Outdoor Spaces & Activities

With a nature-inspired playground, open park space, picnic areas, and winding pathways, the Center is a world-class destination for outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Connect with nature and surround yourself with a spirit of fun, play, and community.

Hours and Address

Opening June 2026 6001 S. Stony Island Ave. Chicago, IL, USA, 60637

Getting Here

Get directions to our Campus before you visit.

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Plan Your Visit

Explore activities, tours, dining, and shopping on campus.

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A wide shot from the lawn of the Obama Presidential Center. It features the Great Lawn covered in snow. The Museum Building is in the background. — Credit: Angie McMonigal

Highlights

John Lewis Plaza

Gather with neighbors and friends in a vibrant outdoor Plaza that sits at the heart of our campus. This Plaza is a dynamic space that brings people together and honors the legacy of U.S. Representative and Civil Rights Movement icon John Lewis.

A rendering of the entrance to the Fruit and Vegetable Garden at the Obama Presidential Center. People are shown walking toward the Museum Building in the background. It is a sunny day.

Eleanor Roosevelt Fruit & Vegetable Garden and Teaching Kitchen

Learn about gardening, food, and cooking in our Garden and Teaching Kitchen. Visitors of all ages can learn how to grow, harvest, and prepare fruits and vegetables.

Great Lawn

From casual afternoon picnics to winter sledding, enjoy a day with friends and family on our sprawling 58,000 square foot lawn. Stop by and join one of our outdoor activities hosted for the community.

More Outdoor Spaces

Playground

Delight in a variety of fun activities for children of all ages. Explore our nature-inspired Playground featuring ADA accessible swings, a duck slide, mud kitchen garden, and sensory nooks.
Ann Dunham Water Terrace

Reflect with family and friends at our terrace honoring the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother. Take a break and enjoy a stone sculptural water feature created by world renowned artist and architect Maya Lin.
Women’s Garden

Take a walk through The Garden that was designed as a tribute to the Suffrage Movement. It has been reimagined with sustainable plantings, pathways, and seating to give visitors greater access.
Wetland Walk

Take a stroll through our new sustainably designed, eco-friendly oasis. Traverse a unique environment with seating and spaces for children to play.
Promenade

Jog, stroll, or bike along our new walking trail. Enjoy the weather as you take in dynamic views of Jackson Park Lagoon and Wooded Island.
Campus Courtyards

Our 19.3 acre campus features six courtyards named after those who have inspired President and Mrs. Obama. Opening hours for the courtyards vary.