Pasteur Park, which sits adjacent to Pasteur School, is among a number of park sites operated jointly by the Chicago Park District and the Chicago Board of Education. The park district acquired most of the park property in 1948, as part of a ten-year plan to increase recreational opportunities in under-served neighborhoods in post-World War II Chicago. At the time, the southwestern section of the West Elsdon community was experiencing substantial residential growth. When the city vacated a portion of South Kolin Street and adjacent alleys in 1953, the park expanded by several acres. Within the next few years, the park district installed playground equipment and constructed a comfort station with an office and game room. The park district rehabilitated the playground in 1996. Pasteur Park and the adjacent school bear the name of chemist Louis Pasteur (1822-1895). A native of Dole, France, Pasteur is recognized as the founder of the microbiological sciences. Pasteur postulated that microscopic organisms, which he called germs, caused both spoilage in food and disease in humans. Following up on his theories through experimentation, he developed pasteurization, a heat treatment that destroys micro-organisms in food and other perishable items. His experiments also led to vaccines for various life-threatening diseases, including rabies.

Located in the West Elston Community, Pasteur Park totals 11.81 acres and features a multi-purpose room. Outside, the park offers baseball/softball/soccer fields, an artificial turf field, tennis/roller hockey courts, playground, and a sprinkler.

Park-goers can participate in seasonal sports, preschool activities, gymnastics, tap & ballet. On the cultural side, the park offers acting/drama classes, painting, and choir. Nature programs include Garden Buddies. After school programs are offered throughout the school year, and during the summer youth attend the Chicago Park District’s popular six-week day camp.

In addition to programs, Pasteur Park hosts fun special events throughout the year for the entire family, such as Park Showcase and holiday-themed events.