny Park will be on your right. Metered street parking is available, costing $2.00 per hour, with a 2-hour limit. Metered parking is free on Sundays.
Local tips
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Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more relaxed play experience.
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Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables available in the park.
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Keep an eye on younger children, as the playground's design includes many hiding spots.
Discover more about Penny Park
Penny Park, located at 1500 Lake Street in Evanston, Illinois, is a beloved community park known for its distinctive wooden playground. The park's centerpiece is a large, castle-like structure made almost entirely of wood, featuring spires, secret corridors, and imaginative play areas. Originally built in 1990, Penny Park was a community project funded by local children who raised pennies. Over 1,500 volunteers came together to construct the playground in just five days, making it a true monument to community activism. The park has faced challenges, including a planned demolition in 2013 due to safety concerns. However, strong community support led to its preservation and rehabilitation, maintaining its unique wooden design.Penny Park offers a variety of play structures suitable for children of all ages. It includes climbing walls, slides, swings, balance beams, and hidden spaces that encourage imaginative play. Picnic tables and benches are available throughout the park, making it a great spot for family gatherings and picnics. The park also features shaded areas, providing comfort on sunny days. Penny Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
A brief summary to Penny Park
Use Penny Park as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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