The best parks & outdoor spots in Springfield

“Rhodes Park packs a quarter-mile cinder track, basketball courts, ball fields, and a solid playground, plus picnic spots when the post-game snacks appear out of nowhere. It also serves as a trailhead for the Sullivant Trace Trail and boasts an inclusive ADA Sports Pad that set a Midwest precedent.”

From the Springfield newsletter, September 10, 2026

“City park featuring a pedestrian tunnel.”

“25 miles of paved path, and a legit disc golf course. Public docks, nature preserve vibes, no jet skis or swimming.”

From the Hilliard newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Goodale Park is Columbus’ oldest public park, ringed by stately Victorians with skyline peeks, and lately it’s getting even better with Art in the Park bringing four permanent artworks. Worth a quick trek when you want shady walks, people watching, kid energy to burn, or a volunteer morning that actually feels fun.”

From the Mansfield newsletter, September 3, 2026

“North Bank Park delivers downtown river views, paved paths that link right into the Scioto Mile, and enough picnic tables to stage an impromptu potluck. Bring the kids for the splash pad, then bookmark the pavilion if you’re plotting a low-stress event.”

“Glenview Park is a pocket of woods with greenway trail access, a simple playground, picnic tables, and a no-frills basketball court, perfect for low-key hangs or kid energy dumps. Walk the shaded path, spot a bit of wildlife, then refuel with a laid-back bench picnic.”

From the Reynoldsburg newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Wooded, family-friendly park featuring playgrounds and sporting areas, plus a pond for fishing.”

“Wetland area with university research center, trails & an observation pavilion, open to the public.”

“Glenwood Park in Greater Hilltop packs a little of everything... programs at Glenwood Community Center, a pool for hot days, hoops on the basketball courts with pickleball overlays, a community garden, a paved path, and a woods-and-wildlife nook when you want shade. Easygoing, genuinely local.”

From the Columbus newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Monument-filled green space along the Scioto River with a playground and paths.”

“Kid-friendly green space with picnic tables and a play area.”

“City park offering a playground, walking trails, picnic tables, and a waterfall.”

“Need a quick cool-down that keeps the kids grinning and you semi-dry? Splash Park at Snyder Park delivers with a 1,400-square-foot sprayground of dumping buckets, sprayers and zero standing water, perfect for a quick play break or a full afternoon of Clark County summer energy burn.”

From the Springfield newsletter, August 6, 2026

“With the Scioto Mile Fountain right there and a riverfront stage that keeps free fitness classes and live music rolling, Bicentennial Park is the midweek reset you forgot you needed. Grab a friend, breathe a little, and let the city soundtrack do the rest this week.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Snyder Park packs 226 acres of choose-your-own-fun: wander past the Old Stone Bridge and placid lagoons, paddle Buck Creek’s white water feature, let the kids loose at the playground and Bethie’s Sprayground, rally at the Dredge Tennis Complex, or just fish without a license and chill.”

From the Springfield newsletter, August 19, 2026

“If your week needs a low-stress reset, Blackburn Park delivers with hoops, a futsal court, tennis courts that double for pickleball, a sprayground for cooling off, and a solid playground for the kids. Plus a community garden and an open air shelter make it an easy Near East hang.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 14, 2026

“If your kitchen needs a nudge toward pies and crisp, Peifer Orchards brings 25 apple varieties, fresh pressed cider, baked goods, local honey, and Ohio maple syrup. Peek at their weekly crop report to see what’s ready this week, then wander the Orchard House gift shop or the pick-your-own rows.”

From the Springfield newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Mad River Gorge & Nature Preserve packs 91 acres of local escape with a main hiking trail along an old railroad, access to the Mad River, natural dolomite cliffs up to 50 feet for rock climbing, and a stream-side forest where wildflowers and birdwatching keep things interesting.”

From the Springfield newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Need a mellow spot to zone out close to home? George Rogers Clark Park delivers easy walking trails, a little lake for strolling-by views, and a playground that lets the kids burn energy while you breathe. Simple, relaxed, and exactly right for a midweek reset.”

From the Springfield newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Retail chain with farm supplies & other merchandise, including home goods & hunting gear.”