Cragin Park

Standing in the heart of Belmont-Cragin, Cragin Park is a haven of green, a place where community thrives. The park, a little more than three acres, was created in 1934, a product of the Northwest Park District, one of the 22 park commissions that were consolidated into the Chicago Park District. Cragin Park is named after the surrounding neighborhood, which in turn took its name from a 19th-century industrial suburb. In 1883, the Cragin brothers built their metal manufactory along the railway tracks of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad. Before you knew it, Cragin Station was bustling with activity and the surrounding neighborhood was named after the factory and the station, which would be a stepping stone to the creation of the park we see today. The Fullerton Avenue Highlands Improvement Association petitioned for a park. They were granted their wish. Cragin Park is a community hub, offering a unique blend of recreational opportunities and cultural events. The park comes alive in the summer with its beloved Cragin Playlot summer program. This popular six-week program provides a fun and safe environment for children to enjoy themselves. The kids participate in games, arts and crafts, and other activities. Kids and teens can participate in a huge range of activities at Cragin Park, like the Pre-Teen Club, Homework Time, Cubs Care baseball, soccer, flag football, sports club, table tennis, game room, basketball, and Teen Club. Cragin Park is also a place for adults, with adult table tennis, a walking club, and bingo, a stretching class, as well as a Senior Citizens Club. Cragin Park is an ideal spot for a quiet walk, a friendly game of basketball, or a picnic with the family.