Mariposa Park is one of my favorite spots to take my dog. The fenced dog area has a big open space where she can run and play, and afterwards we walk the nature trail and loop past the little pond. It's peaceful, usually not crowded, and tucked away in a quiet neighborhood so it feels like a hidden gem.
The butterfly theme is really cute ("mariposa" means butterfly in Spanish) and there's a pollinator garden with signs about Monarchs and other pollinators. It's not the shadiest park yet, so on hot days I bring water for both of us. There's no playground here, but if you're looking for one, Winstead Park is just a few minutes away.
If you want a calm, dog-friendly spot away from the busier parks, this is a great choice. read more