Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city to connect with the natural environment at Northerly Island. Indulge your senses with some of the best fishing in Chicago, scenic walking paths and small play areas for the little ones. Located at the center of the Museum Campus, Northerly Island is a 91-acre peninsula. The area is mostly a nature retreat with a field house and knowledgeable staff, but is often used as a popular concert venue in the Charter One Pavilion.

Designed by legendary architect, Daniel H. Burnham, Northerly Island, along with Burnham Park, was chosen to host Chicago’s second World’s Fair, themed “A Century of Progress.” The original plans included a grand scenic drive, harbors, lagoons and beaches. In 1947, an addition of the small Miegs Field airport was added. The lease expired from the Chicago Park District in 1996 and the decision was made to revert the design back to the original open parkland.

Today, winding walking paths and prairie grasses highlight the Northerly Island terrain. Northerly Island is also home to the Flint Creek Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, a refuge for injured birds of prey and songbirds. A field house on the property has knowledgeable staff that may offer useful tips and facts about preserving the environment. The open landscape provides a beautiful view of the Chicago skyline.

Charter One Pavilion features family matinee shows as well as concert tours from popular artists. Northerly Island is ideal for the nature lover as well as the pop culture enthusiast.