Ping Tom Memorial Park is a riverside green space in Chicago’s Chinatown, at 1700 S. Wentworth Ave. Set on a former railroad yard, it has walking paths, Chinese landscape elements, a pagoda-style pavilion, murals and views of the Chicago River and skyline. Walk the south side for river paths, then head to the north side for grassy areas, more places to sit and the boathouse, where kayak rentals are available in summer. The park also has a playground and picnic areas, making it an easy stop before or after Chinatown.
From rail yard to Chinatown park
Ping Tom Memorial Park occupies a former railroad yard beside the South Branch of the Chicago River. It was developed in the late 1990s and opened in 1999 as the first park created in Chinatown. The park is named for Ping Tom, a Chinese-American civic leader who worked to create a community space for neighborhood residents.
The site’s past remains part of its setting. Railroad tracks and bridges sit beside the paths and river, framing views that combine the working riverfront with the city skyline. The park covers more than 17 acres and includes green space, community areas and Chinese landscape design elements.
Paths, pavilion and river views
The park is arranged on both sides of a road underpass. On the south side, a walking path follows the river. The north side opens onto grassy areas, more walking routes and sitting spots, along with the boathouse and kayak launch. Exploring both sections gives you a fuller sense of the park than stopping at the first river view.
Look for the pagoda-style pavilion and the murals beneath the bridge underpass, which depict blue porcelain and gold silk. Bamboo and gingko trees grow in the gardens. The pavilion and riverside benches provide places to pause, while several vantage points look toward the Chicago skyline, including Willis Tower and the Hancock Building.
The park also has a playground, picnic areas and athletic facilities. The fieldhouse has a second-story Skyline Patio and a green roof. Other listed facilities include an indoor pool and a fitness center; check current access details with the park district if those are the reason for your visit.
Getting there and making a visit
The park’s address is 1700 S. Wentworth Ave. The Chicago Water Taxi’s Chinatown stop is in the park, so arriving by water can link a river ride with a visit to the neighborhood. The taxi’s route and operating schedule can change, so check current service information before planning around it. The Chinatown-Cermak Red Line station is also nearby.
Walking paths and benches make the park a straightforward stop after a meal in Chinatown, and picnic areas let you bring your own food. In summer, kayak rentals operate from the boathouse, and community programming can include Shakespeare in the Park. Availability and event schedules are seasonal, so confirm details before travelling specifically for them.
If you are walking in, take care at the railroad-track crossing and watch for trains. Restroom access has not always been available throughout the day, so plan ahead. The park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM.
FAQ
Where is Ping Tom Memorial Park?
It is at 1700 S. Wentworth Ave in Chicago’s Chinatown, along the South Branch of the Chicago River.
How long should I spend at Ping Tom Memorial Park?
Allow 30 to 60 minutes to walk through the park. Add time if you plan to picnic or rent a kayak in summer.
Can you rent kayaks at Ping Tom Memorial Park?
Kayak rentals are available from the park’s boathouse in summer. Check current availability before your visit.
Does the Chicago Water Taxi stop at Ping Tom Memorial Park?
The Chinatown Water Taxi stop is in the park. Check the current route and schedule before planning your trip.
