Pen Park
A sprawling 280-acre city park featuring a golf course, sports fields, playgrounds, and historical significance.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Farmers market buzz
Pen Park
Best Time
Farmers market buzz

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 280-acre city park featuring a golf course, sports fields, playgrounds, and historical significance.
"Great park with something for everyone, from sports to play areas and a lively farmers market."
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of picnic tables available, perfect for a relaxed meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
👟 Explore the Trails
Discover walking and exercise trails, though some wooded areas may be less maintained. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bennett's Village
Inclusive Play Area
A vibrant, accessible playground designed for children of all abilities to connect and thrive.

Meadowcreek Golf Course
Golf Course
Enjoy a round of golf at this well-maintained 280-acre course, a popular amenity for locals and visitors.
Farmers Market
Central Park Area
A mid-week market offering fresh produce, local goods, and delicious food trucks under shady trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Hidden Histories
Accessibility & Play
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of picnic tables available, perfect for a relaxed meal amidst nature.
:sandwich:👟 Explore the Trails
Discover walking and exercise trails, though some wooded areas may be less maintained.
:athletic_shoe:☀️ Seek the Shade
Large trees offer ample shade, especially around the farmers market area. :barefoot:
🌳 History Awaits
Consider the park's historical significance regarding enslaved people's burial sites.
:scroll:Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Plenty of picnic tables available, perfect for a relaxed meal amidst nature.
:sandwich:👟 Explore the Trails
Discover walking and exercise trails, though some wooded areas may be less maintained.
:athletic_shoe:☀️ Seek the Shade
Large trees offer ample shade, especially around the farmers market area. :barefoot:
🌳 History Awaits
Consider the park's historical significance regarding enslaved people's burial sites.
:scroll:🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Separate play areas for toddlers and older kids make it great for families.
:child:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pen Park is a large, amenity-rich public space offering something for everyone, from sports fields and a golf course to inclusive playgrounds and a popular farmers market. While many areas are well-maintained, some natural trails have received criticism for being neglected and overgrown. Visitors appreciate the variety of activities and the family-friendly atmosphere, particularly Bennett's Village.
"I came here for the farmers market on Wednesday.
The vendors were all extremely friendly. There was a great selection to look at and choose from.
They had Mexican Tacos, a drink truck, goat cheese, sourdough bread and lots of produce of course!
The great thing was they had a huge tree and a bunch of smaller one to help keep it cool.
I am new to the state and it was great to find such a great market in the middle of the week!"
Vicki Beilke
"Came in to town for party. This park was great for old and young kids as there is separate toddler equipment and bigger kid equipment. There was lots of red dirt under the toddler area so my kids gotta kind of dirty but that's kids for you. They are building a treehouse that looks like it will be awesome when it's done. Lots of shade and there was a little music area."
Samantha Carpenter
"Update 2023. Vines are pulling down many trees. The wooded walk area of the park looks abandoned and the only thing thriving is the poison Ivy. Notice the first picture of the poor fringe tree that is overgrown. They cleared that area and planted small trees and fenced around them. Now it’s completely overgrown and the trees are not taken care of at all. I what a shame!
2022–Meadowcreek Golf Course, Pen Park playground, and tennis courts are well maintained. It’s nice to have a walking area in the woods, but this area is neglected. Invasive plants run wild, the trees are in sorry condition some strangled by invasive vines, stilt grass is taking over, and the fitness stops that once had timber edging and mulch or gravel beds now have rotting Timbers and are overrun with weeds. It’s a shame that no one takes care of this part of the publicly funded park."
J. Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pen Park is located at 1301 Pen Park Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available throughout the park. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, Pen Park offers parking facilities. Visitors have noted that parking is available in various lots throughout the 280-acre park, making it convenient to access different areas like the golf course, sports fields, and playgrounds.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at Pen Park. It's a good option if you prefer not to drive or are looking for convenient transport within Charlottesville.
The park is quite large, so wearing comfortable shoes is a must if you plan to explore the trails or different activity areas. Signage is generally good for major facilities like the golf course and playgrounds.
Bennett's Village, an inclusive play area, is specifically designed for accessibility. While many main paths are paved, some natural trails might be uneven.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pen Park is a public city park, and there is no general entrance fee to access the grounds, playgrounds, or trails. Some specific amenities, like the golf course, will have their own associated fees.
