Goodwin Park

A Slice of Tempe History

Found in far south Tempe, Goodwin Park spreads across 5 acres of green space that's more than just your average neighborhood hangout. The park carries the legacy of four brothers - James, Tom, Will, and Garfield Goodwin - who helped shape Tempe back in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

James wasn't just tilling the soil as an early farmer; he was also making his voice heard in both territorial and state legislatures. Talk about a man who knew how to plant seeds of change!

The Brothers Behind the Name

Ever hummed along to "Home on the Range"? You can thank Will Goodwin and his wife for that iconic tune. Will also gave Tempe its first outdoor amphitheater, setting the stage for the city's cultural scene.

Tom Goodwin kept the community fed through his downtown grocery store while also serving on the City Council. Clearly, service ran in the family's blood.

The youngest brother, Garfield, kicked things off as a member of Tempe Normal School's first football team before stepping up as Tempe's Mayor from 1924 to 1926. These brothers really left their mark all over Tempe's early days.

What You'll Find There

Sitting at the corner of Taylor Drive and Caroline Lane, Goodwin Park is the backyard playground for the Alta Mira neighborhood. The park features a basketball court, spacious open fields with soccer goals, and a playground that's great for the little ones.

Kids can zoom down slides, feel the rush on a zip line, soar on swings, dig in a sand pit, or brave the rope bridge. And don't worry about the Arizona sun - the playground sits under a merciful shade screen, making summer play actually bearable.

The Little Things That Matter

Scattered around the grounds, you'll discover several picnic tables - though you'll have to claim a spot under one of the many mature trees if you want natural shade. These gorgeous old trees are actually one of the park's best features, creating perfect spots for summer picnics.

When the sun sets, lighting keeps the park visible until 10 PM, so your evening activities don't have to end early. Wednesday nights, the fields come alive with pickup Ultimate Frisbee games, and you'll often catch flag football action throughout the week.

Good to Know Before You Go

The peaceful vibe at Goodwin Park makes it an ideal escape for family outings and watching the kids play. Finding street parking is a breeze - just pull up anywhere around the park's edges.

Note that you won't find any public restrooms here, so plan accordingly. Water fountains are available when you need to hydrate, which, let's face it, is pretty important in Arizona.