Milton Lee Olive Park facts for kids
Milton Lee Olive Park is a beautiful public park in Chicago, Illinois. It's a great spot to enjoy the outdoors and see amazing views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. The park was designed by Dan Kiley. It sits right next to the James W. Jardine Water Purification Plant, Jane Addams Memorial Park, and Ohio Street Beach.
This park offers big grassy areas where you can play or relax. There are also paths perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. You'll find many benches, some in sunny spots and others shaded by tall honey locust trees. The park also features several unique fountains that create circular seating areas.
Park Features
Cool Fountains
Milton Lee Olive Park has five round concrete fountains. These fountains are connected by grassy areas and concrete paths. They are designed to represent the five Great Lakes. This design fits well with the water purification plant located nearby.
Statue and TV Show
The park is home to a special statue called Hymn to Water. This artwork was created by the artist Milton Horn.
Did you know the park was also featured on TV? It was the finish line for the 29th season of the American reality show, The Amazing Race.
Park History
Milton Lee Olive Park was designed in 1965. It was created to honor Milton L. Olive III, a brave Vietnam veteran. Milton L. Olive III grew up in Chicago. He was the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor. This is the highest military award given for bravery.
In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson officially dedicated the park. Milton L. Olive III's father and stepmother were there for the special ceremony. The park covers ten acres. It is located on a 61-acre piece of land that extends into Lake Michigan. This land is part of the Jardine Water Purification Plant. The park's architect, Dan Kiley, also worked on the South Garden at the Art Institute of Chicago.
