Mather Park

Need a new place to walk your dog? Look no further. The pawsome Mather Park is just waiting for you and your furry friend! Situated in the West Ridge Community, this lovely park is named after Stephen Tyng Mather, who was the first Director of the National Park Service. Like your pooch, Mather appreciated the great outdoors and he diligently worked to preserve the nation’s natural spaces.

Your pup will be glad to know that Mather Park has a furrific paved path that loops around the park. Take a couple laps around the property so your four legged pal can get some much needed exercise. The walkway passes the sports fields and courts, so your doggo can get a glimpse of the games taking place. They’ll love feeling the sunshine on their back and breathing in some fresh air. Plus, they’ll get the chance to practice their leash manners. If the ball fields aren’t being used, feel free to wander around them with your leashed pooch. Your pup will welcome a stroll across the cool grass.

Mather Park sits adjacent to Mather High School, where the Park District’s indoor programs take place. Inside the school you’ll find a swimming pool, gym, and other rooms available for park patrons. On the outside, visitors have a wide variety of activities to choose from. A couple football and soccer fields, four basketball standards, and five tennis courts are available. There’s also a puptacular playground, a sandbox, and four horseshoe pits. No wonder this place is so pupular!

Be sure to do your part to keep the park smelling fresh. Bring some clean up bags from home and pick up whatever your pup puts down. Also, your pup will be most appreciative if you pack some cold water for them, especially during the summer. No bones about it, Mather Park will make your dog’s tail wag!