Garvin Park

A Journey Through Time

Located in Evansville is Garvin Park, an 80-acre green space that's been around since 1915. Walking through this park feels like stepping into a living postcard from the early 20th century, with its meandering paths, open meadows, and clusters of native trees that embody the picturesque park design philosophy of that era.

At the heart of the park sits Evansmere, a charming five-acre lake that acts as both a beautiful centerpiece and a recreational hotspot. The park features Works Progress Administration (WPA) structures scattered throughout - from the bandstand to the stone bridges that showcase Depression-era craftsmanship.

Play, Splash, Unwind

Garvin Park has activities for the whole family. The grounds provide plenty of shady spots under magnificent old trees where you can spread out a picnic blanket or claim one of the tables for an afternoon feast.

If you're feeling active, head over to the Deaconess Aquatic Center for a refreshing swim, or challenge friends to a game at the basketball courts or tennis courts. Kids can burn off energy at the children's playground, although it's worth noting that some of the equipment could use a little TLC.

The lake isn't just pretty to look at - it's also stocked with bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, and rainbow trout, making it a great spot to cast a line. Around the water's edge, a concrete walking path offers an ideal route for your morning jog or evening stroll.

Nature in the City

You don't need to venture far from urban life to connect with nature at Garvin Park. The lake attracts numerous ducks and geese that paddle about with seeming purpose, while friendly squirrels scamper through the grounds - many regular parkgoers have made friends with these bushy-tailed residents who aren't shy about accepting a peanut or two.

On hot summer days, the park's mature trees create welcome islands of shade, transforming even the warmest afternoons into pleasant outdoor experiences. It offers a bit of nature within the city where you can take a break from the bustle of everyday life.

Community's Living Room

In winter, Garvin Park hosts the Ritzy's Fantasy of Lights, a holiday light display that attracts visitors from across the region. You can view the lights from a horse-drawn carriage that travels through the decorated park during the holiday season.

Throughout the year, the park's stage area hosts community gatherings, events, and outdoor concerts that bring locals together. These shared experiences, combined with the park's rich history and natural beauty, have cemented Garvin Park's place in the heart of Evansville.

Next Door to History

Right beside Garvin Park stands Bosse Field, a landmark in its own right. Opening its gates the same year as the park in 1915, this baseball stadium holds the distinction of being the third-oldest professional baseball venue still in regular use in America - only Boston's Fenway Park and Chicago's Wrigley Field have been around longer. Today, it's home to the Evansville Otters and might look familiar to movie buffs - it starred in the classic film "A League of Their Own," adding a touch of Hollywood to its already impressive historical significance.