
Shillito Park
Lexington's expansive Shillito Park offers diverse recreation: playgrounds, sports courts, pool, dog park, and disc golf.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space

Shillito Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lexington's expansive Shillito Park offers diverse recreation: playgrounds, sports courts, pool, dog park, and disc golf.
"Great park! My kids absolutely love it here. There are so many cool things for them to do."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; arrive early for popular spots like the playground or be prepared for a walk.
🎾 Court Reservations
While not explicitly stated, consider calling ahead for tennis/pickleball court availability, especially during peak times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
State-of-the-Art Sports Courts
Tennis and Pickleball Courts
Lexington's largest collection of tennis and pickleball courts, perfect for a friendly match or serious game.
Epic Playground Adventures
Playground Area
A fantastic playground with diverse equipment, including musical toys and a wooden house, catering to various age groups.

Disc Golf Challenge
Disc Golf Course
Test your skills on a challenging disc golf course with vintage holes, a favorite for local tournaments.
Splash Pad Fun
Splash Pad
A refreshing splash pad perfect for cooling off on warm days, a hit with kids and families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Amenities & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; arrive early for popular spots like the playground or be prepared for a walk.
🎾 Court Reservations
While not explicitly stated, consider calling ahead for tennis/pickleball court availability, especially during peak times.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The park has a dedicated dog park for them to enjoy.
🍔 Food Truck Fridays
Check for Food Truck Fridays for delicious eats while enjoying the park atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky; arrive early for popular spots like the playground or be prepared for a walk.
🎾 Court Reservations
While not explicitly stated, consider calling ahead for tennis/pickleball court availability, especially during peak times.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends! The park has a dedicated dog park for them to enjoy.
🍔 Food Truck Fridays
Check for Food Truck Fridays for delicious eats while enjoying the park atmosphere.
💧 Stay Hydrated
There's a water fountain for drinking and refilling bottles, essential for active days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shillito Park is a highly-rated, expansive park offering a wide array of amenities for all ages, from extensive playgrounds and sports facilities to a swimming pool and dog park. Visitors praise its natural beauty and the variety of activities available, making it a beloved spot for families and recreation enthusiasts. Some minor drawbacks include occasional parking challenges and the playground's distance from some parking areas.
"Nice large park with walking/running path. First time visiting this park, and it's quite beautiful. Cicada season!🙃😂 Large playground, swimming pool, softball, baseball, soccer, tennis. Plenty of shelters that can be reserved, and space to spread out. 😀 Great park! 👌🏾"
Joyce Smith
"We had a church picnic and it was so beautiful being at Shillito Park. I love trees and being out in nature. It was a wonderful experience."
Jo Johnson
"Great park! My kids absolutely love it here. There are so many cool things for them to do, including two different playgrounds—one for younger kids and one for older ones. They have musical toys, a cool wooden house for the kids to explore, and even a fountain. Highly recommended! There's also plenty of parking available, which is a big plus. There also is a water fountain for drinking or for filling up water bottles."
Joshua Moon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shillito Park is located in Lexington, KY. While it's a large park, some areas like the playground can be a bit secluded from the main parking areas. Consider using GPS for the most direct route to specific facilities.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be tricky, especially during busy times or events. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot, particularly for the playground area.
Information on public transport routes to Shillito Park is not readily available in social media or Reddit discussions. Driving is likely the most convenient option.
While there are paved trails, some areas, like the path to the playground, might present difficulties for wheelchairs due to inclines or surface materials like wood chips.
Shillito Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee for general access. However, specific facilities like the swimming pool may have separate admission charges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to Shillito Park is free. You don't need tickets to explore the grounds, playgrounds, or walking paths.
Park hours are not explicitly stated in the provided content. It's advisable to check the official Lexington Parks & Recreation website or contact them directly for the most accurate operating hours.
Yes, Shillito Park has numerous shelters that can be reserved for picnics and gatherings. This is a great option for families and groups.
