Northerly Island Park

Daniel Burnham originally envisioned Northerly Island as part of a chain of manmade offshore green spaces; today, it stands as the only completed island in that plan. Once host to the 1933 Century of Progress World’s Fair, the Museum Campus peninsula now nurtures an evolving coastal ecosystem.

A walking path traces the western shore toward the southern tip, winding past a five-acre pond and rolling hills. The grounds support over 150 native plant varieties and 20,000 trees and shrubs, harboring migratory and local birds alongside quiet fishing spots. The park also runs year-round programming, from guided nature tours, camping, and paddling to winter festivals like Polar Adventure Days.