Springfield Parks and Gardens

(Springfield, Illinois - IL, USA)

There are over 30 different public parklands and sizeable green spaces spread around the capital of Illinois and these are managed by the Springfield Park District. Together they provide the city with valuable recreational spaces, where locals come to relax, jog, picnic and walk their dogs.

Carpenter Park is amongst Springfield's largest and most noteworthy, being located on the far northern side of the city and roughly 20 minutes away from the city center. This expansive space covers an area of more than 120 hectares / 300 acres and is categorized as being an Illinois Nature Preserve. Woodland trails, birdwatching and nature conservation are all the big attractions here.

Located on the western side of the capital, the Washington Park Botanical Garden is the perfect distraction for those with a keen interest in all things horticultural. The park itself encompasses some 60 hectares / 150 acres, while it is the resident Botanical Garden that serves as the big draw card, with its tropical conservatory, cacti garden, rockery and rose borders. A duck pond, benches, trails for walking and jogging, and summer open-air concerts are further highlights.

General Information

Lincoln Park sits just a matter of minutes to the north of downtown Springfield, alongside the Oak Ridge Cemetery - home of the tomb of famous US President, Abraham Lincoln. This public parkland is perfect for sporty families, with its Nelson Recreation Center providing tennis courts, an open-air swimming pool, several baseball diamonds and even an ice skating rink.

The Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden lies on the southeasterly outskirts of Springfield, being found along East Lake Drive and spread over some 40 hectares / 100 acres. A nature center, approximately 6 miles / 10 km of nature trails and endless wild flowers are all complemented by mature trees and woodlands. There are lots of wooden benches placed in strategic locations, with each being inscribed with actual quotes from the great man himself. Free parking, scenic picnic spots and the Ostermeier Prairie Center are all features, although you should note that no cycles or pets are permitted.

The easterly Adams Wildlife Sanctuary will also please nature-lovers, while Centennial Park, in southwestern Springfield, is a good spot for families. When the snow arrives in the winter months, the onsite man-made hill comes into its own and soon becomes packed with excited children and their sledges.