Little League game at Pen Park

Pen Park, which borders East Rio Road ( location ), is often referred to as the "gem" of the City park system. Pen Park is the largest park in the City and it is from this park that Park Street takes its name. Although it is a relatively young recreational area, the park offers excellent leisure facilities. This area of land has kept its name for more than 200 years; by 1979 the city acquired the last of the park's 280 acres.

In addition to sweeping vistas of mountains and open rolling land in all directions, the park offers recreational opportunities for all ages. There are 8 tennis courts, a Little League baseball field with batting cage, volleyball court, 3 outdoor picnic shelters, and a playground with tot area for children ages 2-5 years old. There is the 18-hole Meadowcreek Golf Course with clubhouse and pro shop and an outdoor physical fitness course with 20 exercise stations winding through the natural setting toward the Rivanna River and back. This course has been adapted for the blind and handicapped, as well as non-handicapped individuals of all ages to use. There is a 1 1/2 mile long trail along the Rivanna river at the end of the nature trail.

Dogs are allowed but only on-leash in the park (and are not allowed on the golf course). City code requires dog owners to clean up after their dogs; a dispenser/receptacle of plastic bags for cleaning up dog waste is available at the start of the Fitness Trail.

Photos of Pen Park | Map and Directions l Map of Pen Park