Groups of 12 or more wishing to use park grounds, picnic in a park or rent a park pavilion are required to secure a permit prior to their visit. Designated group picnicking is available at:

Danny Cunniff Park
Larry Fink Memorial Park
Sunset Woods Park
The Preserve of Highland Park

Picnic permits are available April – November (residents may begin applying March 1) and are valid from dawn to dusk.

Application Process:

Applications for park permits and park pavilion rentals must be done in-person at the Recreation Center of Highland Park, 1207 Park Avenue West, or by calling Ann at 847.579.3103 or emailing at ascheuer@pdhp.org at least 10 days prior to the picnic date to secure a permit.

Application hours at the Recreation Center of Highland Park:

• Mon-Thu: 5:30am–6pm
• Fri: 5:30am–2pm
• Sat & Sun: 7am–1pm

12-50 individuals | $50/75
51-99 individuals I $60/100
100+ individuals I $85/140

An additional $50 damage deposit is required. Corporate and not-for-profit fees vary. Parking restrictions/limits, park district programs/events, and type of use are taken into consideration for permit approvals.

Looking for a covered space for your park event? Danny Cunniff Park and Sunset Woods Park feature covered open-air pavilions that are available for rental in addition to your paid park permit.

Danny Cunniff Park | 2700 Trail Way
North Pavilion (up to 50 guests)
The open-air pavilion is near many of the park amenities including disk golf course and fishing pond. The Pavilion is not available weekdays while summer camps are in session.
Fee: additional $90/day (dawn to dusk)

Sunset Woods Park | 1801 Sunset Road
North Pavilion (up to 50 guests)
Offers a covered picnic area, wood deck with arbor, an outdoor grill, and restrooms all in a tranquil setting. The kitchen is not available during Camp season.
Fee: additional $90/day (dawn to dusk)
Fee + Kitchen Use: additional $250/day (dawn to dusk)

Large Pavilion (up to 200 guests)
Located in the central section of Sunset Woods Park and is the largest open-air pavilion in the district. Situated near four playground areas, with four grills and restrooms nearby. Great for a large group.
Fee: additional full: $170/day or half: $90/day (dawn to dusk)

Small Pavilion (up to 100 guests)
Situated near four play areas, skate park, basketball court, two
ball fields, and restrooms.
Fee: additional $90/day (dawn to dusk)