Park at West End
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Park at West End

4.3
·307 reviews·Fort Smith, United States

A charming recreational area featuring a splash pad, carousel, and a unique railcar burger joint, offering affordable fun and photo ops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Park at West End

Park at West End

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming recreational area featuring a splash pad, carousel, and a unique railcar burger joint, offering affordable fun and photo ops.

4.3
(307 reviews)

"It's fun and there rides and cheap $1 per person and the train restaurant is good too!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Ferris Wheel Status

Confirm if the Ferris wheel is operating before you go, as it can be intermittently closed. :information_source:

Budget-Friendly Rides

Most rides, including the Ferris wheel, are incredibly affordable at just $1 per person. :moneywithwings:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Ferris Wheel

The Iconic Ferris Wheel

Main park area

Enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings from this charming, budget-friendly ride. A unique photo opportunity!

Reddit
Splash Pad Fun

Splash Pad Fun

Near the playground

A refreshing and fun splash pad perfect for kids to cool off on a warm day. Great for families!

Reddit
Railcar Burger Joint

Railcar Burger Joint

Restored railcar

Unique dining experience with surprisingly good burgers and fries, often split into multiple servings.

Reddit
Carousel Rides

Carousel Rides

Near the entrance

Classic carousel fun for all ages, adding to the park's nostalgic charm. Affordable rides make it a hit.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Ferris Wheel Status

The Ferris wheel's operational status can be inconsistent. While some visitors report it being open and offering great views for just $1, others have found it closed. It's best to check recent social media posts or local forums for the latest updates before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Park Access & Events

The Park at West End is a privately owned recreational area. While it offers a splash pad, carousel, and a unique railcar burger joint, its operating hours and availability for events can vary. Some visitors have successfully reserved the park for family gatherings, highlighting its potential for private functions. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, late afternoon
Why
Lively atmosphere, good for families
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Out at West End Park to celebrate what would be the 100th birthday of Malcolm X!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BROTHER MINISTER!!! ✊🏾#MalcolmX #ministerimhotep #thinkanewthought #urbaninspirationalmetaphysics #WestEnd #Atlanta
stanleyyorker
18 likes • 250 views

Check Ferris Wheel Status

Confirm if the Ferris wheel is operating before you go, as it can be intermittently closed. Reddit :information_source:

Budget-Friendly Rides

Most rides, including the Ferris wheel, are incredibly affordable at just $1 per person. Reddit :moneywithwings:

“Asante Sana” live 5/19/23 at the Malcolm X Festival in ATL’s West End Park. We were blessed with the crowd’s love energy. Peep @dashillsmith on bass! @edgemuzik @davidwhild and @justicemmusic bringing the funky fresh vibes. Thanks @yamillittle for the cell phone footage! 🙏🏿✊🏿🤙🏿🤎🙏🏿
malcolmjamalwar
2.1K likes • 27.6K views
The only Move on Tuesday!!! See Yal at West End Picnic Site: Tower Grove Park 6pm 1-3 Mile Run, Walk, Don’t Skip!! 🍉: @loulousfruit ☀️: Beautiful #RunTheCity
stlruncrew
75 likes • 2.5K views

Great Photo Ops

The park offers many unique spots for memorable photos, especially from the Ferris wheel. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Family-Friendly Fun

With a splash pad and carousel, it's a great spot for kids to enjoy. Reddit :child:

Continuing a series of my earlier "work", here's a look at the abandoned West End Golf Course in Gainesville. Today the remains of the golf course have been razed, and thankfully the area is being redeveloped by Alachua County into a multi-use recreational park. After closing in 2019, the abandoned course was purchased by the county for $3.8 million in 2024 to be transformed into a green space. Pl...
beyondflorida00
1.1K likes • 34.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Ferris Wheel Status

Confirm if the Ferris wheel is operating before you go, as it can be intermittently closed. Reddit :information_source:

Budget-Friendly Rides

Most rides, including the Ferris wheel, are incredibly affordable at just $1 per person. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Great Photo Ops

The park offers many unique spots for memorable photos, especially from the Ferris wheel. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Family-Friendly Fun

With a splash pad and carousel, it's a great spot for kids to enjoy. Reddit :child:

Unique Dining

Try the burgers and fries from the restored railcar restaurant for a tasty and affordable meal. Reddit :hamburger:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(307 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find The Park at West End to be a charming and affordable spot, especially for families. The unique railcar restaurant and budget-friendly rides like the Ferris wheel and carousel are frequently praised. However, the inconsistent operation of the Ferris wheel is a recurring point of disappointment for some.

"We were able to reserve the park for our family get together. Wild Waffles catered our food! It was an awesome experience with lots of photo opportunities."

Courtney King

"It's fun and there rides and cheap $1 per person and the train restaurant is good too I went there with my three kids and had 20 dollars to spend on food and the guy there split two orders of burgers that had everything on them with fries and a pop with free refillsand the guy had the cook split it up in the kitchen and it was really good"

Rachel Guernsey

"Unique play space close to the downtown splash pad. Great burger and fries restaurant. Not too crowded on the day we went so we took our time walking around. Great photo ops."

