Northside Park

Play & Recreation Spaces

Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Northside Park spans 62 acres of recreational space. It's a bit of everything for everyone - the kind of place where an afternoon can easily turn into a full day of fun.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the lighted softball fields and tennis courts. Just a heads-up though - those tennis courts can get pretty busy during peak hours, so you might need to hang out for a bit before claiming your spot. If concrete waves are more your style, the park's skate park is a major draw - many locals consider it one of the best places to ride in the entire Tidewater area.

Got kids? The park features multiple playground areas designed with different age groups in mind. From toddlers taking their first wobbly steps to older kids looking to conquer climbing structures, there's a play zone that fits just right, complete with swings and various play equipment to keep the little ones entertained.

Take a Dip

One of the park's standout features is its indoor swimming pool that's open year-round. Whether you're looking to get in some laps or join an aquatic class, this clean, well-maintained facility is available. There's even a sun patio where you can dry off and soak up some rays afterward. Need some swimming gear? The pool keeps kickboards and pull buoys on hand for visitors to use.

Green Spaces & Natural Beauty

If you're craving a more peaceful experience, Northside has plenty of walking paths and quiet spots good for nature viewing. The expansive green areas make ideal picnic territory, with several picnic shelters scattered across the grounds.

These shelters come in different sizes - some can host gatherings of up to 100 people - and many include grills for those impromptu cookouts. They're thoughtfully positioned near trash cans and restrooms too, making them well-suited for family reunions or birthday celebrations.

Tall, mature trees create welcome patches of shade on hot summer days, while a meandering creek adds a touch of tranquility to the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled - you might spot turtles and other wildlife going about their day along the water's edge.

Trails for Adventure

In recent years, Northside has developed quite the reputation among off-road cycling fans thanks to its newer mountain biking trails. These paths through the wooded section exist thanks to dedicated volunteers who've carved out and maintained a network well-suited for two-wheeled adventures.

Not into biking? These same trails double as excellent hiking paths. The wooded areas offer a refreshing retreat from the more bustling sections of the park, with plenty of opportunities to commune with nature and maybe spot some local wildlife.

You can find restroom buildings within the park, open seasonally. While they might not be the most modern facilities, they're generally clean and well-maintained.

More Ways to Play

Beyond tennis and softball, Northside's basketball courts attract players throughout the day. There's also plenty of open grassy areas great for impromptu games of soccer, volleyball, kickball, or just spreading out a blanket and cloud-watching.

Fishing enthusiasts will be pleased to know that certain areas of the park offer water access where you can cast a line and try your luck.

With its diverse mix of facilities and generous layout, Northside Park provides a space where Norfolk residents can reconnect with nature, get active, or simply enjoy a change of scenery.