A Guide to Westfield Parks

Westfield, New Jersey, is home to a variety of parks that offer something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, a place to play sports, or a spot to gather with family and friends. With lush green spaces, historical landmarks, recreational amenities, and picturesque settings, Westfield’s parks have become a cornerstone of community life. This guide provides an overview of some of the best parks in Westfield, NJ, highlighting their unique features and amenities.

Mindowaskin Park, located along East Broad Street near downtown Westfield, is a serene 12.6-acre park known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The park’s centerpiece is a large, spring-fed pond with a fountain, which provides a perfect backdrop for quiet walks and picnics. The park is home to an accessible playground for children of all abilities, a gazebo that serves as a venue for summer concerts, and beautifully manicured gardens. Visitors can enjoy the park’s winding walking paths and memorial trees, making it an ideal spot for reflection and relaxation. The park’s summer concert series hosted at the gazebo is a beloved tradition for families and music lovers in the community.

Tamaques Park, the largest park in Westfield, covers 106 acres of green space and offers an extensive range of recreational facilities. The park features six sports fields, eight tennis courts, three pickleball courts, and two basketball courts, making it a popular spot for sports enthusiasts. For those who enjoy outdoor fitness, Tamaques offers a 0.8-mile walking and jogging loop, complete with fitness stations along the way. Families can also take advantage of the park’s two playgrounds, 18 picnic areas with tables and grills, and a small pond. With its combination of sports amenities and nature, Tamaques Park is a central hub for community activities and events.

Located on Scotch Plains Avenue, Memorial Park spans 19.1 acres and is a well-loved destination for both recreational activities and relaxation. The park boasts four softball fields, open soccer fields, and tennis and pickleball courts. One of the park’s main attractions is the Westfield Memorial Pool & Aquatic Complex, which includes a 50-meter pool, water slides, a splash pad, and a diving area, making it a favorite spot for families during the summer months. The park also provides plenty of shaded picnic areas and green space for those looking to relax or enjoy a meal outdoors. Memorial Park is not only a place for recreation but also serves as a memorial, with a 9/11 memorial and commemorative trees paying tribute to those who served.

For nature lovers, Brightwood Park offers a 44-acre wooded preserve in the northwestern corner of Westfield. With 1.6 miles of unpaved hiking trails that wind through dense forest and around a tranquil pond, Brightwood provides a peaceful escape from the suburban bustle. The park is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with many species of birds to be seen in the wetlands and trees. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, offering visitors a chance to rest and enjoy the natural surroundings. Unlike many other parks in the area, Brightwood is maintained in its natural state, allowing visitors to connect with nature in its purest form.

Echo Lake Park, located on the Westfield-Mountainside border, is a stunning county park that offers something for everyone. The park’s centerpiece is the beautiful Echo Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating and fishing during the warmer months. There are also walking paths around the lake, providing an ideal location for a leisurely stroll or jog. Echo Lake Park is well-known for its 3-acre off-leash dog park, which is divided into areas for large and small dogs. The park also features baseball/softball fields, two playgrounds, picnic tables, and a snack bar, making it a popular spot for families. In addition, the park hosts summer events, including concerts, making it a vibrant part of the community.

Gumbert Park is an 8.3-acre recreational area located on South Chestnut Street. The park is especially popular for its sports facilities, including three Little League baseball fields and a basketball court. A paved path loops around the park, providing a space for jogging and walking. During the winter months, the park transforms into a seasonal ice rink, offering public skating sessions and hockey games. The Westfield Ice Rink at Gumbert Park is a unique feature, drawing locals for winter sports and activities. With its sports fields and winter rink, Gumbert Park is a year-round destination for active recreation.

Houlihan/Sid Fay Fields, located on Rahway Avenue, is a modern athletic field complex covering 4 acres. The facility includes two full-size synthetic turf fields, which are equipped with lighting for evening use. These fields are primarily used for soccer, lacrosse, and other field sports. The turf and lighting make it a reliable venue for games and practices, even during inclement weather. The fields are named in honor of two Westfield community members and serve as a testament to the town’s commitment to providing high-quality sports facilities for its residents.

Clark Memorial Park, located on Clark Street, is a quiet 9.5-acre park offering a peaceful setting for relaxation and reflection. The park features memorial trees and landscaped gardens, creating a tranquil atmosphere that is ideal for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment. The park’s gentle jogging path loops around the space, providing a peaceful spot for exercise. A picturesque gazebo adds to the park’s charm and is often used for small events or photo shoots. Clark Memorial Park is a serene oasis in the heart of Westfield, providing a quiet place for residents to enjoy nature and community.

Lenape Park is a vast 450-acre wildlife reserve that stretches through several towns, including Westfield. The park is known for its raised nature trail that runs through wetlands and woodlands, offering visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty of the area. Lenape Park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with several wildlife observation points and fishing areas along the Rahway River. While the park does not feature playgrounds or sports fields, it is an excellent spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors in its natural state.

Windsor Park, a small 1-acre park on Windsor Avenue, is a neighborhood park that serves as a community gathering spot. The park includes a playground with swings, slides, and climbing equipment, as well as a half-court basketball area for pick-up games. The park’s shaded picnic area provides a pleasant spot for local families to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors. Windsor Park may be small, but its amenities make it a valuable addition to the southern part of Westfield, offering a convenient and safe space for children and families.

Westfield, NJ is home to a diverse range of parks that cater to all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a serene escape in nature, a place to play sports, or a spot for family gatherings, Westfield’s parks offer something for everyone. With well-maintained green spaces, playgrounds, sports fields, and scenic areas, Westfield’s parks continue to be an important part of the community.

The Michelle Pais Group specializes in helping clients find their dream homes in Westfield, NJ. Their team is experienced in navigating the local real estate market and can help you find the perfect home near the town’s beautiful parks. Whether you're looking for a home with easy access to recreational spaces or a quiet retreat near nature, the Michelle Pais Group is here to assist.