Battery Park

A Touch of Richmond History

Named for its role during the Civil War when it housed gun batteries, Battery Park connects Richmond's storied past with its present. Located at the crossroads of Hawthorne Avenue and Overbrook Road in northern Richmond, this spacious green space is popular with locals looking to unwind and play.

Courts with a Legacy

A notable feature of Battery Park is its tennis courts - which have historical significance. These are the very grounds where tennis legend Arthur Ashe first learned to swing a racket before going on to change the face of the sport forever. There's a certain appeal to playing on the same courts where a champion once trained, and they're generally well-maintained compared to other tennis spots in Richmond.

The park doesn't stop at tennis, though. The basketball courts here attract players from around the neighborhood and are kept in good shape year-round.

Something for Everyone

If you're visiting with kids, you can find two playgrounds scattered within the park, with one conveniently located near the school side. While the equipment might not be the newest in town, the laughter of children still fills the air regularly.

When summer heat hits Richmond, the park's swimming pool becomes a refreshing escape for families and swimmers of all ages.

Natural Charm

The park's wide open fields give you room to breathe, toss a frisbee, or simply spread out a blanket and cloud-watch. Fall visitors are in for a special treat when the bright yellow ginkgo trees transform the landscape into a golden wonderland that's worth capturing on camera.

Dog owners appreciate the expansive grassy areas for walking their four-legged friends, but the park keeps things simple without specialized dog amenities that you might find elsewhere in the city.

Community Connections

At the heart of Battery Park sits a community center complete with a free computer lab - a valuable resource for neighborhood residents needing digital access.

Scattered picnic tables invite you to bring lunch or dinner outdoors, but choosing the right spot might take a bit of exploring to find a wonderful setting.

While you'll discover several benches and shady spots great for reading or people-watching, be aware that public restrooms aren't always accessible.

Open daily from 6AM to 10PM, Battery Park offers a peaceful retreat from city life. The quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to reconnect with nature without leaving Richmond's city limits.