City: Birmingham, AL

Category: Parks & Recreation

Address: 1871 Green Springs Hwy.

Description: Opened in 1925 as Green Springs Park, George Ward Park was renamed in 1952 to honor Birmingham’s eccentric former mayor. This expansive park is one of the city’s most unique. It holds the distinction of containing Birmingham’s only official dog park and is home to the city’s only disc-golf course, a 24-hole course totaling nearly 7,200 feet. The park also features 8 hard-surface tennis courts and 6 softball fields that host local teams and even professional events on occasion. In addition to the various activities that take place at George Ward Park, the facility also serves as an ideal backdrop for reunions and get-togethers with its spacious pavilion. The park connects to the Vulcan Trail greenway via Green Springs Avenue South, located just south of the park. Through the efforts of The Friends of George Ward Park, the park recently underwent a reforestation project to enhance the natural surroundings. Things are only getting better at George Ward Park.