John Stiff Memorial Park
The southwest part of Amarillo is a bustling hub for businesses. From locally owned stores to nationwide coffee chains, you can find it all right off Coulter St between Hillside and Western. If you find yourself in that area of town and are looking for a way to slow things down and enjoy the day, give John Stiff Memorial Park a visit.
Being the largest park located in the city, there is no shortage of activities to indulge in. John Stiff Memorial Park is the perfect place to go when you need a wide variety of outdoor ventures. In addition to the two playgrounds located in the park, there is a walking trail that surrounds them as well as one around McDonald Lake which is also located in the park. Fishing is optional at the lake; however, swimming is not permitted.
Aside from the open fields, walking trails, and playgrounds, John Stiff Memorial Park has its own dog park, John Stiff Memorial Dog Park. As long as your dog has a friendly demeanor and is not aggressive, you can bring them within a gated area specifically designated for them and let them off of their leash if you so please. With 2.3 acres of land to freely run around and play in, your dog is sure to love the experience.
If you don’t have a dog but would like to enjoy a nice day of outdoor activities, try reserving a tennis court or a sand volleyball court. Reservations are not required in order to use these facilities, but it ensures your spot. You could also check out the John Stiff Memorial Skate Park if you have the skills to take on all the half pipes and ramps.
In the summertime, beat the heat at the Amarillo Southwest Pool located on the east edge of the park. It is only open from about the end of May until the beginning of August and has concessions, a splash pad, restrooms, handicap accessibilities, and diving boards. The pool is also closed every Monday for regular maintenance checkups.
There are plenty of park benches to rest your legs. There are also public restrooms available for use within the park. After you’ve spent a good chunk of time checking out all the park has to offer, wander over to Water Still, located north of the east section of the park, to grab an ice-cold lemonade or tea. If you’re visiting during the colder months, pay a visit to Roasters, a locally owned and operated coffee shop that has been in business for over 30 years and is across the street from the park.
John Stiff Memorial Park is great for taking the kiddos or yourself to get a daily dose of vitamin D. Keep up with events happening in the park on the John Stiff Park Facebook page. To visit the park, head south on Bell St from SW 45th Ave and make a right on 48th Ave. From here, you can either follow Shoshone Trail to the sand volleyball courts and playground, where there are parking lots, or you can park on the street.
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