Gilman: where the homeless took the bathrooms, but nature took the win.
Gilman Park is one of those little neighborhood parks that manages to feel like a hidden gem. Tucked off Hartford Ave, it's not huge, not flashy -- but it's beautiful. These days it's more of a birdwatcher's haven, with plenty of trees and green space to just breathe and get away from the city noise.
It used to have more: barbecues, bathrooms, the kind of amenities that made it a full-on family spot. But over the years, the facilities got shut down because of heavy use by the homeless community. What's left is simpler, but still lovely.
I come here on weekends because we use the park for martial arts practice -- and it's perfect for that. Wide open space, fresh air, and just enough quiet to train without distractions. The park attracts birdwatchers now too, and it's easy to see why: it's calm, it's green, and if you look up you'll probably spot something feathered flying by.
Not everything survives gentrification -- except the birds.
Gilman Park may have lost some of its original features, but it's still a beautiful, open space to relax, train, or just watch the world go by. If you want family cookouts, look elsewhere. If you want peace, fresh air, and a place to practice martial arts or watch birds, this is your spot. read more