Rutherford Sayre Park Playground — photo 1 of 1

Rutherford Sayre Park Playground

Rating

4.7(38)

Price

Free

Duration

1-2 hours

Best Ages

2–11

About

Rutherford Sayre Park Playground in Chicago's Montclare neighborhood on the far Northwest Side serves as a key community green space for a primarily residential area. With a 4.7-star rating from 38 reviews, it consistently delivers what neighborhood families need: well-maintained equipment, open space, and a safe environment for outdoor play.

Montclare is one of Chicago's quieter residential neighborhoods, and that character carries over to the park. Families who visit report a calm, uncrowded atmosphere that's particularly suitable for toddlers and younger kids who benefit from a less stimulating environment. The park complex includes both playground equipment and open green space.

One notable operational detail: Sayre Park closes at 8PM, which is earlier than the standard 11PM closing at most Chicago Park District facilities. Plan visits accordingly, especially in summer when evening park visits are common.

The Sayre Park field house runs community programs throughout the year. Checking the current schedule can reveal gym time, arts and crafts sessions, or other activities that complement a playground visit.

Parking is easy in the surrounding residential streets. The park is entirely free to use, and the surrounding neighborhood, while quiet on dining options, is safe and accessible.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Yes

Nursing / Changing

Limited

Kid Meals

N/A

Setting

Outdoor

Rainy Day

Not ideal

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Morning or early afternoon; closes at 8PM

Wait Times

No wait

Nearby Food

Montclare is primarily residential. The nearest commercial corridors are along Grand Ave or Harlem Ave, both within a 5-10 minute drive.

Why Kids Love It

Rutherford Sayre Park in Chicago's Montclare neighborhood is a well-regarded Northwest Side playground with a 4.7-star rating. It serves a neighborhood that doesn't have many standout kids' attractions, making it an important community resource — and that community care shows in how it's maintained.

What Parents Say

The area for smaller children features a strong train theme that reflects it's location next to a train line.
Google Review

Pro Tips from Parents

  • Note: closes at 8PM, not 11PM like most Chicago Park District playgrounds
  • Montclare is a quiet, primarily residential neighborhood — low traffic at the playground
  • 4.7 stars from 38 reviews reflects consistent quality
  • The field house at Sayre Park runs community programs — call to check availability
  • Address is listed without a street number — use the coordinates or the Google Maps link to navigate

What to Bring

  • Water and snacks
  • Sunscreen
  • Sports equipment for the open space

Cost Info

Free Admission

Estimated Cost (Family of 4)

$0

Tips to Save

  • Free.
  • Note the earlier closing time of 8PM versus the standard 11PM at most Chicago Park District facilities.

Hours & Contact

Hours

Friday
6AM-8PM
Monday
6AM-8PM
Sunday
6AM-8PM
Tuesday
6AM-8PM
Saturday
6AM-8PM
Thursday
6AM-8PM
Wednesday
6AM-8PM

Frequently Asked Questions

View on Google Maps

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