Stroll meandering pathways and cross artisan-built stone bridges at this family-friendly park of open fields, groves of trees, and frog ponds.

A visit to Francis William Bird Park is a detour into nature in pursuit of play, no matter your age. Rolling fields lined by tree groves, a trio of ponds, and gurgling brooks comprise a lovely, organic tableau. The abundance of carefree recreation is a testament to park designer John Nolen, a disciple of Frederick Law Olmsted, and his belief that a mixture of relaxation and active play should be part of the park experience.

When you arrive here, start by exploring the more than three miles of easy walking paths crisscrossing the 89-acre park to survey its woodlands, meadows, and water features. Spend a moment contemplating the park’s origin, created and endowed in 1925 by Charles Sumner Bird, Sr., and his wife, Anna, in memory of their eldest son, Francis William Bird (1881-1918). Then, let the games begin. Four tennis courts, a basketball net, and a “tot lot” playground are all you need for a memorable afternoon of family fun. Finish up the day by rolling out a blanket for a picnic on the park’s broad lawns, and savor what Nolen called the “spiritual uplift of nature.”

The park has a bike rack, benches, picnic tables, trash receptacles, public restroom (portable toilet open seasonally).

Pathways at Bird Park consist of concrete, stucco pavers, compact gravel, and compact dirt but some sections are not wheelchair accessible. There is accessible parking and a level entrance to the Park at the Pleasant Street lot and The Union Congregational Church lot (55 Rhoades Avenue).

The AllTrails website has a description and map of a hike at Francis William Bird Park.