Downers Grove's Best Parks [Updated 2024]

Growing up, my weekends were filled with playgrounds, trails, and picnics in the parks. As an adult, I've continued to explore the parks in Downers Grove and now have a lengthy list of favorites.

After reviewing 12 different parks in the area, I'm excited to share my top choices for the best parks in Downers Grove, IL. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature walk or a fun-filled day with family and friends, there's something for everyone on this list!

So grab your sunscreen and let's head out to these amazing green spaces.

Lyman Woods & William F. Sherman, Jr. Interpretive Center

Highlights
Gorgeous oak groves
Marshland areas
Interpretive center
Interesting signage
Free admission

First off, let me just say that the gorgeous oak groves at this park are truly a sight to behold. I felt like I was walking through a magical forest straight out of a fairytale. And don't even get me started on the marshland areas! The wildlife and plants thriving in these wetlands were simply breathtaking.

But what really sets this park apart is their impressive interpretive center. It's like a mini-museum filled with interactive exhibits and educational displays that teach visitors about the local flora and fauna. The staff there were incredibly knowledgeable and eager to answer any questions I had.

One thing I particularly enjoyed were the interesting signs scattered throughout the park. They provided insightful information on everything from bird-watching tips to historical facts about the area.

Oh, and did I mention that admission is free? That's right, you can enjoy all of these amazing sights and experiences without spending a dime.

Overall, Lyman Woods & William F. Sherman, Jr. Interpretive Center is definitely one of Downers Grove's best parks, and it's not hard to see why. Whether you're an avid nature lover or just looking for a fun and educational outing with your family, this place has something for everyone.

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Patriots Park

Highlights
Two playgrounds
Walking path
Plenty of parking

First of all, let's talk about the playgrounds. Yes, plural! Patriots Park has not one, but two playgrounds - perfect for kids who get bored easily or have different age ranges. The equipment is well-maintained and there are plenty of opportunities to climb, slide, and swing.

But that's not all. For those who enjoy a good stroll or walk in nature, Patriots Park has a lovely walking path around the perimeter of the park. It's a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the fresh air and scenery.

And let's not forget about the convenience factor. There is plenty of parking available at Patriots Park, so no need to stress about finding a spot or having to walk far from your car.

Overall, I highly recommend Patriots Park for families or anyone looking for a fun outdoor activity in Downers Grove. With two playgrounds, a walking path, and ample parking, it checks all the boxes. So grab your kids (or just yourself) and head over to Patriots Park for some fun in the sun!

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McCollum Park

Highlights
Well-lit at night
Numerous activities available
Clean and well-maintained
Large shaded eating area

First of all, I was impressed with the park's cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. It's clear that they take pride in their park and it shows. Additionally, the park is well-lit at night which is a huge plus for anyone who wants to enjoy the activities after dark.

Speaking of activities, this park has plenty to offer! From basketball courts to tennis courts, baseball fields to soccer fields, there's something for everyone. And if you're not into sports, there are also walking paths and playgrounds for kids of all ages.

What really stood out to me was the large shaded eating area, perfect for picnics or just taking a break from the sun. It's always nice to have a place to cool off and relax during intense outdoor activities.

Overall, McCollum Park is definitely one of the best parks in Downers Grove. With its clean facilities, well-lit environment, variety of activities available and ample shaded areas for relaxation, it's no wonder why families flock here during summer days. So grab your sunscreen and head on over!

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Hummer Park

Highlights
Well-maintained
Large picnic area
Two playgrounds
Clean park

First off, I was pleasantly surprised by how well-maintained the park is. The grass was neatly trimmed, the benches were clean, and there wasn't a single piece of litter in sight. As someone who appreciates a clean environment, this was definitely a plus.

Another highlight of Hummer Park is its large picnic area. Whether you're planning a family gathering or a romantic picnic with your significant other, there's plenty of space for everyone to enjoy themselves. Plus, there are several tables available for use, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own chairs.

If you have children, they'll love the two playgrounds that are available at Hummer Park. There's one for younger kids and another for older ones, ensuring that everyone has a fun time. As I watched kids playing on the equipment, I couldn't help but feel nostalgic for my own childhood.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that Hummer Park is just an all-around clean park. There aren't any unpleasant smells or unsightly sights to be seen here - just a beautiful environment to enjoy.

Overall, if you're looking for a park in Downers Grove that's clean and well-maintained with plenty of amenities like picnic areas and playgrounds, then Hummer Park should definitely be on your list.

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Hoopers Hollow Park

Highlights
Peaceful atmosphere
Family-friendly
Big tree landmark
Classic playground
Nice activities

First of all, the atmosphere of this park is so peaceful and serene. It's the perfect location to relax and enjoy nature. The park is also family-friendly, with plenty of open space for children to run around and play.

One thing that really stood out to me was the big tree landmark. It's a beautiful tree that adds character and charm to the park. Plus, it provides great shade on sunny days.

The playground at Hoopers Hollow Park is a classic design, but still offers plenty of fun for kids. I saw children laughing and playing on the swings, slides, and monkey bars.

There are also some nice activities available at this park. There's a basketball court for those who want to shoot some hoops, as well as a picnic area where families can enjoy lunch together.

Overall, I had a great experience at Hoopers Hollow Park. It's definitely one of the best parks in Downers Grove. If you're looking for a peaceful atmosphere, family-friendly environment, and classic playground fun, then this is the place for you!

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Gelwicks Park

Highlights
Bird sanctuary
Small area
Goats for landscaping

Firstly, I was delighted to find out that the park houses a bird sanctuary. As someone who appreciates nature and its beauty, it was a treat to see a variety of birds up close. The sanctuary is well-maintained and provides a safe haven for our feathered friends.

