Richmond Park

A Step Back in Time

Richmond Park is one of Grand Rapids' original green spaces, with a rich history that goes back generations. Sprawling across 43 acres, this park blends natural charm with practical amenities that locals have cherished for generations.

The City of Grand Rapids classifies it as a specialty park, which feels like an understatement when you consider how many memories have been made here over the decades.

Make a Splash

A major highlight of Richmond Park is its pool and bathhouse, dating back to 1932. Built during the Depression as a relief labor project under city manager George Welsh, the pool was considered cutting-edge for its time and remains a summer staple for many families.

Today's pool offers modern touches like a zero-depth entry, accessible lift, playful spray features, a twisting water slide, and concessions when you need a snack break. If you're bringing little ones, you'll appreciate the expansive shallow area, while older swimmers can head to the diving boards in the deeper end. The good news? It won't break the bank - just about $3 for adults and $1 for kids.

You'll notice plenty of lifeguards keeping watch, and swimming lessons are available if you're looking to improve your strokes. The changing facilities might show their years, but they're kept clean and do the job just fine.

Play All Year Round

While summer draws crowds to the pool, Richmond Park functions as an all-season destination. When snow blankets the ground, grab your sled and hit what many locals consider one of the best sledding hills in West Michigan, or lace up your skates for some ice skating on the frozen pond.

The park doesn't play favorites with sports either. You can find courts for basketball and tennis, trails for mountain biking and cross-country skiing, and fields for baseball, softball, kickball, and soccer. Kids have their choice of two playgrounds designed with different age groups in mind, and cycling enthusiasts can test their skills on the BMX path.

For a more relaxed outing, take a stroll on the one-mile paved trail that loops around the small pond, or claim one of the picnic shelters for an afternoon gathering.

A Natural Retreat

Step away from the recreational facilities, and you'll find yourself surrounded by woodland calm. The trails extending into wooded areas at the back of the park offer a peaceful escape where you might spot local wildlife going about their day.

The park's pond has become a miniature ecosystem, home to ducks, geese, swans, and fish. Find a spot on the observation deck to take in the water views, or try your luck fishing. Recent improvements to the paved path around the pond mean everyone can enjoy this tranquil corner of the park.

Community at Heart

What makes Richmond Park special isn't just what it offers but how it brings people together. Spread a blanket under the shade of mature oak trees in the picnic areas, or fire up one of the grilling areas for an impromptu cookout. For bigger gatherings, the community hall provides shelter and has hosted countless family celebrations over the years.

Dog owners, you're welcome too - the park is dog-friendly with plenty of paths for leashed walks. If your four-legged friend loves water, mark your calendar for the special dog swim day at the pool after human swimming season concludes.

Richmond Park offers both recreation and social spaces where Grand Rapids residents have been gathering for decades.