About Garfield Ridge
Garfield Ridge is the 56th of Chicago’s 77 community areas, located about ten miles southwest of the Loop on the far-southwest side of the city.
Once considered the rural outskirts of Chicago, Garfield Ridge transformed into a suburban-style enclave with the arrival of Midway International Airport in 1927 and the Stevenson Expressway (I-55) in 1956, bringing new businesses and residential development along Archer Avenue.
Neighborhoods and Historic Districts
Chrysler Village: A small enclave on the eastern edge of Garfield Ridge, originally built in 1943 to house Chrysler Defense Plant workers and characterized by sturdy brick single- and multi-family homes around Lawler Park.
Clearing: Directly adjacent to the east, Clearing is Community Area 64, known for its industrial roots along railroad yards and the southern portion of Midway Airport, yet it maintains quiet, tree-lined residential streets.
Archer Heights: To the north, Archer Heights features mid-century bungalows and small businesses along Archer Avenue, reflecting the neighborhood’s evolution after Midway Airport and the Stevenson Expressway spurred suburban-style growth.
West Elsdon: Southwest of Garfield Ridge, West Elsdon offers expansive green spaces such as Meyer Park, a strong Polish-American community presence, and a mix of single-family homes and local commercial corridors.
West Lawn: Due west, West Lawn is celebrated for its vibrant Mexican cultural festivals, family-friendly parks, and close-knit neighborhoods that blend residential calm with easy access to city amenities.
Parks and Recreation
Buttercup Park: A 1.41‑acre playground with an ADA‑accessible surface, splash pad, swings, and climbing structures—ideal for families enjoying warm summer days.
Wentworth Park: Spanning 15.81 acres, this park features an indoor gymnasium, Olympic‑size pool, multipurpose rooms, sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, a spray pool, and a seasonal ice rink.
Normandy Park: Encompassing 2.90 acres, Normandy Park offers youth programs, softball and volleyball courts, and summer day camps, making it a hub for community events and recreation.
Favorite Places in Garfield Ridge
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