Park hours can vary, but generally, Pen Park is open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Charlottesville Parks and Recreation website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for specific facilities.
No, the Pen Park Farmers Market is typically free to enter. You pay directly to the vendors for any produce or goods you wish to purchase.
While general access to sports fields and tennis courts is usually free, reservations may be required for organized leagues or events. It's best to contact Charlottesville Parks and Recreation for specific details on field usage.
Yes, picnic tables are spread throughout the park, and some areas might be reservable for events. Inquiries about site fees and reservations should be directed to the city's parks department.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Pen Park offers a wide range of activities including a golf course, tennis courts, volleyball courts, baseball/softball fields, playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas. There's something for everyone!
Absolutely! Pen Park features separate playground equipment for toddlers and older kids, ensuring a safe and fun experience for all ages. Bennett's Village is a highlight for inclusive play.
Yes, Pen Park has walking and exercise trails. While some areas are well-maintained, reviews suggest that certain wooded sections might be neglected and overgrown with invasive plants.
The farmers market typically features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, goat cheese, sourdough bread, Mexican tacos, and drinks. It's a great spot for a mid-week bite.
Yes, couples have inquired about small wedding ceremonies at Pen Park, looking for scenic backdrops. It's advisable to contact the parks department regarding site fees and logistics for events.
📸 📸 Photography
The inclusive playground Bennett's Village offers colorful and engaging backdrops. The golf course provides scenic green vistas, and the farmers market can offer vibrant, lively shots.
While not explicitly a tourist attraction, the park's history related to enslaved people's burial sites offers a somber and significant context for photography, requiring a sensitive approach.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow. This is especially true for outdoor activities and landscapes.
Drone usage is typically regulated in public parks. It's essential to check with Charlottesville Parks and Recreation for any specific rules or permits required for flying drones within Pen Park.
The park's amenities like sports fields, tennis courts, and the golf course offer structured photographic elements. Keep an eye out for the developing treehouse, which could become a unique feature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks and drinks, as there are plenty of picnic tables available. While the main play areas are well-maintained, be aware that some of the natural trails might be overgrown, so focus on the dedicated play zones for the youngest visitors. The park's size means there's plenty of space to run around.
🚶♀️ Active Adults & Fitness Enthusiasts
There are also walking and exercise trails throughout the park. While some reviews mention that the wooded trails can be neglected, the main paths and fitness stations offer opportunities for a good workout. Comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the park's extensive grounds.
💍 Couples & Event Planners
While specific event planning details would require contacting Charlottesville Parks and Recreation, the park's natural beauty and various amenities offer a pleasant setting. Consider the farmers market for a casual, lively atmosphere or a quiet picnic spot for a more intimate gathering.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unmarked History of Pen Park
Descendants and historians are actively working to uncover and acknowledge these stories. While the park offers amenities for leisure, it also serves as a site for remembrance and education. Visitors interested in this aspect should approach it with respect and a willingness to learn about the complex narratives embedded within the landscape.
Exploring this history requires sensitivity. It's a crucial part of understanding Charlottesville's broader story, moving beyond the surface-level enjoyment of a public park to engage with its more challenging truths.
Inclusive Play at Bennett's Village
The village features accessible structures and sensory-rich elements, catering to a diverse range of needs. It's a testament to the community's commitment to fostering a more accessible and welcoming world for everyone. Families looking for a park experience that prioritizes inclusivity will find Bennett's Village to be a standout feature.
This area is a prime example of how public spaces can be intentionally designed to be equitable and enjoyable for all children, regardless of their physical or developmental abilities. It’s a place where laughter and connection are paramount.
Park Amenities and Maintenance
While many facilities like the golf course and playgrounds are generally well-maintained, reviews indicate that some natural areas, particularly the wooded walking trails, have been subject to neglect. Concerns have been raised about invasive plants, overgrown trees strangled by vines, and deteriorating fitness stations.
This disparity in maintenance highlights a common challenge in public parks: balancing the upkeep of active recreational facilities with the preservation and care of natural spaces. Visitors seeking a pristine natural experience might find certain sections of the park less appealing, while those focused on sports and play areas will likely be satisfied.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit