Ping Tom Park

300 W 19th ST
Chicago, IL 60689

On the disaster that was the Chinatown tour, Ping Tom was the shining light - and we never even made it there! That's ok. More for me. Ping Tom is a perfect example of why I decided to do the tours. I wanted a chance to highlight parts of Chicago that some folks can go their entire stay here and never experience. This is one of those spots.

Peace. I find peace at Ping Tom. Once you navigate through secret paths and cross railroad tracks to get to it, you'll be welcomed with open arms by the Four Dragon Gateway. These gigantic columns are covered with impressive etchings and gleam at night. Passing through the Gateway, you'll arrive at the China-style pavilion. Take a load off and contemplate the Chicago River. I promise you, the view will be one of the best of the River that you've ever had.

If you can motivate to move out from under the pavilion, cut left. To the right is the playground. Kids are cute and all, but I'm going for enlightened serenity not, "Timmy, sit down. Sit.Down. Honey, please don't throw those rocks. *Sob* whywon'tyoubehave?" So, cut left. If you do, you'll find concrete and dirt paths beset by those giant flowers that look like cotton balls, large bamboo trees, enormous ginko...wait a minute. It's sort of like the island of King Kong, now that I think about it. The vegetation is monstrous. But, beautiful. So, as long as none of it asks you to "feed [it], Seymour," you should be fine.

If man-eating plants aren't your thing, venture close to the water...and look up. The park is an old railyard and some of the equipment still towers above the river. The riverbank is at a bend in the river, so you can view it with some perspective to its flow. It, too, is quite pretty. It makes an impressive postcard at dusk.

Ping Tom is a respite from the insanities of urban life. Chicago is blessed to have many amazing and distinct green spaces. You owe it to yourself to experience them. Summertime lasts only a moment these days. Spend a few seconds of that time adding some yin to your yang and visit Ping Tom park.