Midway Plaisance

Gazing down the Midway Plaisance, have you ever wondered about its curious name? It’s a name steeped in history, older than you might think. This mile-long stretch of green, nestled between 59th and 60th streets, links Jackson Park to the east with Washington Park to the west. The Midway Plaisance is more than just a park; it’s a living testament to Chicago’s rich past. In the 1870s, famed landscape architects Olmsted and Vaux envisioned a grand connection between the two parks. They called it the Midway Plaisance, imagining a pleasure drive and even a canal. While the canal never materialized, the name stuck. The Midway Plaisance earned its place in history during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. It became the vibrant heart of the fair, hosting the world’s first Ferris wheel and a dazzling array of international exhibits. This is where the term “midway,” now synonymous with carnival areas, was born. The Exposition cemented the Midway Plaisance’s fame. It inspired the name of the Lorado Taft Midway Studios and even the University of Chicago’s football team nickname, the “Monsters of the Midway.” Today, the Midway Plaisance continues to serve the community, offering a space for recreation and relaxation. From ice skating in winter to frisbee games and sunbathing in warmer months, it’s a beloved gathering spot. Don’t miss the spectacular Fountain of Time at the Midway Plaisance, a true work of art.