Welcome to Northerly Island, a stunning man-made peninsula stretching along the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago. Originally envisioned by the famed architect Daniel Burnham in his 1909 Plan of Chicago, this unique area is renowned for its transformation from an airport into a vibrant park that offers breathtaking views and diverse wildlife habitats. Spanning over 91 acres, Northerly Island is not just a park but a dynamic venue that hosts concerts at the Huntington Bank Pavilion and provides an urban escape with trails, fishing spots, and spectacular skyline views.

Northerly Island was once home to Meigs Field Airport until a dramatic overnight transformation in 2003 when the mayor ordered the runway destroyed to make way for nature. Today, it stands as a prime example of urban ecological restoration. The island features a 5-acre pond that supports aquatic life and attracts migratory birds. It's also one of the few places in Chicago where you can enjoy unobstructed views of both sunrise and sunset over Lake Michigan due to its unique geographical positioning.

The history of Northerly Island is as dramatic as its landscapes. Originally created from landfill for the 1933-34 World’s Fair, known as A Century of Progress, it showcased futuristic innovations and captured the imagination of millions. After serving as an airport for nearly half a century, its closure marked a significant shift towards reclaiming urban spaces for public enjoyment and environmental conservation. This transformation symbolizes Chicago's ongoing commitment to green spaces amidst urban sprawl.

For those looking to experience Northerly Island beyond the typical pathways, consider visiting during one of its guided nature walks where you can learn about local flora and fauna from expert naturalists. Additionally, fishing enthusiasts will find the island’s lagoon a peaceful spot for catching perch or bass. Remember to check out the stargazing events at the Adler Planetarium next door; they occasionally host special sessions here due to the area's low light pollution.

Imagine standing where giant airplanes once took off and landed, now replaced by wild prairies and tranquil paths—this is Northerly Island today. One astonishing fact is that during certain large concerts at Huntington Bank Pavilion, vibrations from music performances are said to have noticeable effects on nearby wildlife behavior, illustrating an unexpected interaction between urban culture and natural environments.

After exploring Northerly Island, don’t miss other nearby attractions that enrich your visit to Chicago’s Museum Campus. Just steps away are three iconic institutions: The Field Museum with its vast collections of natural history artifacts including Sue, the largest T-Rex skeleton displayed; Shedd Aquarium which offers up-close encounters with marine life; and Adler Planetarium providing expansive celestial shows that transport visitors across galaxies—all within walking distance from each other.