Elmwood Park

0.3 mi

I love the Independence Civic Center. This facility is home to the recreation center and community…read morecenter, as well as a branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library (separate listing). The convenience of having all these facilities in one place cannot be oversold. On the rec side there is an indoor swimming pool with hot tub, sauna, steam room, and children's pool, locker rooms, pool table, gymnasium, racquetball court, running track, cardio and strength training equipment, as well as a studio for classes. The membership is limited to Independence residents, and is extremely affordable. They also offer a variety of classes and programs, which cost extra but are mostly cheap. The community side has several meeting rooms that can be rented out and configured to different sizes, a childcare room, and a lounge with couches, piano, and fire place. My favorite part of this facility is the center courtyard with two-story glass walls. It really brightens up both the community side and recreation side, and makes working out so much more pleasant, especially in the winter.

My African American friend (I'll call her "R") and I entered the Independence Civic Center and felt…read moreunwelcomed from the start. As we entered the doors, a group of teenage girls immediately gave her condescending looks up and down. After walking past them, I turned around to see them laughing, pointing, and taking pictures of her. In addition, when we approached the front desk, (with smiles and positive attitudes) we were met by 2 very nice, welcoming ladies. However, one lady (I'm assuming a manager of some sort) (short, gray hair, and glasses) came out of the back room to assist us. She was happy to assist me, but the second she noticed "R," her whole demeanor changed. She was rude and short with us from that moment on. I am DISGUSTED by this BLATANT racism and discrimination in 2019!!! All in all, I would NOT recommend this establishment to anyone. It's definitely worth your while to drive down the road a little bit and find a rec center that won't discriminate you based on the color of your skin.

Brecksville Community Center

(4 reviews)

4.7 mi

Nice, clean and we'll maintained facility. Good staff. But, parents of little campers bring in…read moretheir little ones (not vaccine eligible) inside the facility without masks! CDC guidelines are: Only vaccinated persons can be indoor without masks. Non vaccinated persons must wear masks! Parents, protect your precious kids as they are not vaccinated yet again covid-19. Be proactive.

This place is beautiful inside and really makes working out a pleasure. Other community centers…read morehave nothing on Brecksville's. They only allow residents to join, which really helps keep the place nice. Residents know it's a privilege to use the facility, and they generally take pretty good care of it. The equipment is maintained well and worn out pads are replaced in a timely fashion. The staff is friendly and people are polite here. My only minor complaints would be they're only open until 10pm most nights, and renewing your membership can be difficult if the new worker doesn't know what they're doing. Other than that, excellent.

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House Three Thirty

(10 reviews)

20.7 mi

Who knew that this place had so many cool things in it?!? I came for the opening of their new…read morerestaurant, Buckets and was pleasantly surprised to see that there was also a Starbucks, cabaret theater, LeBron Jones memorabilia shop, candy store, and grab-and-go beer spot. There's also great lounge and seating nooks. I think there's even more downstairs. I'm not super familiar with the LeBron James Foundation's work in Akron, but this space feels like a great gathering spot for the community.

Visited House 330 on July 19, 2025 for their first ever Farmers Market. I stopped in a shop…read morecontaining a variety of things to purchase. I liked a reusable Tote bag. I asked the cashier how much it was and she stated $17. I decided to look around the Farmers Market first and get the Tote on my way out. I came back and got the Tote, it rang up at $18 this time with tax and asked if I wanted to add a tip. I said No and continued my purchase. When I got home, I looked at the receipt and saw not only was the Tote a dollar more, but a $3.60 tip was added after I said No. I like the Tote but I do not like being ripped off.

The Starbucks at House Three Thirty is a welcoming spot to meet, relax, or get some work done.

Secret Coffee is a free-to-use meeting space with a table for 10. Great for small groups, catch-ups, or community work.

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Tucked behind a bookshelf in Starbucks, Secret Coffee is available for meetings, convos, or studying.

