We love the “Staff Picks” section of a store; people with intimate knowledge of a topic have chosen these
items as THE BEST of the best. We wanted to do the same thing for our parks. With over 60 to choose from, which do our staff—the people who interact with these public spaces daily—think are the best?
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1. Carvins Cove
“It’s the second largest municipal park in the country, and the largest east of the Mississippi River. We have almost 60 miles of trails and gravel roads to enjoy by bike, foot, or on horse and it is a great place to get away from the daily grind, challenge yourself, immerse in nature, or just feel like you are miles away rather than minutes from town.” -Renee, Trails and Greenways
“Because I can ride my bike there, hike, fish, and enjoy the trails.” -Chad, Trails and Greenways
“The Enchanted Forest. Whether hiking or biking on this trail, you feel as if you are in a magical forest. It’s one of my favorite spots to introduce youth to mountain biking, as it feels as if you are deep in the forest, when in reality, you are just a few miles from the trailhead.” -Susan, Outdoor Rec
“Paddle around the bend in the reservoir and away from the boat dock, and it feels like you’re 1,000 miles away. You’ll find bald eagles, loons, deer, bears, great little hidden rocky beaches for a family picnic and lesser known side trails to great overlooks.” -Matt, Youth Development
2. Mason Mill Park
“The seclusion, the creek, the open space, and the general peace and quiet.” -Michael, Director
3.Peter Pan Playground at Elmwood Park
“I love searching for treasure on my pirate ship.” -Patrick, Recreation Manager
4. Preston Park
“It attracts users of all ages to the playground, basketball court, tennis courts and the picnic table/grill area. I see families gathering, people walking their dogs, and friends playing volleyball. When I need a break, I just have to go out the door and take advantage of all the park has to offer.” -Melida, Youth Development
5. Fern Park
“It’s a quiet oasis within the City limits. It feels like you’re miles away from the hustle and bustle of city
life and is the perfect location to bring a blanket or chair to read a good book or have a picnic. One of
my favorite activities is to walk the trail through the woods, enjoying the smell of sassafras and spotting
ferns along the way.” -Cindy, Parks Manager
6. Wasena Park
“This park attracts people from all walks of life. There are teams playing softball, running groups on the 
greenway, people walking their dogs, families on the playground, folks fishing or playing in the river, skateboarders in the skatepark, pick-up basketball games, experts and beginners trying out the pumptrack, and folks gathering in the shelters. It’s community in action” -Stephanie, Marketing
7. Fishburn Park
“What I like about this park is that, when you go there, you feel like you’re in a different world. The variety of ways to recreate and the natural scenery give Fishburn Park such a happy atmosphere.”
-Audrey, Community Rec
8. Murray Run Greenway
“Don’t tell anyone, but it’s so lush and green and feels like a remote wilderness, but you’re right there
in the middle of the city. If you do see others on it, they’re always friendly.”
-Kait, Outdoor Rec/Special Events
9. Century Plaza
“This is a hidden gem tucked away right in the heart of downtown. The lights are beautiful and add just a touch of magic.” -Lauren, Community Rec
10. Smith Park
“I used to take my kids there to play on the playground and then fish the river. It is great at how convenient it is to multi-sport from this park.” -Kenny, Landscaping
“Fishing is great there.” Larry, Trails and Greenways
11. Highland Park
“My family and I love that we can walk to our neighborhood park and have everything from a play ground for my son to a dog park for my pets and all sorts of other amenities. Plus the view of the Mill Mt. star from the upper field is awesome!” -Greg, Park Maintenance
“It is a close, quiet, outdoor space for weekday lunch breaks.” –Samantha, Athletics
