July is National Park and Recreation Month and is a great time to get outdoors with the family. Celebrate this month by visiting some City parks that may just surprise you.
Although Lake Eola Park is known for its size, beauty and events, there are many other parks that deserve equal recognition. It is important to appreciate our community’s parks and what they offer to residents.
Here are eight parks that are waiting to be discovered by you:
Demetree Park
Demetree Park is located only a few minutes from Downtown Orlando, making it a great recreational park to visit. The 24.6-acre park contains three lakes that are connected by winding sidewalks and boardwalks, providing great bird watching opportunities and relaxation along the wooded areas. The park also offers a playground, fishing pier, picnic areas and tennis and basketball courts.
650 Santiago Avenue
Harbor Park
Whether you prefer to walk along one of the boardwalks out to a gazebo or cast a fishing line into the water, Harbor Park offers it all. Located in Baldwin Park, Harbor Park provides a scenic waterfront with many benches for discovering nature and watching sunsets. Grassy areas are open for kids to run and play and for families to set down blankets for a picnic.
4990 New Broad Street
Cherry Tree Park
Cherry Tree Park is a great park for families to enjoy. Located near Orlando Executive Airport, the park is nearly one acre and has a playground, pavilion and open space for fun games and activities. Picnic tables are also available in the shade with grills for a great cookout.
2725 East Jackson Street
Mathews Park
Mathews Park serves as a great location to enjoy fresh air with accommodating amenities for a day outside. The park has multiple playgrounds to explore with picnic tables available for lunch, a basketball court, baseball diamond and two shuffleboard courts for recreation. Large areas are open for fun games and group gatherings.
205 East Hazel Street
Dickson Azalea Park
Dickson Azalea Park was originally a watering hole for cattle herders before it became a park in 1924. Since then, it has become a beautiful park with gorgeous landscaping near Downtown Orlando. Enjoy this shady oasis with friends and family during the month of July to celebrate National Park and Recreation Month. Be sure to bring your camera to capture those special moments with family and friends!
100 Rosearden Drive
Southport Community Park
Test your athletic abilities by visiting Southport Community Park for a game of baseball or softball in the 52-acre park. Then take a break with a picnic or a stroll along the walking paths.
3437 Barnstable Place
Greenwood Urban Wetlands
Explore the unique scenery at Greenwood Urban Wetlands near Downtown Orlando. This hidden park was developed in 1991 as a stormwater treatment facility. It is now a beautiful 19-acre park with scenic walkways, scattered benches and picnic tables for leisure.
1411 Greenwood Street
Z. L. Riley Park
With amenities such as a picnic area, playground and pavilion, Z.L. Riley Park is a great location for birthday parties and events. Over half an acre in size, the park is a place where children can spend hours running, climbing and having fun at the bright and colorfully-decorated playground.
619 South Parramore Avenue