Caps Fieldhouse

1.6 mi

Amazing, clean , well powered, and a beautiful facility!! Not to mention the awesome Team at CAPS,…read morealways there to help with a smile! Awesome vibes all around!!! Amazing concession stand area & soon to be open and running to serve everyone's needs! (We hear you and promise we are working to make it the best indoor facility in CLE) Great space for parents, running kids between after school sports and events, to step away, and get back to those last minute end of the day work emails while your kiddos are doing their pre-game work outs! Thanks to everyone for their patience as we start the next phase of the concession area!! We are just as excited as you and cannot wait to expand and make your experience, even more awesome than it already is when you visit us! *** Don't forget to like, comment, and share on Facebook, Google, and Instagram!!! *** The BEST compliment one can give is a referral or social media shout out and review!!! (Don't forget to share pictures of all your VIP players, which are each and everyone of them, and the awesome Coaches, who guide, mentor, and teach the kids of the world, how to be awesome on all levels!) And drop your card at our front desk, and let us know, how we can keep it local and support you! Help us hit our goal of 500 Google reviews by 2/01/2024!!! (It is the gift that keeps on giving without spending a penny!) CAPS FIELDHOUSE MISSION STATEMENT: At CAPS Fieldhouse, our goal is to provide Northeast Ohio with the opportunity to enjoy their passion and culture of sports, physical fitness, and entertainment, in a family-friendly environment. With 80,000 square feet of space suitable to multiple field sports, performance training, and organization rentals, we accommodate, train, and facilitate the goals of all athletes from beginner to pro. Our management and staff take pride in delivering stellar customer service and offering the most personalized experience. We are committed to understanding and helping our customers achieve their fitness and or event goals. 6060 W Canal Road, Valley View OH 44125 216-524-2077 Contact@capsfieldhouse.com #baseballtrainingfacility #softballtraining #flagfootball #Lacrossetraining #indoorturf #soccertraining #clevelandohio #corporateevents #HostYourEventHere #imaginethepossibilities #weightroom #battingcages #coedsoccer #MensSoccerTeam #womenssoccerteam #TeamPractices #indiviudaltraining #individualpractice #leaguegames #tournaments #letushostyou #sportcamps #recreation #celebrations #yearroundrentals #versatilefield #OnlineReservations THANK YOU FOR YOUR TRUST AND CONFIDENCE IN OUR CREW!! WE HAVE SOME RAW TALENT HERE!! CALL TODAY TO FIND OUT MORE!

Nice facility. It is clean, has decent seating for spectators and nice amenities. However, parking…read moreis limited.

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Estabrook Recreational Center

(1 review)

5.9 mi

This is a great community Rec center! Really nice gym space and the pool is great too. The only…read morereason a star down is because it gets so hot in the gym and lockerroom, it makes people need to take a break outside to escape the heat.

Polish American Cultural Center

(1 review)

5.1 mi

Polish American Cultural Center is a building that contains a museum, Polish Club, reception hall,…read moreand community center for Polaks and anyone curious about the Polish culture. The center is located in the Historic Warszawa District of the Slavic Village. I ventured out to the museum as part of the Take a Hike Program showcasing Polish heritage. I was really impressed with the center, it's one of the more developed cultural centers in the city. I've been to quite a few - Slovenian, Ukrainian, Finnish, and Croatian. MUSEUM: The museum occupies two floors of the center. Every room focus on a certain theme. My favorite was Folk Room. It contained a vibrant selection of dolls, costumers, eggs, and wooden eggs. It likely resonated most with me due to the closeness of my own culture. Other rooms were dedicated to famous Polish figures, and periods in time (such as wars). Various rooms have gorgeous wooden Polish eagle plates, statues, paintings, and other art forms. It's a very comprehensive overview of culture. POLISH CLUB: The Polish Club is located in the basement. There is a hall and kitchen as well as the bar. During my time the club the ladies of the club cooked delicious pierogis and noodles. My favorite was refreshing Żywiec from Southern Poland with spring water. I'm not a big beer drinker but this beer was surprisingly bright and refreshing. You can access the Polish club by purchasing the membership on their site. Various tiers are available starting from $25 per year. EVENTS: Museum volunteers shared that various events are hosted at the center. There are Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations with Polish twist, and upcoming concert series. PARKING: Parking is available at the parking lot across the street. It's well lit and guarded. I felt pretty safe despite this being not the best area. I recommend checking out this center to learn about Polish history and also neighborhood's rich history. Check out local Polish churches and establishments while in the area. I plan to be back for Polish concerts!

