Once you have kids, you wind up spending a lot of your time at the park. From long strolls on nice days to quick playtimes between errands, there are simply so many ways this spot is going to make your life easier! As a Springfield milestone photographer, I get the chance to hop all across the city working in some pretty gorgeous spaces, and now, I am here to tell you all about some of my favorites! If you are on the search for the best parks in Springfield, IL to check out with your crew, here are the ones I just know you are going to love!
Get The Family Outside To These Wonderful Parks In Springfield, IL
Tom Madonia Park (East and West)
300-324 E. Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, Illinois 62712
Tom Madonia Park is a scenic Springfield, IL space that rests on a total of around 6 acres. With well-maintained walkways, a lakefront boardwalk, and a bridge that straddles the water, this is the ideal spot to go and reconnect with nature for a bit. Both the East and the West parks feature play equipment ideal for kids ages 2-10. They also have lawn games and picnic areas where you can host everything from birthday parties to family reunions. The park is accessible to individuals of all abilities.
Center Park
255 Long Bay Drive, Springfield, Illinois 62712
You could spend all day at Center Park and still not run out of things to do! This Springfield, IL park is just across the street from the Henson Robinson Zoo and offers endless activities for people of all ages and abilities. Across the 31 acres, you are going to find a volleyball sand pit, a softball diamond, and an open grassy field. There is a nature-themed playground with ADA-compliant equipment for all children as well as their caregivers. Once you are done here, you can enjoy a picnic at one of their several designated areas. They even have a sailboat dock where you can go fishing or take a watercraft out on the lake!
Botanical Gardens
1740 W Fayette Ave, Springfield, Illinois 62704
If you are looking for one of the most picturesque spots in the city, it’s hard to beat the Botanical Gardens! Located over in Washington Park, this area brings you over 1,200 species of plants to explore in Springfield, IL. They have a little bit of everything, whether you want to see some native Illinois flowers or prefer to check out rare specimens you can’t find anywhere else in the city. The park features 10 specific gardens as well as a Conservatory that stays lush all year long. Not only can you check out some gorgeous blossoms, but you can also learn all about how to successfully grow them yourself in your yard.
Lincoln Memorial Garden
2301 East Lake Shore Drive, Springfield, Illinois 62712
Lincoln Memorial Garden is a beloved space dedicated to helping families rediscover nature. Their goal is to create a place nearly identical to the land Lincoln himself would have experienced back in the 19th century. Their playground is positively adorable, incorporating natural materials that will enhance your child’s playtime. Once you are done here, you can get out and explore over 100 acres, including over 6 miles of paved trails. As you go for a stroll, you can see restored prairies and woodlands with cameos by the countless creatures who call this space their home.
Southwind Park
4965 S 2nd Street, Springfield, Illinois 62703
Southwind Park is nestled on over 80 acres right in the heart of Springfield, IL. This park is all about finding new ways to bring nature to the entire community. With their ADA-accessible equipment and barrier-free playground, this has become known as one of the best spots in the area for people of all abilities. They also have so many activities for everyone, no matter your interests. You can relax in the shade of the gazebo or catch some fish out on their piers. There are several sports courts for activities like horseshoe and shuffleboard, and there are sensory gardens created specifically for individuals living with dementia. Trust me, this space is as thoughtful as it is beautiful!
Centennial Park
5751 Bunker Hill Road, Springfield, Illinois 62711
If you are looking for the ideal spot where your child can just go and play for a morning, I think you will find it in Centennial Park. This space is massive, with over 190 acres for your family to explore. While there are a number of fun activities to check out, their playground tends to be a community favorite. They have two playgrounds right by each other, offering mixed-age siblings the best way to play without leaving your sight. The playground is not fenced in, but it is surrounded by fields, so your child can’t get too far without you realizing!
Lincoln Park
1601 North 5th Street, Springfield, Illinois 62702
Lincoln Park is a historic and quiet park that has been a Springfield, IL favorite for over 100 years. It was originally founded as a terminus of the urban trolley. While the trolley has since ceased operation, you can still find some of the original features! In addition to the rich history, this park is absolutely gorgeous. As you walk along the paths, you’ll find vibrant flowers and mature trees. There are sports courts for soccer, tennis, horseshoe, and shuffleboard, plus there are running and bike paths. During the warmer months, your family will love the playground and the community pool.
Riverside Park
4700 Peoria Road, Springfield, Illinois 62702
Riverside Park gives you nearly 500 acres of fun! This park has primarily become known for the public campground on the southwest side. Over here, you can find 100 campsites with everything you could need for a weekend beneath the stars. You don’t have to pitch a tent, however, to enjoy this spot. They also offer a dog park, baseball fields, bike trails, horse trails, and fishing ponds.
If You Have More Favorite Parks In Springfield, IL I’d Love To Hear About Them
If you are looking for the next best destination for your crew, I just know you are going to love these parks in Springfield, IL! And if you are looking for the best way to make those memories last, I can help! As a Springfield milestone photographer, I love working with families to create sessions that let them hold onto every major moment. From birthdays to graduation, I am there for it all! If you have been considering booking a session for your family, I would love to chat about it! Send me a message today to find out more!
