This park is named in honor of Lauderdale's arguably most famous resident, Jackie Gleason. He played bus driver Ralph Kramden in the Honeymooners. In the 1950's through 1970, The Jackie Gleason Show was very popular. He was also a band leader who recorded many albums. Jackie Gleason loved to play golf so in 1964 he moved to Florida and brought all of his television production facilities from New York City and set them up in Miami Beach. Gleason bought a home at Inverrary Country Club in Lauderhill where he resided the rest of his life until he passed away from cancer at the age of 71 in 1987. He is buried at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Cemetery in Doral.
Things to note about the parks in Lauderdale is they are all fenced and can be locked and they do not allow dogs. Jackie Gleason Park has a lot of great amenities for the community to enjoy. These include a basketball court, benches, a gazebo, open area for play, exercise path, a new looking covered playground for ages 5 to 12, swings, and a restroom. The park also has large leafy shade trees.
The nicest feature of the park for kids is the Living with Wildlife Splash Pad adjacent to the playground. The splash pad has beautiful mosaics of animals you might encounter in your neighborhood. You can turn on the water with a push of a button. It is a great place for kids to play and cool down during the hotter months. read more