Maides Park

Park Overview

Tucked away at the end of Manly Avenue on Wilmington's east side, Maides Park spans a generous 15.5 acres of community space. In recent years, the park has undergone significant renovations that have updated the grounds. One thing we love about this park is the natural canopy of tall trees that provide welcome shade on those sunny North Carolina days.

Recreational Facilities

If you're looking to get active, Maides offers several recreational options. The basketball courts are well-maintained with clean playing surfaces, while the tennis courts are open for anyone wanting to practice their serve. Got a team outing planned? The baseball/softball field and spacious athletic field offer plenty of room for organized sports or just tossing a frisbee around.

Soccer enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated soccer fields, and fitness buffs can take advantage of the outdoor exercise equipment in the park's workout station. This fitness area perfectly complements the walking trails for those looking to mix up their exercise routine.

Playground Area

The heart of Maides Park for many families is its recently renovated playground. The modern equipment is a huge upgrade from what was there before, and parents can breathe easier knowing the entire play area is completely fenced for safety. There's a nice variety of swings and structures that cater to kids of different ages.

The playground is designed to be inclusive for children of all abilities, with accessible features throughout. Instead of traditional mulch, the solid surface makes it much easier for all kids to move around. Those tall trees I mentioned earlier? They cast natural shade over the playground too - a definite plus during summer months.

Amenities

Scattered around the park are several picnic shelters that provide shady spots to gather and refuel. The two main pavilions come equipped with picnic tables and make perfect settings for family gatherings or casual meet-ups with friends.

A paved walking trail meanders through the grounds, ideal for your morning jog or an evening stroll. We've noticed some visitors get creative by setting up hammocks between the trees for a peaceful retreat among the greenery.

For convenience, Maides includes restroom facilities, however like many public park bathrooms, cleanliness can be hit or miss. One quirky feature: the restroom lights work on timers. The park itself is free and open daily from 7AM to 8PM.

Community Impact

Maides is used by residents of all ages. Local families appear to appreciate the improvements, and during the year, the park hosts various community gatherings - the Halloween celebrations are particularly popular.

Historical Interest

Beyond recreation, Maides offers a touch of history through the historic cemetery located within its grounds. It's a quiet spot to connect with the area's past and learn about the Maides family, the park's namesake. Taking a few moments to explore this section adds an unexpected dimension to your park visit.