Garland Central Park

Central Park in Garland, Texas is a 60.7-acre municipal park that has served as a community gathering place for over a century. Located along Duck Creek, a tributary of the Trinity River, the park originated from part of the 640-acre G.W. "Wash" Routh homestead first settled in 1854.

The park's history dates back to at least 1880, when it hosted large community picnics attended by thousands. It has been known by various names over the years, including "old Garland Park grounds," "Williams Park," and "City Park" before becoming Garland's first official municipal park in 1948.

Central Park features both developed and natural areas. A 10-acre portion at the north end along Duck Creek has been left undeveloped to preserve the original creek corridor environment. The park contains wooded areas as well as open spaces for recreation.

In the 1920s, the park included a dam across Duck Creek that formed a natural swimming area dubbed "Lake Garland." Though the dam was later removed, the park continued to be a popular swimming destination for decades with its community pool.

Today, Central Park serves as a multi-use recreational space for Garland residents. It contains sports facilities, playground equipment, and areas for picnicking and general outdoor enjoyment. The park also houses the Granger Recreation Center, which offers additional indoor amenities and activity spaces.

Central Park's historical significance has been recognized with a Garland Landmark Society historical marker. Additionally, the park lies along the route of the historic Bankhead Highway, one of America's early transcontinental routes, which is commemorated by a Texas Historical Commission marker installed in 2011.