Goudy (William) Square Park — Attraction in Chicago

The playground at Goudy Square Park reflects it's location in Chicago's Gold Coast: luxurious. The current playground equipment was installed in 2014 and was made by the company KOMPAN; it has distinctive bold geometric patterns and large elements meant for traversing and climbing. There is a large and sprawling play structure intended for older children including a few slides, a large twisted climbing net, some monkey bars, and other elements. There is also an area dedicated to younger children with a smaller play structure and a play car. Lastly, there is the standard set of swings and a few sculpted animals scattered through the play area.

The other features of this park include, according to the Park District website, "ornamental metal fencing, period light fixtures, brick paths, and a limestone and bronze drinking fountain with a turtle, frog and fish produced by Walter Arnold" - luxurious indeed. The play surface is mostly soft rubber with some low walls and plantings around the perimeter. The play area is fully enclosed and somewhat shaded by large trees and there are lots of benches throughout...

A nice playground in a nice neighborhood. We came to Goudy Square Park for a playdate and had a fun time. The playground equipment was clean and there are two sets -- one for smaller toddlers and another for older kids -- as well as two sets of swings for these age groups.

Having visited many playgrounds in Chicago since our daughter became a toddler, there are certain amenities that I now look for when choosing a playground, and Goudy Square Park met many of those criteria. Soft floor surfaces (rather than wood chips or just concrete) in case your littles are still working on balance. Shade for those hot Chicago summer days. Playground equipment for smaller toddlers that is actually fun -- this one had multiple slides and few openings where I would be scared that my daughter would fall through. Bonus: Functional and clean water fountain. We usually bring water bottles since you never know if the fountains might be out of order, but it was nice to see.

One downside is that parking in the Gold Coast can be challenging, so keep that in mind...

A nice respite from the urban environment and basically exactly what you'd expect of a play lot in the Gold Coast. It's in meticulous condition and has a bit of a ritzy feel. A good balance of equipment suited in for older children and younger toddlers and babies. Fun rock climbing/bouldering elements...