I think there's definitely a distinction to be made between a park and a play lot, and Privet Park…read moreis definitely a play lot. There's really almost no green space here. That's fine, but I think calling it a park is false advertising (little joke there). The history is kind of interesting, though; the city bought what was a vacant lot lot from the Turtle Wax company, and shortly thereafter it was made into a park. At the time, there was an idea to name the parks in the city after plant life, which is where the name privet comes from. The park is accessible and has a composite wood surface, but it is accessible. It's a blink-and-you'll-miss-it spot, as you might barely even notice it's there until you've driven by.

I stumbled upon Park No 419 on my way to check out Mahalia Jackson Court. I don't even know what to…read moresay about it. I actually thought perhaps my GPS was incorrect and that it wasn't a park, but I looked up the park online and there is actually a page for it, with this address. I could do nothing but gaze in disbelief at this patch of land. It's an embarrassment that Chicago Park District even calls this a "park"; it's nothing more than an empty lot. The reason I call it a vacant lot is because it's directly next to a two-flat on Wabash; it would make sense to me if it has once been a two flat that was demolished, or even if it was a lot for the place next door (which would be highly unusual in Chicago, but still more believable than calling it a park). This "park" is fully fenced on all sides; the only entrance is locked. There is no sign identifying it as a park as CPD parks do--only maps identify it, and their website as it gives the address at this corner. There are no service or playground equipment, not even a teeter totter. And CPD has the nerve to call it an "idyllic" location where families can enjoy time together. The neighborhood deserves better and CPD should be ashamed of itself.

This is a funny little park. It's not a recreational park or anything; it's in the name: It's a…read morememorial park commemorating the Catrambone family. The family first immigrated from Italy in the early 20th century, settling in the Tri-Taylor neighborhood. This park came into existence near the end of the century in 1997 to memorialize the family. There are bricks throughout this little corner of land with names of various family members, and near the park sign there's a section for members of the family who served in the military. Many of the family still live in the west side neighborhood, and this is a sweet little tribute to the 150+ members of the family who have flourished since the original five (four brothers and cousin) came to the city.