The swimming pool is a seasonal amenity. While not explicitly stated, pools in parks typically operate during warmer months. Check with Lexington Parks & Recreation for specific dates.
Yes, Shillito Park hosts various events, including Food Truck Fridays, Yappy Hour, and sports tournaments. Keep an eye on local event listings and the park's social media for updates.
🎫 🛝 Onsite Experience
Shillito Park boasts two distinct playgrounds, one for younger children and another for older ones. They feature musical toys, a wooden house, and a variety of play equipment on rubberized surfaces and wood chips.
Yes, the park features a large walking area and a paved trail, making it suitable for walking and running.
Absolutely! Shillito Park has a dedicated dog park, making it a great destination for pet owners.
The park is well-equipped with facilities for various sports, including tennis courts, pickleball courts, athletic fields for softball, baseball, and soccer, and a disc golf course.
Yes, Shillito Park has a swimming pool, which is a popular amenity during the warmer months.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Shillito Park often hosts Food Truck Fridays, offering a variety of culinary choices. It's also a great spot for picnics with its numerous reservable shelters.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. The park's picnic shelters are ideal for enjoying meals outdoors.
While specific nearby restaurants aren't detailed, Shillito Park is located in Lexington, which offers a wide array of dining options just a short drive away.
Information about a concession stand at the swimming pool is not provided. It's best to bring your own snacks or check with the pool facility directly.
The types of food trucks vary, but they generally offer diverse options. Past events have included popular local vendors.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers scenic views with its mature trees, open fields, and well-maintained sports facilities. The playground area and the disc golf course also provide interesting backdrops.
Drone footage has been captured at Shillito Park, suggesting it can be a good location for aerial photography, provided you adhere to all local regulations.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting, ideal for capturing the park's natural beauty and activities. Weekday mornings can provide clearer shots without many people.
The newly renovated tennis and pickleball courts offer a modern, vibrant backdrop. The amphitheater and the unique playground structures also make for great photo opportunities.
Yes, with respect to privacy and event rules, capturing photos of sports events like lacrosse or disc golf tournaments is possible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎾 Tennis & Pickleball Enthusiasts
🐶 Dog Owners
🏃♀️ Runners & Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Sports and Recreation Hub
Beyond courts and courses, Shillito Park is equipped with athletic fields for softball, baseball, and soccer, often hosting local leagues and games. The park's commitment to recreation also extends to a swimming pool, providing a refreshing escape during warmer months. Whether you're a casual player or a competitive athlete, Shillito Park offers ample opportunities to get active and enjoy your favorite sports.
Planning Your Sports Visit
When planning a visit for sports, consider checking the park's schedule for any ongoing tournaments or league games, as these can impact court or field availability. Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, offering a better chance for spontaneous play. Remember to bring appropriate gear and stay hydrated, as many of these activities can be strenuous. The park's extensive grounds mean you can easily spend a full day exploring different sporting areas.
Family Fun and Playgrounds
The playground surfaces include a hard but soft rubberized material and wood chips, offering a safe and fun environment. A splash pad is also available, providing a fantastic way for kids to cool off and have fun on hot days. While the playground is a major draw, some visitors note that it can be a bit of a drive or walk from the main parking areas, so planning your arrival is key.
Beyond the playgrounds, the park offers reservable picnic shelters and ample space to spread out, making it perfect for family picnics and gatherings. The presence of restrooms nearby adds to the convenience for families. With so much to offer, Shillito Park is consistently recommended as a top spot for family adventures in Lexington.
Community Events and Gatherings
Beyond organized events, the park's numerous shelters and open spaces make it an ideal location for church picnics, company field days, and casual get-togethers. The recent grand opening of new tennis and pickleball courts also signifies the park's ongoing development and its role in fostering community engagement through sports.
While the park is generally peaceful, it's worth noting that some visitors have encountered situations with loud music and language from teenagers in more secluded areas. However, these instances seem to be exceptions, and the overall sentiment is that Shillito Park is a welcoming and beautiful place for community members to connect and enjoy the outdoors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit