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McConnell Springs

4.7 (26 reviews)

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John B.

You'll wonder if you've taken a wrong turn when you hit the warehouse district, but behind it lies a quite magnificent set of scenery. There were some hangups; notably the parking lot and visitor center closing early and forcing one to park on the street nearby. A couple of trails were closed for me. Nonetheless, the open trails and boardwalk lead to lush and peaceful scenery that seems distinct from the surrounding city. The clear water and ample plant life make for great views, and there's plenty of space to get your workout in. The word "oasis" is probably overused to describe urban parks, but in this case it applies.

Blue Hole
Brian K.

Just a great and easy hike in Lexington. Definitely kid and stroller friendly as a lot of the trail is paved or hardpack. Best part is this nature preserve is about a mile from downtown and you don't need to drive the 30+ minutes to get to some other trails around Lexington. For days I don't have a lot of time but feel the need to be outside this place is wonderful. The trails are well marked and easy to follow. There are some very unique spots to check out while on the trail from spring and boils and a stream to some very pretty wild flowers to a small lake. Every time I come here there are a bunch of turtles just swimming around. I find it very relaxing to just watch them. If you are looking for a free and easy way to get outside with the family or you just want to be with nature, this is a great place.

Elaine D.

This was my first visit to McConnell Springs, a 26 acre natural reserve in the middle of town. William McConnell, along with his party of explorers and surveyors, established a camp there in 1775. Four years later, the name Lexington came to be, in honor of the first battle of the Revolutionary War. I suggest you venture down the paths in cooler weather, and keep your eyes open for creatures of the habitat. There is a small nature center with exhibits. Do go, and take a picnic lunch to enjoy. I definitely plan to return in the Fall.

Trisha B.

I was eager to stop by this little park to check out the trails! Unfortunately it is only open from 1-5pm on Sundays, but there is plenty of free parking available. The main loop is under a mile long and great for a quick afternoon walk. Parts of the trail are paved, while other sections are just leaves and dirt. The location is convenient, but I probably wouldn't bother going here if you have a long commute. Peaceful and scenic though!

Picnic anyone?
Heather P.

Wow! I've lived in Lexington practically all of my life, and had never been to McConnell Springs. Finally, I decided to get out of my rut of visiting the same parks over and over and explore. I was a bit surprised at the location. It's literally a mile or so from downtown Lexington, tucked away in an area that seems like an industrial park. The visitors center or whatever they call it, closes at 5pm. The gate will also be closed, the park doesn't actually "close" until dusk. You can park curbside in front of the gate, then walk through the visitors center and picnic table area and into 26 acres of hidden beauty. Most of the path is paved and level, so the walk is very easy. You will see signs pointing right for the springs, or you can turn left and explore the pond and wooded landscape. I chose going past the springs first, and circling around into the wooded area. The wooded area is very close to houses, which reminds you that you are in the city. First you pass the Blue Hole. It's 15 feet deep and has a slight tint of blue to it. The water from the Blue Hole area runs underground, through the limestone and bubbles into the second spring area, which is called the Boil. The Boil is not warm as you might think by the name. The third spring area the called The Final Sink. I won't ruin the experience and go into great detail, but each spring is amazing and has it's own story posted along the way. There are benches along the path too, so plan to stop and rest and enjoy the scenery.

Melissa M.

As I drove toward downtown Lexington, I was surprised by the location of McConnell Springs but pleased that it was so easy to find. I went on a Friday afternoon and had the place mostly to myself. The walking trails wind back into the woods. They are mostly paved and go over several cute bridges. Benches line the trail. It seems very well maintained. The springs are interesting to look at and sitting on a bench looking at them became meditative. A great place for somewhere to clear your head or take a romantic walk with a significant other. It also looked like a nice spot for a picnic. The trails were not strenuous and could be easily managed by anyone. I was happy to notice while I was leaving that it's very close to the Distillery District on Manchester Street so lunch and a drink at Ethereal combined with a walk at McConnell Springs may be in my future.

Spring Break Bird Watching Class
Ashley M.

So you have to get in your car to drive here but it's worth the trip. They have a great education center and covered picnic tables. There are paved & dirt walking paths that are easy for everyone, including those with disabilities. They host special events and upon request will host an educational event for you. I have attended Halloween events, Founder's Day and Cub Scout programs here several times. We always enjoyed our visits and will definitely be back!

Absolutely stunning! Such an incredible experience for any age! Not only was it breathtakingly beautiful, there were also signs explaining the history as well as the science behind the sights. Definitely worth your time!

Can spot the deer?
Heather M.

The park is cool that it is right in town and have paved walking trail. Gave it only 4 stars because you cannot have dogs and the parking lot is gated. Park opened at 1 pm on Sunday which thought was pretty late opening time. It's a little hard to fully enjoy nature always hearing road traffic and sirens the entire time. Do love the green space area in city. Very short more geared a leisurely stroll not for serious hiking.

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Ask the Community - McConnell Springs

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Review Highlights - McConnell Springs

It's literally a mile or so from downtown Lexington, tucked away in an area that seems like an industrial park.

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Jacobson Park - Duck at Jacobson Park

Jacobson Park

4.3(39 reviews)
7.5 mi

First visit to Jacobson Park, and while it felt like a crazy long hike there with two teens and a…read morepuppy during rush hour, it was worth the drive to experience a bucolic and hopping piece of the outdoors! Our puppy loved the ducks (and these were some FRIENDLY and INTERACTIVE ducks...) and we experienced some other cool avian sightings. Not a surprise - but the restrooms were suitably scary and during the first part of our visit, the overcast and gray sky made the cement building feel ripe for a horror movie experience... compete with a scary service truck and a man in stained overalls. (Please note, the gentleman was actually very friendly and engaging and was hard at work - he was not in any way a negative presence). The park is expansive and it was actually really busy for a Thursday evening. The dog park was intriguing but we ran out of time to visit. The play area had something for all ages and was popular with children through teens. Loads of parking and the shelter area was great for a school gathering. Can't wait to visit again!

I came here this afternoon looking for a new park to explore with my dog. Upon arrival, I could…read moretell that this park was huge! There are plenty of green spaces and empty fields to play frisbee, flag football, or volleyball. I drove to the dog park area since the park is strict on having the dogs on leash at all times, so I went there. The dog parks for both small and large dogs are enormous! I have never seen that size of a dog park since I was in Colorado--and that state is known for being pet friendly, so their parks and restaurants are 90% pet-friendly. I took my dog to the small dog park as he is small. It was still 4 P.m. and too hot for my dog. There are not a lot of shades in the small dog area compared to the large dog area. I did not stay that long as my dog did not like being grilled under the sun. I checked out the rest of the park by driving around and noticed a vast playground, a marina (although the water has receded), empty fields, a picnic area, and even a camping area! If I had come later in the day when it was not too hot for my dog, I would have enjoyed my stay here. I have seen plenty of residents around here with their kids, birthday party groups, and groups playing frisbee. I can tell that it is a great park to visit. Cool spot ~

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Jacobson Park - At Jacobson Park

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Jacobson Park - At Jacobson Park

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At Jacobson Park

McConnell Springs - parks - Updated May 2026

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