Wurster Park

Location and Overview

Nestled in the Old West Side neighborhood of Ann Arbor, Wurster Park is a 5.5-acre green sanctuary just a stone's throw from downtown. This peaceful spot offers a nice balance between recreational areas and natural beauty, making it a secluded place in the city's park system.

You'll find it conveniently located on Madison Street, west of Main Street - easily accessible whether you're a local looking for some fresh air or a visitor exploring the area. Living nearby? Lucky you - this neighborhood retreat is likely within walking distance.

Natural Features

The park's small hilltop area offers partial glimpses of the Ann Arbor city skyline - not exactly mountaintop vistas, but a pleasant backdrop for your afternoon visit.

Tree enthusiasts will appreciate the park's remarkable oak specimens, including two "Champion Trees" that stand out in the landscape. The black oak is impressive, but the chinkapin oak steals the show as the largest of its kind in Michigan. These magnificent trees don't just look pretty - they provide perfect shady spots for summer picnics and quiet reading sessions.

Our personal favorite spot has to be the walnut glen - a shady sloped area home to more than ten mature walnut trees. There's something wonderfully calming about sitting here as the afternoon light filters through the leaves. It's ideal for those moments when you need to disconnect and just breathe.

Recreational Amenities

For the little ones, Wurster Park doesn't disappoint. The playground area features a toddler playscape that's perfectly sized for younger children to explore safely. Nearby, a large sandbox offers endless creative possibilities - and thanks to the generosity of local families who've donated toys and trucks, kids won't need to bring their own sand tools.

If you're feeling more active, check out the well-maintained sand volleyball court that draws players from around the neighborhood. There's also a small soccer field and plenty of open grassy spaces ideal for impromptu frisbee games or just sprawling out on a blanket.

A paved path winds through the park, giving joggers and walkers a defined route for their exercise. And when winter blankets Ann Arbor in snow, the park transforms as its sledding hill becomes the neighborhood hotspot for cold-weather fun.

Community Value

Dog owners, rejoice - your furry friends are welcome here (on leash, of course). The park makes for a pleasant walking route when Fido needs some fresh air.

Scattered around the grounds are several benches and at least one picnic table, offering perfect perches to enjoy a packed lunch or simply sit back and watch the world go by.

What makes Wurster Park special isn't any single standout feature but rather how it combines a tranquil natural setting with just the right amenities. Its proximity to downtown coupled with its peaceful atmosphere creates an accessible escape that's particularly valuable for families with young children, dog walkers, and anyone seeking a quiet moment in nature without having to venture far from the city center.