3 Best Public Parks in Ann Arbor, MI

“Gallup Park spans a sprawling 69 acres of parkland and is positioned alongside the Huron River and Geddes Pond, offering picturesque walkways and pedestrian bridges. The park provides visitors with delightful scenery and a host of amenities to enjoy, including three playgrounds, paddle boat rentals, numerous picnic areas, and conveniently scattered grills. Two picnic shelters and an open field cater to various recreational activities, while over three miles of asphalt trails beckon for biking, walking, rollerblading, and running. Gallup Park holds special significance as an essential connector on the Border-to-Border Trail, promoting seamless exploration. The park also offers a public boat launch, and concessions, coffee options, and inviting riverside seating are available. Additionally, the boat rental office provides free Wi-Fi access for visitors. Whether you wish to rent a shelter or host a memorable event, Gallup Park extends a warm invitation to accommodate your needs and preferences.”

Read more

“Nelson Meade County Farm Park spans an impressive 141 acres of parkland, offering a plethora of amenities and activities to enjoy. The park's extensive walking paths, sprawling picnic areas, and delightful playground create an inviting atmosphere for visitors. Additionally, you can even rent picturesque gardens to enhance your experience further. The park's walking trails provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and immerse oneself in nature's beauty. It also offers bike riding opportunities. The paths are thoughtfully paved, while some feature gravel surfaces, accommodating various preferences. Nelson Meade County Farm Park adds to the exceptional quality of life in Washtenaw County, offering a range of activities, including active water play and nature programs. The park's varied terrain includes its fair share of hills to traverse, adding a touch of adventure to your walks. Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages, providing both indoor and outdoor activities that cater to the interests of kids and adults alike.”

Read more

“Island Park includes a 1.8-acre island nestled between the Huron River and its northern riverside on Island Drive. The park mainly features open spaces adorned with riverside trees and shrubs. You'll find two picnic shelters alongside the riverside, a charming Greek Revival shelter located on the island, a play area, picnic tables with grills, benches, and a convenient restroom facility. Island Park attracts visitors, tourism, and business investments, stimulating local economies and enhancing property values in surrounding areas. Various paths meander through the island and along the riverside, creating easy connections to Cedar Bend Nature Area, Fuller Park, and Riverside Park. Island Park is a delightful stopping point for paddlers venturing down the river with boats or tubes to indulge in picnicking, playing, or wading in the refreshing river waters. The park thoughtfully offers a designated boat landing for paddlers seeking to embark or disembark at this location.”

Read more