Washington Square Park (Bughouse Square)
901 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60610
Parks
This small park is tucked across the street from the Newberry Library in the Near North Community. The park is 2.85 acres and it features a floral garden and fountain.
Washington Square Park is an active community park and a popular wedding ceremony location.
Of historic significance, in the 1910's many old mansions were converted into flophouses, the park earned the nickname, "Bughouse Square." Like Speakers' Corner in London's Hyde Park, Washington Square became a popular spot for soap box orators. Artists, writers, political radicals, and hobos pontificated, lectured, recited poetry, ranted and raved.
How to find us?
What's happening nearby...
Chicago Blues Festival
Millennium Park • Jun 05 – Jun 08
The Chicago Blues Festival shares the great Chicago-born music tradition with the world while shining a spotlight on the genre’s contributions to soul, R&B, gospel, rock…
Read more about Chicago Blues Festival
Ribfest Chicago
Jun 06 – Jun 08
Ribfest Chicago takes place every summer in the Northcenter neighborhood! Celebrating 25 years of BBQ, Ribfest Chicago continues to be Chicago’s most anticipated food festival.
Read more about Ribfest Chicago
Frida Kahlo’s Month in Paris: A Friendship with Mary Reynolds at the Art Institute of Chicago
Mar 29 – Jul 30
Unveiling Frida Kahlo’s work for the first time in the Art Institute galleries, this exhibition focuses on the celebrated Mexican artist’s first and only trip to…
Read more about Frida Kahlo’s Month in Paris: A Friendship with Mary Reynolds at the Art Institute of Chicago
