Wing Park | Elgin

Wing Park – In Detail
Location: 1010 Wing Street, Elgin, Illinois 60123
Size: 121 acres

OVERVIEW

Wing Park is the oldest and largest municipal park in Elgin, Illinois, with a long history dating back to the early 20th century. Named after William H. Wing, who donated the land in 1902, the park was officially opened to the public in 1903. It stands today as a centerpiece of outdoor recreation, community gathering, and historical significance for Elgin residents and visitors.

With a blend of preserved natural areas, historic landmarks, and modern amenities, Wing Park offers something for everyone — from athletes and golfers to families and cultural enthusiasts.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Origins

In 1902, prominent attorney and civic leader William H. Wing donated over 100 acres of land to the City of Elgin for public use.

The park officially opened in 1903, and within a few years, it became a hub for organized sports, concerts, and public events.

Golf Course Significance

In 1908, the city established the Wing Park Golf Course, designed by noted Scottish-American architect Tom Bendelow, often called the “Johnny Appleseed of American Golf.”

This 9-hole course was designed to make golf accessible to the working class, which was rare at the time.

It remains in use today and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009, celebrated for its preserved original layout and social legacy.

MAJOR FEATURES AND AMENITIES

🏌️ Wing Park Golf Course

Established: 1908

Holes: 9

Designer: Tom Bendelow

Par: 36

Style: Classic early 20th-century design — small greens, natural fairways, minimal water hazards

Historical Value: One of the oldest municipal golf courses in the U.S. still in operation with original layout

Public Access: Open to all with affordable daily rates and season passes

Facilities: Pro shop, cart rentals, and practice areas

💦 Wing Park Family Aquatic Center

Opened: 2002 (renovated over the years)

Size: 22,000+ square feet of water area

Features:

Zero-depth entry pool for young children

Water slides and flumes

Diving boards

Lap lanes for exercise swimmers

Splash pad/play structures

Season: Open mid-June through mid-August

Programs: Swim lessons, water aerobics, lifeguard training

Admission: Daily rates and family passes available

🎶 Wing Park Bandshell

Built: 1937

Capacity: Seating for ~300 on benches and lawn

Use: Outdoor concerts, community performances, public ceremonies

Events:

Summer concert series by Elgin Symphony Orchestra

Local band nights

Cultural dance and theater performances

Location: Set in a grassy amphitheater setting for casual, family-friendly events

🏀 Recreational Courts and Fields

Basketball courts (multiple full-sized courts)

Tennis courts (several public-use courts)

Sand volleyball court

Baseball/softball fields

Soccer practice areas

Paved jogging/walking paths throughout the park

🧒 Playground and Open Spaces

Large modern playground: Includes slides, climbing structures, swings, and shaded seating areas

Picnic areas: Scattered throughout the park with shade trees and open lawns

Open green spaces: Ideal for casual play, frisbee, yoga, or relaxing

🛖 Picnic Shelters (Available for Rental)

Shelter 1

Location: Near the playground

Capacity: 70 people

Amenities: Tables, grills, electrical outlets

Shelter 2

Location: Near golf course

Capacity: 70 people

More secluded; no electricity

Reservations can be made through the City of Elgin’s Parks & Recreation Department.

EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

Wing Park is a focal point for seasonal festivals, sports leagues, and cultural programming, such as:

Fourth of July celebrations

Outdoor movie nights

Youth and adult sports leagues

Summer music series at the bandshell

Senior walking and wellness programs

Recreation summer camps for kids

The park is also popular for family reunions, birthday parties, and informal community meetups.

ENVIRONMENT AND LANDSCAPE

Natural woodlands and savanna areas remain in parts of the park, preserving some of Elgin’s native ecosystems.

Wildlife such as squirrels, birds, and pollinators are commonly seen.

Mature oak and maple trees create shade canopies across trails and seating areas.

The landscape reflects a mixture of designed spaces and natural restoration efforts.

PARK SERVICES

Free parking lots available near all major features

Restroom facilities located near the aquatic center and shelters

Drinking fountains placed near sports fields and playground

Lighting in key areas for evening use

Accessible paths and amenities compliant with ADA standards

SUMMARY

Wing Park is more than just a park—it’s a living part of Elgin’s cultural and recreational history. With one of the oldest municipal golf courses in America, a thriving aquatic center, year-round sports facilities, and a commitment to community programming, it remains a central destination for leisure and gathering.

Whether you're golfing on a historic course, enjoying a symphony under the stars, splashing in the pool, or having a picnic under century-old trees, Wing Park offers a complete experience for visitors of all ages.