Linwood Park South

A Piece of Wichita's Past

Spreading across 51.12 acres of Wichita land, Linwood Park South has been a green haven since 1887, when local residents generously donated the land. This historic park has seen community and nature come together for over a century.

One of the park's tranquil spaces is the Park Department Greenhouse and Nursery, home to a remarkable 90 different tree species. They were introduced in 1950 as part of a diversification effort. Today, these mature trees form a canopy that gives the park a sense of tranquility. Walking underneath them, you'll feel the temperature drop a few degrees - nature's own air conditioning.

Get Moving at the Recreation Center

At the heart of the park stands the Linwood Recreation Center, which offers programs, classes, and special events throughout the year. If you're looking to stay active, their "Stretch & Tone" classes are a hit, especially among seniors who appreciate the gentle yet effective workout.

For sports enthusiasts, the park has several facilities. You'll come across a baseball/softball diamond where friendly competitions unfold, a football field complete with bleachers and a scoreboard for those Friday night games, two tennis courts for your serve practice, and an impressive 24 horseshoe courts for the traditionalists.

And that's not all - five tetherball courts, a sand volleyball court, and two basketball/multi-use courts (one with lights for evening play) round out the athletic offerings. Recently, the park has also become a hotspot for pickleball players, joining the nationwide trend of this increasingly popular sport.

Family Fun Under the Sun

Linwood Park South is well-suited for families. Kids love splashing around at the splash pad on hot summer days, while the story walk area offers a unique blend of reading and outdoor exploration. You'll find plenty of picnic tables scattered throughout, charcoal grills ready for your cookout, and a playground with modern equipment that keeps children entertained for hours.

Need to stretch your legs? The Canal Hike and Bike Trails weave through the park, offering peaceful paths for walking, jogging, or cycling. These quieter trails make for perfect dog walks too - just don't forget the leash and clean-up bags!

Where Community Happens

This park has a way of bringing people together. Its spacious grounds host everything from intimate family reunions to larger community gatherings. The generous picnic areas with their convenient grills make it an ideal spot for those weekend cookouts when your backyard just isn't big enough.

Year-round, you might catch events like the Super Bowl 5K or performances by native drum lines that add rhythm and energy to the park's atmosphere. The park offers both active areas and quieter spaces, even on busy days.

With its long history in Wichita, Linwood Park South remains a popular local destination.