Gordon Park

Gordon Park is a public park located in Cleveland, Ohio, situated along the shores of Lake Erie. The park spans 122 acres and is part of the Cleveland Metroparks system. It was originally donated to the City of Cleveland in 1892 by William J. Gordon, a wealthy industrialist and philanthropist, with the stipulation that it remain a free, public park.

The park has a rich history, having once been a popular recreational destination for east side residents of Cleveland. It featured a grand bathhouse, beach access, and facilities for boating and fishing. Over the years, Gordon Park has undergone significant changes, including the construction of the Memorial Shoreway (later incorporated into Interstate 90) in the late 1960s, which bisected the park into two sections.

Today, Gordon Park continues to offer public access to Lake Erie, though in a more limited capacity than in its heyday. The park now primarily serves as a boat launch facility and fishing area. Its location near the warm water discharge from a nearby power plant has made it a popular spot for winter birding, particularly for observing various gull species.

Despite facing challenges such as pollution and urban development over the years, efforts have been made to revitalize Gordon Park. It remains an important green space in Cleveland, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation and lakefront access.