At the south end of DuSable Lake Shore Drive, you’ll find Steelworkers Park, the perfect hidden-gem location for an outdoor 30-foot rock-climbing wall. Part of the U.S. Steel South Works plant, which shut down in 1992, it’s now the ideal place to learn how to scale an old ore wall without a gymful of people watching your every fall. You don’t need reservations most of the time, just your own shoes, harness, and helmet. The Chicago Park District organizes monthly climbs during the summer for ages 8 and up, while REI hosts events and classes that start at $69. Safety equipment is included with both. The big reward for making it to the top? A peek at the city’s skyline in the distance. 87th Street and Lake Shore Drive. chicagoparkdistrict.com
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