During World War I, Ashburn Flying Field, a pilot training facility and Chicago's first airport, was established in the sparsely-settled Ashburn community. By the late 1940s, the area's population was beginning to surge, but residents had few recreational opportunities. In 1952, builder/developer Raymond Lutgert subdivided the old air field, creating the new community of Scottsdale, named for Lutgert's son, Scott. Among the significant institutions in the quickly-growing subdivision was St. Bede the Venerable Catholic Parish, which built a temporary church at West 83rd Street and South Scottsdale Avenue before the end of 1953. Only a year-and-a-half later, St. Bede Parish had outgrown its first home, and the Bishop of Chicago sold the church property to the Chicago Park District for park development. The park district soon remodelled the temporary church for use as a recreation building, and improved the site with playground equipment, a softball diamond, and a basketball and volleyball court. In 1979, the park district demolished the original church structure to make way for a new fieldhouse, dedicated in September, 1981. More recently, the park district added a combination football/soccer field and a new soft surface playground.

Located in the Scottsdale neighborhood, Scottsdale Park totals 2.46 acres and features a gymnasium, fitness center, boxing ring, and multi-purpose rooms. Outside, the park offers two baseball diamonds, a playground & a small picnic area. Indoor & outdoor spaces are also available for rentals. 

Park-goers can participate in a variety of year-round programs including youth sports, tiny tot & preschool programs, tumbling, arts & crafts, teen club & boxing. Scottsdale Park also offers music lessons for all ages and a Senior Citizen Club. Adults can also take part in many varied fitness classes including Pilates, Circuit Training, Strength & Conditioning, Weight Training & Boxing.  During the summer youth attend the Chicago Park District’s popular six-week Day Camp program.

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