Vernon Hill Park

Park Overview

Perched atop Vernon Hill in Worcester, Massachusetts, this 15.2-acre green space offers a welcome retreat from city life. Vernon Hill Park combines natural beauty with plenty of recreational options, making it ideal for everything from a quick morning stroll to a full day of family fun. The well-maintained grounds provide a lovely backdrop for casual walks or impromptu picnics.

Sports Facilities

If you're into team sports, you'll come across plenty to love here. The park houses two baseball fields and two softball fields that regularly buzz with activity. These fields are used by East Side Babe Ruth, where local youth play baseball and develop their skills.

Not a baseball fan? No problem. You can shoot hoops at the basketball courts, practice your serve at the tennis courts, or bump, set, and spike at the volleyball courts. The variety of courts accommodates different sporting interests.

Swimming Pool

A notable feature of Vernon Hill Park is the Dennis F. Shine Jr. Memorial Swimming Pool. Named after a local hero who sacrificed his life in Vietnam, this pool offers sweet relief when summer temperatures climb. Originally built in 1970 and given a facelift in 2009, it's become a neighborhood institution.

While the pool sits within the park boundaries, it's actually run by the state's Department of Conservation and Recreation. On hot summer days, you can find it filled with families and kids splashing around and cooling off.

Dog Park

In August 2017, Vernon Hill Park made history by introducing Worcester's first off-leash dog park. This thoughtfully designed 17,400 square foot space is split into two areas - one for the small pups and another where larger dogs can stretch their legs.

The dog park comes equipped with complimentary waste bags to keep things clean and pleasant. Even outside the designated area, you'll spot plenty of locals walking their four-legged friends along the park's winding paths.

Children's Playground

The well-equipped playground features slides, monkey bars, climbing structures, and swings suitable for different ages. The playground's location next to an open field gives children even more space to run free and play games.

Picnic Areas

When you're ready to refuel, head to one of the designated picnic spots scattered throughout the park. These areas are good spots for family lunches or gatherings with friends, with views of the park's greenery.

Parking

You'll find a dedicated parking lot at Vernon Hill Park, but it can fill up quickly, especially when neighborhood residents are out enjoying the facilities. If you're planning to visit during peak hours or weekend afternoons, arriving early is your best bet for snagging a spot.