Milton Lee Olive Park

Milton Lee Olive III Park is a hidden gem, one of those places that would never make it in a tourist’s guide book but is loved by locals who flock here with their dogs and enjoy magnificent views of the Chicago skyline. Located in between Ohio Street Beach and Navy Pier, this park is dedicated to the memory of the first African -American to receive the Medal of Honor in the Vietnam War. Because of the glorious views of the skyline, this little park is popular with wedding proposals. Apart from the great views, don’t expect much when visiting. Chicago has sadly neglected this park and it is in need of restoration.

As a wedding photographer, Milton Lee Olive Park is a favorite spot for capturing stunning portraits. With its backdrop of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, it offers a picturesque setting that's hard to beat. The park's natural beauty provides a variety of backdrops, from lush greenery to urban landscapes, ensuring that every photo is unique. For couples looking for breathtaking wedding portraits against an iconic Chicago backdrop, Milton Lee Olive Park is the perfect choice.

Wonderful park to sit and relax, or go for a walk or run while enjoying lovely views of the skyline. I did paid street parking on E Ohio St, it was 9.5$ for 2 hours. Then i did a short walk through the Ohio St. underpass to get to the park. The park is beautiful, its so pretty with wonderful beach and skyline views. There are a few benches where you can sit and appreciate the beauty of the lake and Chicago skyline. The sunset views are really pretty. There are also spots to setup your hammock.

Swaths of green lawn gently undulate between the fountains, setting the pools at subtly different levels. The pattern of circular fountains and connecting paths becomes apparent when viewed from the nearby high-rise buildings along Lake Shore Drive. The park also features a statue, Hymn to Water, by Milton Horn. On June 19, 1966, the City of Chicago posthumously dedicated the park to PFC Milton Lee Olive, III (1946-1965), the first African American recipient of the Medal of Honor in the Vietnam War. Along with the Art Institute of Chicago’s South Garden and Navy Pier, Olive Park is one of three Kiley landscapes in Chicago. Milton Lee Olive III (November 7, 1946 – October 22, 1965) was a United States Army soldier and a recipient of America's highest military decoration — the Medal of Honor — for his actions in the Vietnam War. At the age of 18, Olive sacrificed his life to save others by falling on a grenade. He was the first African-American recipient of the Medal of Honor from the Vietnam War (Wikipedia)

If you visit Navy Pier, please pay a visit to the Milton Lee Olive Park too! Unbelievable view of the Chicago city and lake, and very accessible whether you are walking or biking 💙😉 Also close to the Ohio Street Beach but the ambience is uniquely refreshing for walking, hanging out with friends, doing photoshoots, or reading! P.S. I have seen some people take wedding & engagement photoshoots here, and I’m sure they will be memorable 📷!!