Lorenzi Park

A Piece of Vegas History

Located just a couple miles northwest of the Las Vegas Strip, Lorenzi Park is one of the city's oldest green spaces with a story as colorful as Vegas itself. Back in 1926, a French immigrant named David G. Lorenzi established what would eventually become this treasured community park.

The park's journey through time is fascinating. In the 1940s, it transformed into the Twin Lakes Lodge, a resort and dude ranch where visitors could experience a taste of western life. Perhaps most intriguing was its 1950s role in Nevada's divorce industry - yes, you read that right - providing temporary homes for those establishing residency to file for divorce (talk about Vegas history!).

In 1966, the City of Las Vegas purchased the property, opening it to the public. The park's historical significance earned it spots on both the City of Las Vegas Historic Property Register in 2009 and the Nevada State Register of Historic Places in 2013.

What You'll Find There

Spanning 80 acres, the park's most distinctive feature has to be its twin lakes - Lorenzi's original vision brought to life. These artesian-fed bodies of water create a surprising oasis amid the desert landscape. If fishing is your thing, grab your Nevada fishing license and try your luck catching trout, catfish, or carp - though the fish might be more interested in sunbathing than biting on some days.

For sports enthusiasts, the park features baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and even a roller hockey area. Little ones can burn off energy at multiple playgrounds scattered around the grounds. The walking trails that circle the lakes make for an ideal morning stroll or an evening wind-down after a day in the busy city.

Natural Beauty

Lorenzi Park provides something relatively uncommon in Las Vegas - expansive green spaces where you can briefly forget you're in the desert. The contrast between the lush park environment and the typically arid Vegas landscape is refreshing.

If you're into birdwatching, bring your binoculars. The lakes attract a variety of birds including ducks, geese, and other waterfowl. During migration seasons, you might spot some interesting visitors taking a break from their long journeys.

Don't miss the rose garden, which adds a touch of color and fragrance to the park - especially beautiful when in bloom, offering a quiet spot for reflection away from the typical Vegas chaos.

Things to Do

Today's Lorenzi Park perfectly blends its historical charm with modern recreational opportunities. Some structures from the Twin Lakes Lodge era still stand, giving you glimpses into Vegas's past while you enjoy its present.

The picnic areas scattered throughout the park come equipped with tables and BBQ grills - ideal for family gatherings or casual meet-ups with friends. Many are situated near the lakes and playgrounds, making it easy to keep an eye on the kids while preparing lunch.

The Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza hosts community events year-round, from cultural celebrations to concerts. With its large stage and grassy seating area, it's a popular gathering spot that brings together locals and visitors alike.

Good to Know

The park welcomes visitors daily from 7AM to 11PM, with restrooms available at various locations within the grounds.

If you're visiting with children, you'll appreciate the multiple playgrounds with equipment suitable for different age groups. Some areas offer shade and benches where you can relax while supervising the little ones. During summer months (typically June through August), the seasonal water play feature becomes an instant hit with kids looking to cool off from the notorious Vegas heat.

Unlike the nearby Strip, Lorenzi Park offers a genuine touch of local Las Vegas life - where residents come to unwind and visitors can experience the city beyond the casinos and shows.