Museum

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Cuyahoga County Public Library - Independence Branch

3.7

(3 reviews)

0.8 mi

I come here typically to print out shipping labels. The staff are always helpful if I need to print…read morecopies or fax something. I would like to check out the book sale in the future but usually I don't find anything of super interest. A nice chill place to read and do computer work. Would like to try a library activity - the arts and crafts program they had in March 2025 making yarn gnomes filled up pretty fast!

This is a comparatively small branch of the Cuyahoga library system, but that hasn't been a problem…read morefor me. I can still order anything I want online from the Cuyahoga system or Ohio Link, and they'll have it waiting for me at the front to come in and pick up. I love the new self check out system. They have a good rotation of programs and speakers for children and adults. I love the convenience of having it attached to the rec center!

West Creek Reservation

(21 reviews)

2.4 mi

Great trails and activities. Beware of ticks. Even at the…read morepicnic tables by the parking lot, I had ticks crawling on me. I usually do the loop around the grassy area, but there are trails that goes through the woods too.

I love the Metroparks, and this park is a big reason why. It has a little bit of everything- paved…read moretrails, trails through the woods, plenty of pavilion space, multiple parking sites, clean bathrooms, nature center, water fountains, educational programs, festivals...the list goes on and on. Every time I'm in the area, I stop by.

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Edgewater Park

4.3

(159 reviews)

8.9 mi

Oh the love of Edgewater spark, once a blight in the 80s and 90s, we would packed a cooler and sit…read moreon the beach, a bit Leary of the activities going on around you, but now you can spends days exploring the beach house, enjoy ice cream at the snack shack or play volleyball at the beach side courts. The Cleveland Metroparks has transformed the culture of Edgewater for a new generation. You can find after work and enjoy a walk through the trails, ride your bike from the Detroit or Gordon Square neighborhoods, enjoy the park at the top of the hill next to the pavilions or dock your boat at the marina, the possibilities are endless...heck you can even get married under the weeping willow!

I have to say I do love this park. Upper and lower…read more Upper has a full playground, covered pavilion picnic area, grills, Cleveland sign, restrooms, lots of grass and area to run and move. Lower has the beach, volleyball, concessions, bar on top, seats, restrooms, pier, lots of grass and grills but no pavilion. Parking for upper or lower is easy but both parking areas are separate. You cannot get to one through the other. You actually have to drive out of the park to other entrances to access each area. There is plenty of walking, running, biking, scooters, trails. And plenty of grass area in both to play soccer, baseball, football, frisbee, kites, almost anything. There is even a dog beach. Lots of things to do and to enjoy yourself outside. You cannot even bring a sandwich, chips and a drink or whatever and have a spontaneous picnic. The other fun thing to do is watch the air show from here. It's free and you see most of it. You even get buzzed by a plane or two. This is an enjoyable park. I wish it was closer to me. You cannot even bring even get a great pic of Cleveland and one of the Cleveland signs.

Sunday, 26/02/2023 -- Lake Erie in the background at Edgewater Park.

Beautiful day out

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Walnut Beach Park

(8 reviews)

56.3 mi

Always a good time going there. Usually end up finding a decent amount of beach glass.read more

Lovely less crowded beach than many along the Coast. Found lots of beach glass in a short period of…read moretime, was able to give my doggie a brief walk also. Highly recommended

Nice evening on Lake Erie.

The boardwalk beckons...

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Parma Heights Pool

(4 reviews)

6.0 mi

If you live in Parma heights it's completely affordable and it has multiple pools and slides for…read morebig kids and adults and slides and a splash pad for little kids.

Wonderful place for the kids, a lot of bees around but it's so fun! A little overpriced for the…read morelittle kids and also Parma residents have to pay .

Splash Zone Aquatic Center

3.5

(8 reviews)

30.6 mi

Outdoor pool My kids…read moreloved it! I have been to splashzone for years and this was my first time utilizing the outdoor pool. It costs $8 per person no matter the age. We had three young children with us. You enter through the main pool area and walk to your right out a set of doors. There is a large pool area that is sectioned off for different uses. There is a gradual entry area with a water playground for kids, this is connected to the main part of the pool that gets about 5 feet deep. There are 2 slides that you have to be 48 inches to ride. The lifeguards have a break for 15 minutes after 45 minutes of swimming. All kids have to get out of the water. While waiting there are lots of lounge chairs, a snack shack offer ice cream, hot dogs, pretzels, etc. along with a playground and swing area for the kids. There are also two indoor areas you can take the kids to play with the frog pool for younger kids and the indoor water playground.

