Spotlight on Ehlert Park

Nestled in a residential neighborhood on the south side of Brookfield is Ehlert Park. It was named for trustee Emil G.H. Ehlert, who made it his mission in the years after World War II to establish parks in Brookfield. At the time, Kiwanis Park was the only park in the village, but it was owned by the City of Chicago and leased to Brookfield for $1 a year. Brookfield began negotiations to purchased Kiwanis Park, as well as land for additional parks.

In 1954, the village purchased 12 1/2 acres between Shields and Gerritsen Avenues from Frank and Ottile Mancl. Five months later, Ehlert died of a heart attack, and it was decided that the park would be named in his honor. A memorial to him stands at the base of the flag pole.

Brookfield eventually purchased the rest of the land that is now Ehlert Park in several more transactions up to 1975; today, it comprises just over 32 acres and is shaped like an “L.” There are still a few residential homes bordering the park along Vernon, Prairie, and Sunnyside Avenues, so be mindful of these homes and refrain from trespassing on their property.

Getting Around

Parking is plentiful at Ehlert Park; one large lot is accessible from Shields Avenue and another from Elm Avenue, with additional parking along Gerritsen Avenue. A walking path winds throughout the park between the amenities.

Amenities

Ehlert Park boasts multiple ball fields, sand volleyball courts, tennis and basketball courts, natural areas, pavilions, an inclusive playground, and a splash pad. There’s even a skate park! In addition to some port-a-potties, there are also permanent bathrooms for seasonal use.

As you walk around the park, be sure to check out the natural areas scattered throughout the park. You may see butterflies, pollinators, birds, and maybe even a turtle or two. There’s a bluebird house near the Shields Avenue parking lot, so keep an eye out for those colorful feathered friends!

The coolest thing at Ehlert Park might be the veteran memorial: a Korean War-era North American F-86L Sabre jet. It’s near the playground and has been here since 1961 and can be quickly accessed from the Elm Avenue parking lot.

You can find poop bags and plenty of garbage cans along the path. There are lots of spots for hanging out and relaxing, so perhaps bring along a picnic basket and enjoy the entire afternoon here!

Park Safety

Not only is the park surrounded by residential homes, the fire department has a station next to the Shields Avenue parking lot. While the park is occupied by mostly moms and dog walkers in the morning hours, once sports activities pick up the park becomes a bustling place.

The walking paths are mainly asphalt, and while it’s been patched and repaired in some places, there are very few tripping hazards. If you use a mobility aid, you’ll have no problem here. There is little shade along the paths, but there are several pavilions scattered around the park that provide a cool place to stop to rest.

There is lighting in the ball fields as well as along the paths, so the paths are well-lit in the evening hours. If you’re allergic to bees, you may want to avoid the natural areas.

Final Thoughts

Ehlert Park is a great place for locals to spend time with their pups. It’s a low-key spot to hang out when games aren’t going on. Be sure to check it out!

Vital Info

• Location: 3105 Oak Avenue, Brookfield
• Hours: 6am to 10pm