O'Brien Park

321 E Walter St, South Bend, IN 46614
21 acres | 8.5 hectares

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About the Location

Recreation Facilities

O'Brien Park is home to an impressive 13,000-square-foot skate park that's become something of a local hotspot for skateboarding and biking enthusiasts. The concrete playground offers a mix of quarter-pipes, half-pipes, bowls, steps, ramps, and rails that cater to everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. While not massive, the bowl section gets particular love from the regulars who frequent the park.

Beyond the skate culture, you'll discover a well-maintained, lighted football/soccer field and a versatile multiuse field that hosts various sports and community gatherings. The park's recreation center - known as the O'Brien Center - adds a layer of convenience with its restrooms, showers, and locker facilities. It's also where you can join in on fitness classes and other community activities if you're looking to mix up your routine.

Family-Friendly Areas

If you've got kids in tow, the park doesn't disappoint. There's a fun playground where little ones can burn off energy, and during warmer months, the splash pad offers a refreshing escape from the heat. There's plenty of open green space, including some gently sloping hills that kids seem to love rolling down. Mature trees dot the landscape, creating pockets of shade that make for perfect picnic spots or quiet reading nooks.

Speaking of picnics, you'll discover picnic tables scattered throughout and a pavilion that's ideal for family gatherings or small events. Two wooden picnic tables sit comfortably under the canopy of a large shade tree, and there are grills available if you're in the mood for some outdoor cooking. Whether you're looking for an action-packed day or just a peaceful afternoon outdoors, the park has options for both.

Natural Surroundings

The maintained areas of the park transition into some lovely wooded sections around the perimeter. These more natural spaces feature a few walking trails that are worth exploring if you're looking to connect with nature. Just remember to take the usual outdoor precautions if venturing into these areas.

Facilities Note

There's a permanent outhouse facility on the grounds, though it's worth noting that accessibility might vary. If you're planning a longer visit, you might want to check ahead about facility access to avoid any inconvenience.

All Features & Facilities

Active Recreation

Skate ParkSoccer Field

Nature & Wildlife

Open Grassy AreaShadeWalking TrailBike Trail

Water Features & Activities

Splash Pad

Visitor Services

PlaygroundRecreation CenterRestrooms

Food & Gathering

Grilling AreaPicnic AreaShelter

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ParkMagnet Score

Good Park

Park Size

21 acres | 8.5 hectares

Opening Hours

Monday:Open 24 hours
Tuesday:Open 24 hours
Wednesday:Open 24 hours
Thursday:Open 24 hours
Friday:Open 24 hours
Saturday:Open 24 hours
Sunday:Open 24 hours

Weather

Near O'Brien Park

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