Greenwood Park - Image 1
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Greenwood Park

4.7
·552 reviews·Des Moines, United States

A vibrant public park featuring diverse playgrounds, a refreshing splash pad, scenic trails, and a beautiful rose garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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Greenwood Park - Image 1

Greenwood Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant public park featuring diverse playgrounds, a refreshing splash pad, scenic trails, and a beautiful rose garden.

4.7
(552 reviews)

"Excellent park with nice shade, a unique splash pad, and well-maintained trails for all to enjoy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking is Free!

Enjoy complimentary parking, a major plus for families and budget-conscious visitors.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes

Leashed dogs are welcome in many areas, making it a great spot for pet owners.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Playground Paradise

Playground Paradise

Various locations

Two distinct playgrounds cater to different age groups, ensuring fun for toddlers and older kids alike.

Instagram
Splash Pad Fun

Splash Pad Fun

Near playgrounds

A unique splash pad offers a refreshing escape on hot summer days, perfect for cooling off.

Reddit
Tranquil Rose Garden

Tranquil Rose Garden

South end of the park

Wander through a picturesque rose garden, a beautifully maintained spot for a peaceful stroll.

Reddit
Scenic Lake Trail

Scenic Lake Trail

Around the pond

Enjoy a paved path around the pond, ideal for walking, jogging, or a leisurely bike ride with scenic views.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting Greenwood Park on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends can get busy, particularly around the playgrounds and splash pad. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.

Park Perks & Play

Greenwood Park offers diverse attractions, from playgrounds and a splash pad to picnic shelters and a rose garden. Check for any ongoing events or seasonal activities, like fall festivals, to maximize your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Splash pad is a hit
Crowd
High
When
Fall foliage season
Why
Beautiful colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Check out the newest addition to downtown! #desmoines #dsmusa #catchDesMoines
@kioaradio
2.2K likes • 29.3K views

🚗 Parking is Free!

Enjoy complimentary parking, a major plus for families and budget-conscious visitors. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes

Leashed dogs are welcome in many areas, making it a great spot for pet owners. Reddit

Pumpkins, pints & perfect vibes 🎃🍺Greg’s has turned Greenwood Park into a full fall moment — paint, carve, shop, sip. Stop by for all your fall needs!🧡🎃 #BrooklynFall #GreenwoodPark #brooklyn #parkslope #fall #pumpkin #pumpkinpatch🎃
gregs.trees
77 likes • 9.9K views
✨FREE kid-friendly spot in Massachusetts you need to save!✨ I go to places so you don’t — and Greenwood Park in Stoneham, MA is seriously slept on. ✔️ Right across from the Stone Zoo ✔️ FREE parking (hallelujah) ✔️ Two separate playgrounds: ages 1–5 + 5–12 ✔️ Huge grassy field — perfect for toddlers, pets, and tired parents ✔️ A hiking trail that lowkey saves nap time Whether you’re zoo-hopping ...
fercerrilloo
93 likes • 3.9K views

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of picnic shelters and open spaces make it ideal for a family outing or event. Reddit

👟 Trail Variety

Explore paved paths for easy strolls or unpaved trails for hiking and mountain biking. Reddit

“Mama, where are we?” “We are at our new home, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana! We get to play with children who come to visit us at Greenwood Park! Some creative people at @sasakidesign dreamed about us and the people at @brec_parks said YES!” Leaning against a log tower, mama Louisiana black bear and her cub, sit upon a berm overlooking Greenwood Park and the Baton Rouge Zoo. They are a beacon to ch...
earthscapeplay
293 likes • 7.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking is Free!

