Elmwood Drive

Elmwood Drive is a spacious community park that checks all the boxes for an action-packed family day out in Abilene. With its combination of a refreshing splash pad, multiple playgrounds, winding hiking trails, and open sports facilities, there's something to keep every family member entertained for hours. The generous picnic areas make it easy to pack a lunch and settle in for the whole afternoon.

• ✓Splash pad perfect for cooling off on hot Texas days
• ✓Multiple playground structures for different age groups
• ✓Scenic hiking trails for family nature walks
• ✓Open sports fields and courts for active play
• ✓Shaded picnic pavilions ideal for birthday parties and family gatherings

1. 1.Arrive early on summer weekends to snag a shaded picnic spot near the splash pad, as they fill up quickly by late morning.
2. 2.Pack water shoes for the splash pad and a change of clothes for little ones who can't resist getting soaked.
3. 3.Bring sports equipment like soccer balls or frisbees to take advantage of the open fields and sports facilities.
4. 4.The hiking trails offer nice shade and are stroller-friendly in most sections, perfect for a morning nature walk before it gets too hot.
5. 5.Download a trail map or explore the perimeter path first to get your bearings, as the park is quite large.

Spring and fall mornings (8-11am) offer the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the trails and playgrounds. Weekday afternoons are less crowded than weekends, especially during summer when the splash pad is the main attraction.

This is a free public park with ample parking available on-site. No food is sold at the park, so pack snacks, water, and lunch if you're planning an extended visit.

The splash pad typically operates from late spring through early fall (weather permitting). Trails and playgrounds are accessible year-round, though summer afternoons can be extremely hot. Spring wildflower season adds extra beauty to the hiking trails.

Head to Chick-fil-A or Whataburger on South 1st Street, just a few minutes away, for quick kid-friendly meals after working up an appetite at the park.