Thomas Park

Park Overview

Set in Lafayette, Thomas Park spans 18 acres of green space that's become a popular local gathering spot. This versatile park offers activities for everyone, whether you're looking to break a sweat or just enjoy some fresh air.

At the heart of the park stands the Thomas Recreation Center, where indoor activities breathe life into the community year-round. Inside, you'll find spaces for various instructor-led programs and athletic activities - from volleyball matches to basketball leagues. The indoor basketball courts are well-maintained and popular with local players.

Recreation Trails and Sports Facilities

Feeling like a casual stroll or morning jog? The park features a 0.6-mile jogging path that loops through the grounds. It's well-maintained and good for daily exercise without having to worry about traffic or uneven sidewalks.

Sports options abound here too. The lighted tennis courts offer extended play hours, and there's even a tennis wall where you can practice your swing solo. The outdoor basketball courts regularly host impromptu pick-up games if you're looking to join a friendly match.

Soccer fields provide open spaces for team practices or casual kickarounds. A highlight of Thomas Park is its pickleball facilities, featuring two indoor pickleball courts and eight outdoor courts. The pickleball courts get busy during peak hours as the sport has grown in popularity, so you might need to wait your turn.

Skate Park

A recent addition to Thomas Park is the 11,200-square-foot skate park. Designed by Tito Porrata of The Platform Group, it features a street plaza with rails and platforms, a pool-style bowl ranging from 4.5 to 7 feet deep, and a mini ramp suitable for beginners.

Construction began in late 2023, providing local skaters with a dedicated space to practice. The park accommodates all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. While generally well-maintained, you might occasionally encounter some grass clippings on the concrete after lawn maintenance days.

Family-Friendly Areas

If you've got little ones in tow, the playground area is well-maintained with equipment for kids to climb, slide, and play. Many local families use this area regularly.

One of the park's features is its large hills - good for flying kites on breezy days or rolling down if you're feeling playful. These grassy knolls make ideal picnic spots, though you should note that formal picnic tables and seating are somewhat limited throughout the park.

Amenities and Maintenance

Basic amenities include restrooms, however they aren't always in pristine condition. The grounds themselves are typically well-maintained, with regular upkeep keeping the park looking inviting.

Dog owners will appreciate that Thomas Park is dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for daily walks with four-legged friends. The open layout means there's plenty of space for everyone to enjoy without feeling crowded.

Thomas Park serves the surrounding neighborhoods with its diverse facilities, hosting various community events throughout the year.