The Largest And Most Inclusive Playground In Illinois Is Incredible

They say Chicago is a "city in a garden" — and as someone who lived there for 7 years, I found that the city's outdoor beauty definitely rivals its incredible manmade creations. But it's when the two come together — concerted efforts to combine nature and amenities for the public's enjoyment — that the city truly shines. Though the state is filled with amazing outdoor recreation options, it's the largest playground in Illinois that truly tops the list for those seeking the ultimate play experience.

Surrounded by Chicago's famous skyscraper skyline is Maggie Daley Park, a massive park, garden, and playground in the heart of downtown.

The park is part of the larger Millennium Park campus, which is home to "The Bean" sculpture, Jay Pritzker Pavilion outdoor venue, and the beloved Crown Fountain.

At the southeast corner of Maggie Daley is its whimsical, one-of-a-kind Play Garden, which spans a whopping 3 acres. The Play Garden is made of interactive structures and sculptures made for 5-12-year-olds and is anchored by a 12,000-square-foot Slide Crater Zone with a suspension bridge, two towers, slides, and more.

Soft, colorful paths wind around the park making it easy on little hands and knees as well as strollers.

In The Sea area, kids can explore an 8,500-square-foot play loop with blue topography that showcases a large-scale boat, lighthouse tower, a whale, and viewing scopes.

For smaller kiddos between 2 and 5, The Watering Hole offers 1,200 square feet of an animal adventureland — complete with interactive animal figures and a spraying water feature.

Another option for younger children is The Harbor area, which is a 2,000-square-foot play area with a boardwalk, marina, play boats, and seating for parents.

Kids of all ages are welcome to stroll through the Play Garden's Enchanted Forest, a 3,590-square-foot network of trails filled with trails and natural features that immerse you in a magical world of urban nature.

Bigger kids can enjoy the park's enormous climbing wall or bounce around with the trampoline bungee. Throughout the park you can also find mini-golfing, gardens, and tennis courts.

So, would you add the largest playground in Illinois to your bucket list? What's your favorite play area in the state? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by checking out the Maggie Daley Park website and the Maggie Daley Park Facebook page. And while you're in Chicago, make a day out of it by seeing the famous Sue T-rex at the Field Museum of Natural History, or get the best of Chicago's food, architecture, and history in this top-rated "Chicago in a Day" tour.