Attraction
Environment
With excellent facilities for walk lovers, this place is perfect to spent quality time. This picturesque park is best for recreational activity. The view of this place seems more pleasant as you explore different corners. To the west, there is a large playground and flamboyant pavilion with ADA restrooms. You can come here for a picnic, visit the rose gardens or sit on a bench listening as the beautiful tower of bells is playing on any given day.
Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon
Every year the carillon hosts the International carillon festival that features famous instrument players from all over the world. A week-long international festival each summer is something lively you will remember even after it is over. The Festival is held in June and hosts concerts during the evenings.
Velasco Tennis Center
Velasco is the perfect sport to increase your activity level. The facility contains twelve courts of which six are with lights and a pro shop. At the pro shop, tennis enthusiasts can purchase tennis equipment and apparel. All park district are open to the public. The Tennis center opens from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Important Facts
- The Washington Park’s rose garden has over 5,000 plants, is the largest in downstate Illinois
- This park is registered in the National Register of Historic Places.
- The Park is operated by the Springfield Park District.
What to Expect
Most of the paths of the garden are wheelchair accessible so everyone can come here to enjoy some moments. Free guided tours are available for Washington Park from Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 4 pm. For a guided tour, make sure to make a booking one week in advance. If visiting Springfield, take the kids- they may not get another chance to see or hear this beautiful and rare instrument played at Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon.
Activities
Walk around the beautiful landscape around the rose garden, flowers, and rock formations. While browsing at the park make sure that you visit the Pro-shop at the tennis center.
Attend the special events throughout the year at Washington Park Botanical Garden. It includes large Christmas and Easter displays. You can also learn more about gardeners, botanists, and nature by enrolling in educational programs.
Plan your visit
Be ready to park your car in the free private parking lot as you reach Washington park. The place opens at 6 am and closes at 10 pm. You can enroll for membership to access the tennis court by paying fees. Visitors are allowed to follow standard COVID rules.
