River Heritage Park is the rare Carmel, Indiana park that falls short primarily because it promises so much and simply doesn't deliver. Fortunately, 2021 is supposed to see $3 million in improvements to this park. So, hopefully a few months from now I'll be writing an update to this review proclaiming the wonders of this park because, quite honestly, Carmel usually does a better job than this.
I mean, heck. There's not even a roundabout here.
Or public art.
Seriously, though. This park was initially developed in 1998-99. It's a 40-acre park with sand volleyball courts, open greenspace, a drinking fountain, a small amphitheatre type shelter, soft surface trails, a grill, a picnic shelter that has electricity, seasonal restrooms, fishing, and a decent-sized (the web page says "enormous" but that's exaggerating) playground with accessibility features. There's bold signage here proclaiming that "Everybody Plays" here - trust me, this is also an exaggeration. Proclaiming "Everybody Plays!" here is exactly what happens when non-disabled adults design things for children with disabilities (aged 2-12).
Quite simply, they fail.
There is some accessible playground equipment here, though even the way it's placed it sort of sets itself apart (ie, segregates). There's also a swing set that is horribly inaccessible directly next to it. I mean, seriously. Who thought of that? It's actually kind of cruel in my book.
As has been noted in other reviews, the parking lot is also kind of a mess. My hope is that this will be addressed in the upgrade because it's in lousy condition for wheelchair users. Again, how did no one bother to think of this? It's dusty and rusty and the surface is just gross. If you're wanting to maintain the "river heritage," there are easy ways to do that. However, it takes intentional planning and thought.
Looking at this park, it's hard to believe it's only a little over 20 years old. It "looks" older. I mean, the White River access is awesome. This park has amazing potential. However, for now it's one of Carmel's biggest flops and a true disappointment. My review here is closer to 2-stars, but because I know renovation is coming this year I'm staying at 3-stars for now. read more