Castlewood Park

Park Overview

Positioned in northern Lexington, Kentucky, Castlewood Park sprawls across 32 acres of land as one of the city's oldest public green spaces. This long-standing park blends natural beauty with plenty of recreational options. Just a heads-up though - parking can get a bit tight when everyone has the same idea to visit.

Historic Landmark

The crown jewel of Castlewood has to be the Loudoun House, an impressive Gothic Revival mansion dating back to 1850. Now home to the Lexington Art League, this architectural space adds a touch of historical magic to your park experience. It's not hard to see why locals nicknamed it "the castle" - which partly inspired the park's name.

Step inside and you can find rotating exhibitions featuring everything from local artistic talents to internationally acclaimed works. The Art League regularly opens its doors for community events and educational programs that bring a cultural dimension to this outdoor space.

Natural Setting

With its generous green spaces, the park offers a perfect backdrop for your morning jog, afternoon stroll, or weekend picnic. The well-kept walking trails provide just enough isolation from city life without having to venture far from home.

Looking for some shade? The park's mature trees create natural canopies excellent for escaping the summer heat or finding a quiet spot with a book. There's also a charming flower garden and areas where young trees are being cultivated to ensure the park stays green and vibrant for generations to come.

Recreational Facilities

For those feeling active, Castlewood offers tennis courts, basketball courts, and baseball fields. The park features outdoor fitness equipment stations - one of the few public parks in the area where you can exercise without a gym membership.

Families will appreciate the thoughtfully designed ADA-compliant playground with rubber surfacing that's accessible to children of all abilities. The equipment is particularly well-suited for younger kids, making it a safe space for little ones to burn off energy.

During summer months, the aquatic center becomes a neighborhood hotspot with its zero-depth entry pool and sprayground. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making this a refreshing retreat when temperatures rise.

Community Center

Rainy day? No problem. The park's community center offers a full-size gymnasium, game room, and an Esports/activities room that provides indoor recreation options year-round.

For those special occasions, the Castlewood Barn can be reserved for events. With space for about 30 people, it's become a go-to venue for birthday celebrations and community gatherings without the hefty price tag of commercial venues.

Amenities and Access

Practical touches like covered picnic areas and restrooms (both indoor facilities and porta-potties) make it easy to spend a full day exploring the park. Dog owners will be happy to know that while there isn't a designated dog park, four-legged friends on leashes are welcome to enjoy the paths and open areas alongside their humans.

Castlewood Park welcomes visitors daily from 8AM to 8PM, accommodating early birds and evening strollers alike. With its historical features, diverse amenities, and community focus, it remains one of Lexington's well-established outdoor spaces.