Here's a clean, readable Yelp-style review that keeps your experience intact but flows more…read moresmoothly and sounds polished: First Visit to Splash Zone - Overland, Ohio This was my first visit to Splash Zone in Overland, Ohio. Registration is a bit of a process. You first have to create a profile through the Lorain County Metro Parks system, then return to the Splash Zone site to register for a specific program on a designated day and time. Once registered, the system shows your cost--mine initially showed $0. I arrived about 30 minutes early on the morning of my class, which turned out to be helpful because I had to re-register in person. After completing that, I was told there would normally be a $3 fee due to my SilverSneakers account. However, the woman at the front desk kindly let me attend for free that day, explaining that future visits would be $3. Since I'd never been there before, I had to navigate through several locker and pool areas. There are multiple pools separated by glass dividers with automatic doors--someone shared a helpful tip that the small black box above the door shows which side to stand on to trigger it. The instructor came in without much of an introduction, set up a small carry-on-size speaker, put on her headset, and began the class. The workout was aqua Tabata (a Japanese-style interval workout): 20 seconds of fast-paced movement followed by 10 seconds of rest. The class lasted 45 minutes. I stayed for about 30 minutes, choosing to leave early since shower space is limited and I like to be considerate of others. The workout itself was excellent, and being in the water felt really good. The showers, however, were not great--hair on the floor and a general "public park" feel, even at 10:30 a.m. I was glad I wore water shoes. On the plus side, the water temperature and the very hot shower afterward were appreciated. The instructor mentioned that this is her business and encouraged people to connect on Facebook (with a profile photo), and it's clear she's very talented. Overall, despite a few logistical and cleanliness issues, I'd go back again--and next time, I'd happily pay the $3 when I'm in town.

I went for aqua aerobics. These signs were on the wall for motivation.

Main pool.

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Ew- hair in the shower.

Fore Corners Mini Golf

(9 reviews)

7.4 mi

Great place to play mini golf. The course is well kept and the vibe is nice. I got a hole in one on…read morethe last hole, first time visiting.

This is, by far, the most well kept mini golf course we have ever played! It was exceptionally…read moreclean, including the water features. The carpet was in tiptop shape. The music was pleasant. Landscaping was perfect and while we are nearing the end of season, flowers & bushes were blooming nicely. The course, while not too difficult, was challenging enough. We love it here!!

Great water features and landscaping.

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Sweeties Golfland

3.9

(36 reviews)

5.2 mi

This looked like such a cute course with the candy sculptures throughout the course. Unfortunately,…read moremost of the lights did not work so we could not see the holes. The holes were rather boring too from what we could see. Almost every hole was hit the ball over a small hill or around a curve. For $11, we expected the maintenance and upkeep to be much better. The course was also overrun by skunks. Luckily they didn't spray, but it was very scary. Don't waste your money going here after dusk. Supposedly the manager has been made aware, but no fix after a few weeks according to a staff member.

The cow billy was really cool! MOO! It was a pretty scenic…read morepath - there were few bugs but all and all it was some great fun with some big lollipops:) (sick candy warehouse!! )

Things to do in Independence

Lots of benches

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Course

West Creek Reservation

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Sleepy Hollow Golf Course

3.5

(19 reviews)