The park itself is relatively small, but don't let its size deceive you. It packs quite a punch with all its features. One thing that caught my attention was the use of goats for landscaping. Yes, you heard it right! The park authorities have employed goats to help maintain the vegetation in the park. It's an eco-friendly and quirky way to keep the grass trimmed!

Overall, Gelwicks Park is certainly worth a visit if you're looking for a calm and relaxing space to unwind. While it may not be as sprawling as some of the other parks in Downers Grove, its unique features make it stand out from the rest.

So if you're looking for a place to enjoy some fresh air while observing birds or simply want to witness goats at work, Gelwicks Park is definitely worth checking out!

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Ebersold Park

Highlights
Paved walking loop
Well-maintained
Playground
Public bathroom

Firstly, I was impressed with the well-maintained condition of the park. It was clean and tidy which made my visit much more enjoyable. The park is perfect for an afternoon stroll thanks to its paved walking loop that makes it easy to walk around without getting your feet dirty.

If you're visiting with kids, they'll love the playground which has a variety of equipment suitable for all ages. While they're playing, parents can relax on one of the many benches placed around the playground area.

One thing I really appreciated about Ebersold Park was that it had a public bathroom which is always a plus in my book! There's nothing worse than being caught short without facilities nearby.

Overall, Ebersold Park is a great option for families or anyone looking to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine. Its convenient location and variety of amenities make it one of the best parks in Downers Grove. So next time you’re in the area, make sure to check it out!

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Whitlock Park

Highlights
Large baseball fields
Playground and walking trails
Covered picnic tables
Clean and well maintained

The first thing that caught my attention was the large baseball fields which looked perfect for a game with friends or family. As I explored further, I found a playground and some walking trails that were perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

One thing that really impressed me about Whitlock Park were the covered picnic tables, which provided excellent shade on a sunny day. And as someone who values cleanliness, I was delighted to find that the park was well-maintained and spotless.

Overall, I would highly recommend Whitlock Park to anyone looking for a great outdoor space to relax and have fun. Whether you're looking for some exercise or just want to take in the fresh air, this park has something for everyone. So why not pack a picnic basket and head on over? You won't regret it!

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Ned Bell Park

Highlights
Soccer field
Porta potty
Lights
Street parking
Nice park

This park had some great highlights, including a soccer field that looked well-maintained and perfect for a friendly game with friends. While there was only a porta potty, it was clean and functional (thank goodness for that!). The park also had lights which is always a plus for evening activities. However, the only downside is that street parking can be limited on busy days.

Overall, I really enjoyed my time at Ned Bell Park. It's a nice park with plenty of space to enjoy outdoor activities and relax under the sun. The greenery was well-kept and provided a beautiful backdrop for some Instagram-worthy photos (if you're into that sort of thing).

In short, if you're looking for a fun day out in Downers Grove, Ned Bell Park is definitely worth checking out! Just don't forget to bring your best soccer skills and maybe even pack some extra snacks - because who doesn't love snacking in the great outdoors?

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Washington Park

Highlights
Fenced in kids play area
Covered picnic area
Separated toddler area
Beautiful running fountain
Large grassy sport field

The moment I entered the park, I was greeted with a beautiful running fountain that seemed to be welcoming me to come and explore. As I walked further in, I noticed a large grassy sport field perfect for any outdoor activities such as soccer or frisbee. However, what really caught my attention was the fenced-in kids play area, which is every parent's dream come true. The play area included a separated toddler section that ensured safety for the little ones while allowing them to have fun.

I also spotted a covered picnic area where families could enjoy their meals under the shade without worrying about getting sunburnt. It was the perfect place to relax and catch up with friends and family while enjoying the fresh air.

Overall, Washington Park has all the features necessary for a fun-filled day at the park. Its well-maintained green space and amenities make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. If you're looking for an active yet relaxing day out in Downers Grove, make sure to add Washington Park to your list of places to visit!

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Dunham Place Park

Highlights
Quiet atmosphere
Great fishing
Well-kept
Park for kids

First of all, the atmosphere was incredibly quiet and serene. It was a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I was surprised to find that it also had great fishing opportunities, so I brought my fishing rod with me. The fish were biting like crazy, and I caught several big ones!

The park itself is well-kept and maintained, making it a pleasure to spend time there. The grass was freshly cut, and the trees had been trimmed nicely. I appreciated how clean everything was--not a single piece of litter to be found!

My favorite part about Dunham Place Park is that it's not just for adults. It's also a great park for kids! There are plenty of fun things for children to do, including slides, swings, and climbing equipment. It’s an excellent place for families to bond over picnic lunches while enjoying the surrounding beauty.

Overall, if you're looking for a peaceful place to unwind while still having some fun activities available, Dunham Place Park is definitely worth checking out!

Fishel Park

Highlights
Summer concerts
Community vibe
Playground

First of all, I have to say that Fishel Park is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing day out. The park offers an incredible community vibe where everyone feels welcome and included.

One of the best things about Fishel Park is the summer concert series that takes place there. It's a great opportunity to bring your family, friends or even your dog (yes, it's pet-friendly!) to enjoy some live music while lounging on the green grass in front of the bandshell.

But it's not just about the events at Fishel Park – there's also a fantastic playground area that kids will love! The equipment is well-maintained, and there are plenty of options to keep children entertained for hours.

Overall, I would highly recommend Fishel Park as an excellent option for a day out with friends, family or even by yourself. With its beautiful scenery and friendly atmosphere, it's hard not to fall in love with this park instantly. If you're looking for a tranquil and enjoyable time outdoors in Downers Grove, look no further than Fishel Park!