Enjoy complimentary parking, a major plus for families and budget-conscious visitors. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes

Leashed dogs are welcome in many areas, making it a great spot for pet owners. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of picnic shelters and open spaces make it ideal for a family outing or event. Reddit

👟 Trail Variety

Explore paved paths for easy strolls or unpaved trails for hiking and mountain biking. Reddit

💧 Splash Pad Hours

Check operating hours for the splash pad, especially during peak summer months. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(552 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Greenwood Park is widely praised for its well-maintained facilities, including excellent playgrounds and a unique splash pad, making it a family favorite. Visitors appreciate the scenic walking trails, the beautiful rose garden, and the availability of picnic shelters. While some mention ongoing construction near certain trailheads, the overall experience is highly positive, highlighting its value as a free, accessible public recreation area.

"Much of the trail around the lake is condemned. The construction signs and barriers definitely distract from the beauty of the park. This the Trestle to Trestle trailhead is very close and is great and connects to several other local trails. Beautiful scenery. Well maintained, paved path plus lots of unpaved paths for hikers and mountain bikers. One of me and my dog's favorite!"

Colleen Lees

"Excellent park with some nice mature shade around the playground structure.

I also like the unique splash pad. Gonna have to bring my daughter back on a hot summer day.

On this day we were there for a graduation party, so we were using the shelter, and it was a very nice indoor shelter. I highly recommend it for events."

J fmdevil

"Went in late October when the temperature dropped. Enjoyed the trail and fall foliage in a brief visit. Very nice little park in the middle of the city. Despite that it's a cloudy day, the colors were beautiful and rich."

mei p

What People Like

Great playgrounds
Fun splash pad
Scenic trails

What People Dislike

Trail construction distractions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Greenwood Park is accessible by car and public transport. Specific directions will vary based on your starting location. Many visitors mention it's a convenient spot for a day trip. Instagram+1

Yes, Greenwood Park offers free parking, which is a significant advantage for visitors. Instagram

Information on public transport routes to Greenwood Park can be found on local transit authority websites. It's often a well-connected area. Instagram

In Stoneham, MA, Greenwood Park is conveniently located across from the Stone Zoo. Instagram In Des Moines, IA, it's part of a trail system connecting to other parks. Reddit

As a public park, Greenwood Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facility hours, like the splash pad, may vary. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Greenwood Park is a public recreation area and typically does not have an admission fee for general entry. Instagram

No, the playgrounds at Greenwood Park are free to use and do not require advance booking. Instagram

The splash pad is usually free to use, but it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal operating fees or specific rules. Reddit

Yes, many Greenwood Park locations offer indoor and outdoor picnic shelters that can be reserved for events. Reddit

While park entry is free, special events hosted at Greenwood Park may have separate admission fees. Check event listings for details.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Greenwood Park offers playgrounds, a splash pad, picnic shelters, walking trails, a pond, and a rose garden. Some locations also have sports courts. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Greenwood Park typically features separate playground areas designed for younger children (ages 1-5) and older children (ages 5-12). Instagram

Absolutely! Greenwood Park has well-maintained paved paths and unpaved trails suitable for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. Reddit

Leashed dogs are generally welcome in Greenwood Park, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the outdoors. Reddit

The splash pad is a unique and popular feature, offering a fun way to cool down on hot days. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Greenwood Park itself does not typically have on-site restaurants. However, some locations, like the one in Brooklyn, are adjacent to pubs or dining establishments. Instagram

Yes, Greenwood Park is an excellent spot for picnics, with numerous picnic shelters and open grassy areas available. InstagramReddit

Food vendors are not a common feature within Greenwood Park itself, but local events might have them. It's best to bring your own food or dine nearby. Instagram

The Des Moines area near Greenwood Park offers various dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants, often mentioned in local guides. Reddit

While not a standard feature, some larger Greenwood Park complexes might have small cafes. It's advisable to check specific park details. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The rose garden, the lake with its surrounding foliage, and the unique playground structures offer great photo opportunities. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Greenwood Park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooms to the rose garden, summer is vibrant, and fall offers stunning foliage. Reddit

In Des Moines, there's a new LED art installation that functions as a clock, offering a modern photographic subject. TikTok

The park is ideal for nature photography, family portraits, and capturing candid moments of children playing. Instagram+1

