United Center

The playground at Park 574 was designed by the firm site design in 2014 and features unique play elements set into a small hill. There is not a standard play structure but instead a series of connected standalone elements including a zipline* with circular seat, spinning elements, and a variety of net/rope climbing elements. A highlight of the park is perhaps the longest playground slide in any Chicago Park - a 22 foot slide set directly into the hill. The surface is soft rubber that is mounded and sculpted in places enhancing the play area. There are amenities like picnic tables and a drinking fountain but one amenity sorely lack is shade: this park is in full sun all day. There is also a small water spray feature just south of the playground near the southeast corner of the park. [Aside: on both of my visits (2021 and 2022) the Zipline was broken. Historical Google streetview images (2015-2021) never shows an operational Zipline.]

This playground sits in Park 578 just north of the United Center and features some interesting and unique playground equipment. Although the equipment is modern, the metal climbing structure with the colorful art on the top, the climbing structure shaped like a rocket ship, and a unique swing give this playground a unique and somewhat retro feel. There is also an area for younger children, a misting water spray feature, and a large climbing net structure. There are also several other standalone features scattered throughout the park. The play surface is wood chips and while the concrete borders provide a place to sit, additional benches and improved landscaping that could create some shade would make this space more comfortable.

The playground at Ellen Gates Starr Park is a nice playground with a water spray feature. The play structure is moderate in size and features a few slides and a few overhead elements. There are are a few standalone elements, a set of swings, and a "triple shower sprayer" water spray feature. Aside from the play elements, this site includes a drinking fountain, a few benches, and a few trees providing some shade. The play surface is wood chips and the play area is fenced from the street but not fully enclosed.

The playground at Touhy-Herbert Park is an interesting playground because it combines elements from two playground equipment companies: Dynamo and Kompan. The bright orange elements are from Dynamo are include a net climbing structure, a large conical spinner, a large net climber with triangular faces, and a set of swings. The other structure is from Kompan and is a more traditional play structure with bright colors and geometric shapes. This structure includes some rare elements including a variation on the overhead glider and an interesting 'balance beam bridge.' The park is itself is quite large and while the playground gets some shade it is mostly bright and sunny. The play area has a wood chip surface and it is fenced from the street but not fully enclosed. There are a few benches, picnic tables, and a drinking fountain for added comfort. There is also a small water spray feature located just south of the playground. All in all, this is an interesting playground!