After living in New Albany for several years, we discovered the magic that is Sam Peden Community…read morePark (or just Community Park if you grew up around here.) The park boasts loads of amenities in a well-kept landscape. For bird lovers: there's a gorgeous pond which is visited by a lot of ducks, geese, and local bird friends. There's a great 1.2 mile walking track that circles the park, offering views of the pond and a walk and read (single book pages at stops along the trail) for folks with kiddos. They have two playgrounds, four sheltered areas, restrooms (although I've only seen them open twice - pro tip: go to Aldi across the street from the park if they're closed - fast, easy, and clean!), a few short nature trails, green space, a sand volleyball court, soccer fields, a basketball court, and a heck of a lot of tennis courts.
I'm new to roller skating and the tennis courts here are a dream come true! Yes, this may not be their intended purpose, and yes, one tennis player one time may have gotten a bit peeved BUT there are so many courts, you don't have to feel guilty about taking away anyone's ability to play tennis.
During the week, I've never found the park too crowded. In the early mornings, virtually empty minus some walkers and tennis players. In the evening, loads more folks but still has never felt too crowded, plus LOTS of dog walkers which always makes me excited to see so many sweet puppy faces strolling around. Basketball games are generally happening. On the weekends, this place does get busy. Shelters are available for rent, so there's often parties taking place, we've seen tennis tournaments, soccer games, and more but with how large the park is, we've never felt overcrowded or like we've lost our personal space and have always been able to find easy parking. I would highly recommend this park any time of day and any day of the week.