5.3 mi

Sleepy Hollow Golf Club is located at the Brecksville Reservation. The golf club is Cleveland…read moreMetroparks' owned. It has long history in the city starting from 1924. Back then it was a private country club later opening to public play in 1963. My review is not so much of the golf but of the winter activities taking place at this facility. In the winter this golf course offers a vast territory for skiing. CLUB: The club is simple inside with event space, the Valley View Room. The space features a bar, tables, chairs and a projector. It is rentable. It's a blank canvas room with one open space and neutral colors. Signage at the club indicated that 2026 Bonus Rounds have $35 annual fee. This included specials like discounts on green fees, advanced tee time, entree item discounts at Golf Concessions, and more. That seemed like a deal to a non-golfer like myself. In season, Metroparks offer different golf clinics to sharpen your skills. The trail has helpful indicators regarding whether it is open or closed. Ski rentals do not seem to be offered at this location. WINTER ACTIVITIES: The golf course transforms into winter activity central in the winter. Locals utilize the golf course for skiing, snow shoeing, and hiking. Based on the number of visitors on a frigid, icy winter night, it's a popular destination. You can easily look up trail conditions online and see if the trail is open during designated hours. Introduction to Cross-Country Skiing is offered at this location and hosted by Metroparks. They call it "Nordic style." The class is only $10 that includes ski rental. The class begins at the clubhouse with overview of skiing styles and equipment purchase tips. The class commences despite weather meaning it is indoor and outdoor. If there is not enough snow, the class practices inside. My class had the opportunity to practice outside which was so fun! I haven't been skiing in over 30 years so skill refresh was a great idea. There were various options for skiing - a trail and a small hill. I had so much fun reliving my favorite winter activity. SERVICE: Metroparks staff and volunteers were very friendly! The overview of skiing equipment was especially helpful. They provided specialized care to some of the participants who were less talented in skiing (myself included). I felt very engaged in the program and loved interacting with staff. I really that every student in that class felt personal attention. I really enjoyed winter program at Sleepy Hollow. It's great to see park visitors enjoy this space even in winter. If you're looking to venture out and try something new during off-season, try the classes at Sleepy Hollow. I'll be back in the spring to golf!

The course it self was good, but the ranger was very rude and stole my ball right in front of my…read moregroup, then continued to say they didn't see it. Also keep pushing us forward saying we were "bottle necking" as a group of 20. Also rushing through the turn while we were waiting on food that wasn't made yet. My experience was horrible and I won't come back again!!!

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Elmwood Park - communitycenters - Updated August 2026

Best of Independence

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Chestnutt Hills Playground

(3 reviews)

The park is amazing so much to do really big space with little store fronts slides walls to climb…read morecastles with different colors shapes and sizes very clean all of the ground is rubber so if your child falls it's padded water fountain restrooms picnic area just a wonderful place for kids

I enjoyed taking my kids to this park. There are plenty of things to do here and being that it has…read morea "castle" theme helps to differentiate this park from others. There are plenty of places for the kids to run around and hide. The playground has a small area for toddlers to play including a "sandbox" area. There is a shaded shelter for parents to hang out. There are balance beams, "twisty" slides, various types of swings.

Preston's Hope

4.3

(30 reviews)

I was in the area from Pittsburgh and was looking for an outdoor activity for my 7 year old. Found…read morethis playground online and really loved that it was made for kids of all abilities. The space is set very nicely - with areas for parents to sit that are shady or sunny. The activities are impressive, as the little (big) buildings for the kids to play in really allow for them to use their imaginations to play. Great to see a playground have both the physical activities and imagination type of activities. We really enjoyed it and will return when we're in the area again. The only negative, which doesn't really reduce my rating at all, nor does it keep the kids from having fun, is the fact that some areas do need some repair work. This is why it's important to leave a donation on your way out, if you're able. Hopefully this park can be maintained for years to come!

Amazing playground!!! Will visit often. Huge play areas. All equipment in good working orderread more

Madison Park

(4 reviews)

Reviewing the playground:…read more I love that the ground has that soft material and not wood chips. The playground has a huge umbrella in the middle with a conveniently placed bench. There is a big kids and little kids jungle gym. This playground is very clean. Nice families around. Plenty of shaded tables and benches. We visited OH and stopped here to tire the kiddos.

Madison Park is akin to the Madison Library branch. Both are underused and located in the neglected…read moresoutheast quadrant of Lakewood. Madison Park is where the rough kids who went to Emerson Middle School (Steve L.) hung out in the 90's. I saw Big Chuck and Little John play celebrity softball in the park. There is a decent community pool complete with a slide for thrill seekers. There is a lot of chatter around town about Gordon Square, North Collinwood, Ohio City and other neighborhoods getting hip. I hope that Birdtown in Lakewood can make the same transition. Madison Park serves as the anchor.