Drone usage is often restricted in public parks. It's crucial to check local regulations and park rules before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Greenwood Park is a dream destination for families! With two separate playgrounds catering to different age groups (1-5 and 5-12), there's endless fun for every child. Instagram The unique splash pad is a huge hit on hot days, offering a refreshing way to play. Reddit Pack swimsuits and towels! The park also boasts ample picnic shelters and open spaces, perfect for family gatherings and easy meal supervision. Reddit Don't forget to explore the kid-friendly trails for a bit of nature exploration. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

Greenwood Park welcomes your furry friends! Leashed dogs are permitted in most areas, allowing you to enjoy the park's amenities with your canine companion. Reddit The walking trails are ideal for dog walks, offering plenty of space to roam and explore. Reddit Remember to bring waste bags and be considerate of other park visitors. The open grassy areas are also great for a game of fetch. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Active Individuals & Runners

For those looking to get their steps in, Greenwood Park offers a fantastic trail system. You can enjoy paved paths around the pond for a smooth run or cycle, or venture onto the unpaved single-track trails for a more challenging hiking or mountain biking experience. Reddit The trails are well-maintained and offer scenic views, making your workout enjoyable. Reddit Some sections connect to larger trail networks, perfect for longer runs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

Greenwood Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse network of trails. The paved paths around the pond are perfect for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or cycling, providing scenic views of the water and surrounding greenery. Reddit For those seeking more adventure, unpaved single-track trails wind through wooded areas, ideal for hiking and mountain biking. Reddit These trails are well-maintained and offer a great way to experience the natural beauty of the park. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for the terrain you plan to explore. Reddit

Many visitors rave about the trail system, noting its connection to other local trails, which can extend your exploration significantly. Reddit The variety ensures there's something for every fitness level, from a casual walk to a challenging mountain bike ride. The fall foliage along these trails is particularly stunning, making it a popular spot during autumn. Reddit

When planning your trail adventure, consider the different types of paths available. The paved routes are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, while the unpaved trails offer a more rugged experience. Always be mindful of other park users, especially on narrower trails, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park's natural beauty. Reddit

Family Fun at the Playgrounds & Splash Pad

Greenwood Park is a top destination for families, largely thanks to its excellent playground facilities and a popular splash pad. The park features distinct play areas catering to different age groups, typically one for toddlers (ages 1-5) and another for older children (ages 5-12), ensuring safe and engaging fun for everyone. Instagram These playgrounds are often praised for their unique designs and ample space, allowing children to explore and burn off energy. Reddit

During warmer months, the splash pad becomes a major attraction. It's a fantastic way for kids to cool off and have a blast with water features. Reddit Visitors often highlight the splash pad as a 'must-do' on a hot summer day. Reddit The combination of playgrounds and the splash pad makes Greenwood Park an ideal spot for a family outing, birthday party, or just a fun afternoon. Reddit

When visiting with children, consider bringing swimsuits and towels for the splash pad, and extra clothes for after. The playgrounds are well-shaded in many areas, offering some respite from the sun. Instagram The park's picnic shelters are also conveniently located near these play areas, making it easy for parents to supervise while enjoying a meal. Reddit

The Charm of the Rose Garden

For a more tranquil experience, the rose garden at Greenwood Park is a must-visit. This beautifully maintained garden offers a serene escape with a vibrant display of roses in bloom. Reddit It's a picturesque spot perfect for a peaceful walk, quiet contemplation, or capturing stunning photographs. Reddit

Visitors often describe the rose garden as 'picturesque' and 'beautifully maintained,' making it a highlight for many. Reddit The variety of roses and the thoughtful landscaping create a delightful sensory experience. It's an ideal location for couples seeking a romantic setting or anyone looking to enjoy a moment of calm amidst nature. Reddit

While the roses are most spectacular during their blooming season, the garden offers a pleasant atmosphere year-round. It's a wonderful addition to any visit to Greenwood Park, providing a contrast to the more active areas like the playgrounds and trails. Reddit

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