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Hormel Stadium stadium in Medford, MA
Photo: Tim Russell
View of Hormel Stadium in Medford, MA
Photo: Derek McDermott
View of Hormel Stadium in Medford, MA
Photo: Julianna F

Hormel Stadium

4.3(229 reviews)FreeSports
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. School-age children and teens particularly enjoy the track for running and cycling, while the open fields accommodate pickup games, kite flying, and general active play. Younger children can enjoy the space but will need close supervision.

About

Hormel Stadium is a vibrant community athletic facility in Medford that offers families an excellent space for active outdoor fun. With its well-maintained track, athletic fields, and open recreational areas, it's perfect for kids who love to run, play sports, or just burn off energy in a safe, spacious environment.

Highlights

  • Quarter-mile track perfect for running, walking, and wheeled activities
  • Spacious athletic fields for soccer, football, and casual play
  • Community atmosphere with local youth sports events
  • Safe, fenced facility away from street traffic
  • Great space for organized family sports days or picnics

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Bring bikes, scooters, or rollerblades,the track is perfect for kids learning to ride and provides a safe, flat surface away from traffic
  2. 2.Visit during office hours (9 AM-5 PM weekdays) when staff are present, though the facility may be accessible outside these times for informal use
  3. 3.Pack water and snacks as there are no food vendors on-site, and shade can be limited during summer months
  4. 4.Check the local Medford youth sports schedule to watch exciting games and potentially inspire your own young athlete
  5. 5.The facility is also great for family fitness,parents can jog the track while kids play or join you for laps

Best Time to Visit

Weekday late afternoons (3-5 PM) or weekend mornings offer the best experience when organized events aren't scheduled. Spring and fall provide ideal weather for outdoor activities without summer's intense heat.

What to Know

The facility is free to access for recreational use. Street parking is available along Locust Street, and the stadium is closed on weekends (office hours only), though the grounds may still be accessible for informal activities.

Seasonal Notes

Best enjoyed spring through fall when weather permits outdoor activities. Winter use may be limited depending on snow conditions. Summer can be hot with limited shade, so plan for early morning or evening visits during peak heat.

Nearby Eats

Head to nearby Medford Square (about 1 mile away) for kid-friendly options like Tenoch Mexican for tacos or the familiar menu at Panera Bread. For ice cream rewards after active play, try Jay Gee's Ice Cream on Boston Avenue.

More Activities Near Medford

Library

Charlotte and William Bloomberg Medford Public Library

4.7Free

The Charlotte and William Bloomberg Medford Public Library is a family favorite with an impressive 4.7-star rating, offering much more than just books. With extensive children's programming including story times, craft activities, and a thoughtfully designed kids' section, this library creates a welcoming space where young readers can explore and families can connect through literacy and creative play.

Nature

Mystic River State Reservation

4.6Free

Mystic River State Reservation offers families an accessible escape into nature right in Medford, with easy paved trails perfect for strollers and young bikers alongside the scenic Mystic River. Kids love spotting ducks, turtles, and fish from the riverbanks, while parents appreciate the well-maintained paths that accommodate all ages and abilities for walks, bike rides, or simply enjoying the waterfront views.

Museum

Royall House and Slave Quarters

4.6$

The Royall House and Slave Quarters offers an important educational experience for families with older children interested in American history. This well-preserved colonial estate provides guided tours that honestly address both the wealth of colonial merchants and the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property, making it a meaningful destination for age-appropriate conversations about our nation's complex past.

Park

Oak Grove Playground

4.6Free

Oak Grove Playground is a welcoming neighborhood park that's perfectly positioned right near the Oak Grove T station, making it a breeze for families using public transportation. This community green space offers a nice mix of playground equipment, walking paths for stroller-friendly exploring, and open areas where kids can run freely while parents connect with other local families.