Riverside Park

(3 reviews)

This is a wonderful park to take young children to. You walk along the Chagrin Falls River. There…read moreare many ducks for everyone to see. As you keep walking there is a fun playground for children to play on.

This park is by the falls in Chagrin Falls. It's a large Village park that is easy to walk. The…read morelarge grassy area beckons to kids, small groups, small classes, exercising, or nature sightings of birds, flowers and plants. A small playground is always busy. The path comes out at beautiful flower gardens by the public library.

Martin Park

Cute little park in the middle of a neighborhood of Rocky River. There are 2 sets of playground…read moresettings and a nice pavilion. And even restrooms too! A large court and lawn with soccer nets up as well!

I visited this small hidden park on a Sunday evening and I found it to be a peaceful place. Hidden…read morein that it's not off of a main road, but instead off a cul de sac back behind houses and it appears it's mostly used by near by locals.They have a paved walking track that encircles the park; it's probably a 1/3 of a mile? There is also a playground, basketball court, soccer field, and grass filled baseball diamond. Nothing fancy, but the grounds seem to be well kept, although probably not highly used. There are a couple parking spots, a picnic shelter and a restroom. My only disappointment was that the water fountain did not work. Typical park rules like open from dawn to dusk, pets on a leash, pick up your dog poo, and no alcohol. I would definitely visit this park again, especially if I'm looking for a quiet place to walk.

Brooklyn Heights Village Park

3.4

(7 reviews)

Nice wooded hiking along stream. Definitely worth checking…read moreout for yourself! Clean and quiet on a Sunday evening

I admit it's cool down there, w water streams n walk around. But ,they don't allow dogs down there…read moreand prob be cuz people seem to miss picking up their dogs poo on the top where we all live, so that's my guess y. So it's very disappointing to have 2 large dogs and not be able to use my own park!

Memorial Park

This playground is awesome! My kid is begging me to go back for another visit. They have lots of…read moreunique play structures to encourage climbing, balancing, spinning, etc. Definitely a nice change from the typical swing/slide/tunnel stuff. They also have public restrooms with running water.

I had lived in NR as a child before Memorial Park was created and can remember when it was wooded…read moreacreage. I've had an opportunity to visit the Park several times in recent years, walking all the way through to the athletic fields and NRHS. The Park has many amenities. I especially appreciate the pond and the public gardens.

Garfield Park Reservation

(10 reviews)

Large park with so much green space…read more Bathrooms. Picnic tables. Shelters. Dog friendly. Jog friendly. Trail friendly. Walker friendly. Ample parking.

I had a beautiful walk here during the fall with a couple of my friends. Lots of interesting…read moretrails. The leaves made it a little difficult to find the trail, but nonetheless it was really pretty. I loved the stairs within the park as well. One thing to mention- you definitely don't want to miss Mill Creek falls. It's the TALLEST waterfall in the county. However, it's a little bit of a walk from the nature reserve parking lot (I think it took us like 40 min), and my only complaint is that the trail spits you out onto the road for a bit, but then connects you to another trail that takes you to the waterfall. (I wish it was more continuous). You can also drive there since there's a small parking lot near the falls as well.

Acacia Reservation

4.6

(24 reviews)

Walking the woodpecker loop 1.8 miles and it was beautiful. Water features, few places to sit and…read morerest, trash cans and a covered spot in case of rain. Ample bird watching opportunities. Saw blue jay, yellow finch, robins, etc. beautiful! Ample parking. Water fountains too.

If you walk or jog this is the place, and it's suitable for wheelchairs and scooters. The park is a…read moreformer golf course so the paths are along lots of trees and plants that were once the fairways. A cool memory of the course are the wooden steps leading up to the former first tee. Signs show the distances of the many paths. There is shade, but bring a water bottle. A few benches are along the way. Call to get a tour with a naturalist using golf cars! Along our walk we saw a baby mole scurrying along the grass. A Monarch caterpillar was on a milkweed plant, and the milkweeds are everywhere. Love trees? Lots of oak trees and others line the paths. Redwing blackbirds were chirping. In the mornings and evenings I've was told you can see a lot of deer. A shelter is available for group events. There are a few picnic tables under the trees. More tables are needed. Large parking area. Handicapped accessible.

Kennedy Park