Ryan Park
Discover unique art and scenic trails at Ryan Park, from the 'Ivan Mudslider' troll to waterfront fun at Leo J. Ryan Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Ryan Park
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover unique art and scenic trails at Ryan Park, from the 'Ivan Mudslider' troll to waterfront fun at Leo J. Ryan Park.
"The troll is amazing! Beautiful walk on a brisk cool day sunshine to see such a creative artist design a troll."
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots are small.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained, perfect for a brisk walk. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ivan Mudslider Troll
Trailhead off Lafayette
Marvel at this incredible troll sculpture crafted from recycled wood. A unique art installation in a natural setting.
Foster City Lagoon
Leo J. Ryan Park
Enjoy waterfront activities like kayaking and paddleboarding on the sparkling lagoon. Perfect for a sunny day out.
Historic Railroad Remnants
North Kingstown Woods
Explore the woods and discover the fascinating remnants of the 19th-century Newport and Wickford Railroad.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Troll Trail Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots are small.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained, perfect for a brisk walk. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Great spot for dogs, with trails and potential swimming spots.
🚲 Bike the Parade Route
Join the Riverside Light Parade for a fun cycling experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking lots are small.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained, perfect for a brisk walk. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Great spot for dogs, with trails and potential swimming spots.
🚲 Bike the Parade Route
Join the Riverside Light Parade for a fun cycling experience.
🛶 Lagoon Adventures
Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Leo J. Ryan Park. :kayak:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ryan Park for its unique 'Ivan Mudslider' troll and the pleasant, well-maintained trails, especially during autumn. However, many note that parking is a significant issue, with very limited spaces available, leading to frustration for some. +1
"we visited Ryan’s park to see Ivan the mud slider. Thomas Dumbo‘s troll. It was amazing beautiful walk on a brisk cool day sunshine to see such a creative artist design a troll out of recycled wood was fantastic to see."
Beach Home
"Went to the park to see the new Troll. Troll is actually at the trail head off Lafayette. Parking situation is terrible! Only have space for 10 cars. Trails were nice and the Troll was amazing!"
Lisa Breakell
"Lovely local park with easy trails and home to Iver Mudslidder ; two entrances each with limited parking; gets crowded on weekends- lovely foliage"
Mary Lenore Keszler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ryan Park has multiple locations. For the 'Ivan Mudslider' troll, head to the trailhead off Lafayette in North Kingstown. Leo J. Ryan Park is located in Foster City, California.
Information on public transport varies by specific Ryan Park location. Check local transit schedules for North Kingstown or Foster City.
Parking is notoriously limited, especially at the troll trailheads. Arrive very early on weekdays or weekends, or be prepared to search for street parking if available.
Yes, Ryan Park in North Kingstown has at least two entrances, each with limited parking. Leo J. Ryan Park in Foster City is a large waterfront park with more ample parking facilities.
Yes, Ryan Park has been part of the Riverside Light Parade, suggesting it's accessible by bike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ryan Park is generally a public park, so no tickets are typically required for entry. However, special events might have associated fees.
Park hours can vary by location. Leo J. Ryan Park in Foster City is open daily, while trail access in North Kingstown may be limited by daylight. Check local listings for specific hours.
No, viewing the 'Ivan Mudslider' troll is free as it's located within the public park trails.
Parking cannot be reserved at Ryan Park. It's first-come, first-served, and spots fill up quickly.
Community events like National Night Out at Leo J. Ryan Park are usually free to attend, though food trucks and vendors will have their own costs.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking on well-maintained trails, viewing the 'Ivan Mudslider' troll, enjoying waterfront activities like kayaking and paddleboarding at Leo J. Ryan Park, and exploring historical railroad remnants.
The trails are generally described as easy and well-maintained, making them suitable for most fitness levels.
Amenities can vary. Some locations have baseball fields and playgrounds, while others focus on natural trails. Leo J. Ryan Park offers boat rentals and is a venue for community events. 
Yes, with beautiful foliage, unique art installations like the troll, and waterfront views at Leo J. Ryan Park, it offers great photo opportunities.
Yes, Ryan Park is a dog-friendly location, with trails suitable for off-leash exploration in some areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly inside Ryan Park. However, Leo J. Ryan Park in Foster City hosts food trucks during events.
Picnicking is generally allowed in public parks. Bring your own food and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Nearby towns like Wickford offer various dining options. Consider checking local listings for restaurants close to the park.
Food trucks at Leo J. Ryan Park events offer a variety of options, as seen at the Riverside Light Parade which ended at a taco station.
Specific snack bars or cafes are not widely mentioned. It's best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Ivan Mudslider' troll is a unique subject. The trails offer beautiful foliage, and Leo J. Ryan Park provides scenic waterfront views of the lagoon.
Drone usage regulations can vary by park and municipality. Check local rules before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for both the troll and the lagoon.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits.
A versatile lens for landscapes and details would be ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the troll and the lagoon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For those visiting the North Kingstown location, the easy trails are great for little legs, and the 'Ivan Mudslider' troll is a whimsical sight that sparks imagination. 🐶 Dog Owners
🎨 Art & Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Ivan Mudslider' Troll Experience
While the troll itself is the main attraction for many, the surrounding trails offer a pleasant walking experience with lovely foliage. It's important to note that parking near the troll trailhead is extremely limited, often accommodating only about 10 cars. This scarcity means arriving early, particularly on weekends, is crucial to avoid disappointment.
Despite the parking challenges, the artistic vision and the natural setting combine to make a visit to see Ivan Mudslider a memorable outing. It's a testament to how public art can transform a local park into a destination.
Leo J. Ryan Park: Foster City's Waterfront Gem
Key attractions include the opportunity to rent kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats from the Boat Shed, making it ideal for water sports enthusiasts. For families, the park features summer trackless train rides for children and hosts regular events like Wednesday night concerts and National Night Out, which includes food trucks, games, and music.
+1The park's location along the lagoon makes it a picturesque spot for a leisurely stroll or a day of outdoor fun. Its accessibility and diverse offerings solidify its status as a beloved local amenity.
Exploring Rhode Island's Hidden History
These trails, which pass by areas like Fuerer Park and Wickford Lumber, allow visitors to connect with the landscape and imagine the era when this railroad was operational. It's a quiet, reflective experience for those interested in local history and the evolution of the area.
Discovering these remnants adds an educational layer to a visit to Ryan Park, appealing to history buffs and those who enjoy uncovering hidden stories within natural settings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit