Jackson Park Chicago
More than 100 years old, Jackson Park lays adjacent Hyde Park, one of Chicago's first and most exclusive suburbs. Founded in 1869, Jackson Park was home to the Columbian Exposition in 1893. Within the park stands the Republic Statue, "The Golden Lady," one of the last remaining indications of the Expo.

Accessible through South Hayes Drive, Jackson Park now features a lush, green landscape consisting of beautiful trees, acres of grass, a colorful perennial garden and reflecting ponds. Many find solace in the Osaka Japanese Garden.

While the peaceful scenery in Jackson Park is incomparable, many visitors choose to take advantage of the various goings-on within the area. Fishing is allowed in the park's many lagoons, which contain bullheads, catfish and bluegills aplenty. There are also basketball and tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, nearby beaches and an 18-hole public golf course.

It is also worthwhile to spend some time wandering through the surrounding neighborhoods. The elite Highlands District is home to some of the most distinguished and beautiful buildings in Chicago, built in the early 20th Century. These homes were among the first in Chicago to have the luxury of large yards, 50-foot lot widths and no alleys. They were built in a number of different architectural styles, including Dutch Colonial, Classical Revival, Tudor and Queen Anne.