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The original 50 acres of Hadwen Park were donated to the City by Park Commissioner Obadiah B. Hadwen in 1902. Hadwen Park has many winding nature trails, as well as a long, quick-flowing river that runs from Leesville to Curtis Pond. This park is only two minutes from Webster Square, lying across Curtis Pond from Hope Cemetery.

In addition to the hiking trails and river, this park also features a baseball diamond, updated basketball court, picnic area and accessible playground located in the north western section of the park.

The City of Worcester had two rope tow areas that operated in the 1960s. One was located at Green Hill Park within the Golf Course and the other was located at Hadwen Park. The rope tow at Hadwen Park was eventually converted into a pony lift before closing in the late 1980s. Today, the hill is used for sledding in the winter months.

Playtime

Playground Structure at Hadwen Park

While you're playing some basketball or baseball with family and friends, the kids can enjoy some playtime on the playground. There are many different types of climbing structures and swings to keep them entertained.

Take a Hike

Certainly a gem of a park and one of the most serene hiking areas in the city. Hadwen Park has many winding trails and steep hills, as well as a long, quick-flowing river that runs from Leesville to Curtis Pond. 

Large enough to provide a total escape from urban sights and sounds, the park is small enough for hikers to roam along a series of interconnected looping trails and paths through a wide range of natural terrain without needing a map.

Recent renovations of the park also include an accessible boardwalk on the banks of Curtis Pond. Get out and enjoy a walk through some of Worcester's green space.

Trail Entrance with Sign/Pillar

Also Check Out

View some of the other parks in the City. Get out and explore!

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Blackstone Gateway Park Entrance Walkway

Blackstone Gateway Park

District: 3

Blackstone Gateway Park is located about three miles south of Worcester's Downtown area. This new riverfront park stands out as a unique urban park in the City providing recreational amenities while maintaining the feel of a forested park surrounded by flowing water and large canopy trees.
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Cookson Field Silver Climbing Structures

Cookson Field

District: 4

Cookson Field is located within the College Hill residential neighborhood in south-central Worcester, near Holy Cross College and the Auburn border. The park site was purchased by the City of Worcester on June 3, 1936 from Herbert E. Howe, and named for Mayor Walter Cookson.
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Apricot Street Playground with Blue Tower and Tan Slides

Apricot Street Playground

District: 5

Apricot Street Playground is a small neighborhood park (2.3 acres) located on the corner of Merchant and Apricot Streets near the Worcester-Leicester line. This park features a small playground, a swing set, and a few picnic tables. Apricot Street Playground has been a City Park since 1940.

Quick Facts

Location: 19 Heard Street - Map

District: 5

Size: 58.1 acres

Parking Lot(s): Yes

Master Plan: View Master Plan

Features:

  • Baseball Diamond
  • Basketball Court
  • Nature Trail(s)
  • Picnic Area
  • Playground
  • Water Access

Contact Information

Address

Parks & Recreation
50 Officer Manny Familia Way
Worcester, MA 01605

Contact

Phone: 508-799-1190
Fax: 508-799-1293
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Hours

Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.