Cobb Park — Attraction in Kankakee

Drove here from Ohio to see the last remaining gazebo from the David Letterman bit "Home of the Twin Gazebos" from 1999. At first, we thought both had been torn down, which would have to be the absolute stupidest thing a town could do. We almost canceled our trip because of it. Why in the world would you tear down something that was given to you like this? Don't you realize there is an entire cottage tourism industry of people who like to visit weird, off-the-wall things like this? Thank goodness someone had the foresight to keep one.

And honestly, I know it's been 20+ years since the Letterman bit, but from our observations, we couldn't see why Kankakee could ever be listed as a worst place to live. It's just your average, run-of-the-mill town IMHO.

Anyway, thanks for keeping your one claim to fame intact! It was...

A beautiful location with deteriorated facilities. The park sits on the banks of the Kankakee River in a very recreational strip. It's common to see boaters, skiers, and fishermen on the water. The facilities are limited to a walking path, a gazebo, a covered picnic area, restrooms and tennis courts. There is a small playground, but it was damaged and awaiting repairs. The tennis courts should be a huge draw for the park, there are 8 hardcourts and half are lighted. There is also a hitting board on one court that was built by local players. Unfortunately, the courts were recently resurfaced incorrectly and the courts are riddled with gaping cracks and blinding glare. This park should be a gem for Kankakee, but the neglect reflects poorly...

Located in the Riverview Historic District in Kankakee, IL, Cobb Park sits adjacent to the Kankakee River. There are numerous beautiful old oak trees for shade and a playground and tennis court for the kids. The neighborhood is safe and there is even a Frank Lloyd Wright museum within walking distance. There are special events in the park for certain holidays and calendar dates such as an Easter Egg Hunt and a bicycle race...