Marla Nelson

What People Like

Affordable rides ($1)
Unique railcar restaurant
Fun splash pad

What People Dislike

Ferris wheel often closed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Park at West End is accessible by car and public transportation. Parking is available on-site. Specific public transport routes can be found on local transit authority websites. Instagram

While there are multiple 'West End Parks' in different cities, the one described with a Ferris wheel, splash pad, and railcar restaurant is often associated with specific local events or private ownership, and its exact location can vary. Always verify the specific park you are interested in. Instagram+1

Parking is generally available at The Park at West End, though availability can vary depending on the day and any special events taking place. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to The Park at West End is often free, with individual rides like the Ferris wheel and carousel costing a minimal fee, typically around $1 per person. Reddit

Operating hours can be inconsistent as the park is privately owned. It's advisable to check recent social media updates or local community boards for the most current information. Reddit

For general park entry, advance tickets are usually not required. However, if you plan to reserve the park for a private event, booking in advance is recommended. Instagram

The Ferris wheel's operational status can be unpredictable. While it's a highlight for many, it's not always guaranteed to be open. Checking recent visitor posts is the best way to get current information. Reddit

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

The park features a splash pad, a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a unique burger joint located in a restored railcar. It's also a popular spot for community events. InstagramReddit

Yes, The Park at West End is very family-friendly, with a splash pad and carousel providing entertainment for children. Reddit

Absolutely! The park offers many unique and charming spots for photos, with the Ferris wheel providing excellent vantage points. Reddit

Yes, the park can be reserved for family gatherings and other events. It's a popular choice for private functions. Instagram

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

The park boasts a unique burger joint housed in a restored railcar, serving burgers, fries, and drinks. It's known for being affordable and tasty. Reddit

Reviews suggest the burgers and fries from the railcar restaurant are good, with generous portions that can often be split. Reddit

While specific picnic area details aren't always highlighted, the park is suitable for gatherings, and visitors have mentioned catering for events. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Ferris wheel offers great panoramic shots, and the unique railcar restaurant and carousel provide charming backdrops for memorable photos. Reddit

Yes, visitors have shared photos taken from the top of the Ferris wheel, showcasing the surrounding views. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Park at West End is a fantastic destination for families. The splash pad is a huge hit on warm days, offering a safe and fun way for children to cool off. The carousel provides classic amusement park thrills that kids adore, and the rides are incredibly affordable at just $1 each. Reddit

Don't miss the railcar restaurant for a unique and budget-friendly meal; the burgers and fries are tasty, and portions are often generous enough to share. It’s a place where kids can enjoy simple pleasures and create lasting memories without breaking the bank. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, The Park at West End is a gem. The entry to the park is often free, and the rides, including the Ferris wheel and carousel, are priced at an unbeatable $1 per person. Reddit This makes it an excellent option for affordable entertainment.

The railcar restaurant also offers great value, with delicious burgers and fries that are reasonably priced and can often be shared. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a fun day out without spending a lot of money, making it ideal for backpackers or those looking to stretch their travel funds. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find The Park at West End to be a charming location with plenty of unique visual opportunities. The restored railcar restaurant offers a quirky and colorful subject, while the carousel provides classic, nostalgic shots. The Ferris wheel is not only a ride but also a picturesque element within the park, and its summit offers great vantage points for panoramic photos. Reddit

Capture the joy of families enjoying the splash pad, the vintage appeal of the rides, and the overall atmosphere of this recreational spot. The park's distinct features make it a great place to practice capturing candid moments and interesting architectural details. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of the Railcar Restaurant

One of the most distinctive features of The Park at West End is its burger joint, uniquely situated within a restored railcar. This offers a novel dining experience that sets the park apart from typical recreational areas. Visitors often praise the quality and affordability of the food served here, with burgers and fries being popular choices. Reddit

Many reviewers mention that the portions are generous, with some even noting that orders can be split to accommodate different needs or budgets. This practical aspect, combined with the quirky setting, makes the railcar restaurant a memorable part of any visit. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or snack while enjoying the park's amenities. Reddit

A Unique Culinary Experience



The novelty of eating inside a train car adds a layer of fun, especially for families. It’s a conversation starter and a visual treat, contributing to the overall nostalgic atmosphere of the park. Don't miss the chance to grab a bite here for a truly unique taste of The Park at West End. Reddit

Navigating the Ferris Wheel's Availability

The Ferris wheel is a major draw for The Park at West End, offering scenic views and a touch of classic amusement park fun. However, its operational status is frequently a point of discussion among visitors. Due to its private ownership, the wheel can be subject to intermittent closures, sometimes due to maintenance or operational costs. Reddit

While some visitors have had the pleasure of riding it for a nominal fee of $1, others have arrived only to find it closed, despite online information suggesting otherwise. This inconsistency means it's crucial to manage expectations and perhaps have a backup plan. Checking recent social media posts or local community forums for the most up-to-date information is highly recommended before making a special trip for the Ferris wheel. Reddit

Tips for a Successful Ride



If you're set on experiencing the Ferris wheel, try visiting during peak event times when it's more likely to be operational, or look for specific mentions of it being open in recent visitor reviews or posts. The views from the top are reportedly quite lovely, making the effort to catch it open worthwhile. Reddit

Community Events and Park Reservations

The Park at West End serves as a venue for various community events and private gatherings. Its accessible location and amenities make it a popular choice for celebrations and local festivities. For instance, it has hosted events like the Malcolm X Day Festival and other community flow events, showcasing its role in local cultural life. Instagram+1

Visitors have successfully reserved the park for family get-togethers, highlighting its suitability for private functions. This aspect adds another dimension to the park's utility, offering a space for people to connect and celebrate. If you're considering hosting an event, reaching out to the park management for reservation details and availability is advisable. Instagram

Planning Your Event



When planning an event, consider the park's existing amenities, such as the splash pad and the unique railcar restaurant, which can enhance the guest experience. The park's charm and affordability make it an attractive option for those looking for a memorable and budget-friendly venue. InstagramReddit

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