Wanskuck Park

A Piece of History in North Providence

Found in the northern part of Providence, Rhode Island, Wanskuck Park offers 25 acres of green escape at Woodward Road. This peaceful space sits within the Wanskuck Historic District, an area that once hummed with the activity of textile mills.

The park has a story - it sits on what used to be the Metcalf family estate. In 1949, the family donated their property to the city with one condition: tear down the house and turn the land into a public park. And so, Wanskuck Park was born.

What You'll Find Here

Wander through Wanskuck and you'll find tree-lined fields well-suited for spreading out a blanket or tossing a frisbee. The walking trails through wooded sections provide a brief escape from city life without leaving town.

One of our favorite aspects has to be the beautiful stone walls that border some of the paths - they add a touch of New England charm that reminds you of the area's long history. If you're looking for a quiet moment, there are plenty of secluded spots nestled among the trees that make perfect reading nooks or meditation spaces.

Things to Do

The expansive green fields accommodate many different outdoor activities. Morning jog? Afternoon yoga? Impromptu soccer game? There's room for it all on these wide-open spaces.

While you won't find designated picnic tables or shelters, the grassy areas work perfectly for DIY picnics - just bring your own blanket. The open fields also make a great spot for flying hand-launched gliders or simply stretching out under the sky.

Natural Surroundings

The park strikes a nice balance between manicured spaces and wilder areas. Follow the trails behind the main field, and you'll be rewarded with lovely foliage and the soundtrack of chirping birds. Each season brings its own character to the landscape.

The mix of fields and woods creates different habitats for local wildlife, making this a little nature pocket within the urban environment.

Community Hub

Wanskuck Park reflects the area's history as a separate mill village before the city expanded around it. Today, it's a green space where neighbors gather and children play.

You might notice some background noise from nearby Route 146, but the park still provides a natural break from city surroundings.

In the Neighborhood

Located in the Wanskuck neighborhood, the park provides green space for both locals and visitors within Providence's urban setting.

Good to Know Before You Go

Wanskuck Park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 8PM. You can find street parking in the area, but it might take a bit of hunting during popular times. One thing to note - there are no restrooms here, so plan accordingly if you're thinking of a longer visit.