America’s top park cities, from free-throws to freestyle

By Trust for Public Land
Published April 15, 2015

America’s top park cities, from free-throws to freestyle

Attention data geeks and trivia buffs: the 2015 edition of City Park Facts is here! The latest report by The Trust for Public Land’s Center for City Park Excellence is packed full of the latest stats from the top hundred most populous U.S. cities— including who’s got the largest, oldest, and most-visited parks in the country.

Of course, how you define the perfect park system depends on how you like to spend your time. Here’s a look at which cities top the rankings for popular park activities. Some of them may surprise you!

Let’s start with some top spots to play ball.

Photo credit: Flickr user Edwin Martinez

Photo credit: Flickr user Thomas Hawk

Photo credit: Flickr user Damon Taylor

But for those happiest in the water …

Photo credit: Flickr user Grufnik

If you’d rather catch some air, you might want to head west.

Photo credit: Flickr user Linus Ekenstam

The left coast is also a good bet for those who need room to roam with a four-legged friend.

Photo credit: Flickr user Doug Brown

If you like to get your hands dirty …

Photo credit: Flickr user Katie Inglis

And for those who want to mix it up …

Photo credit: Flickr user Brennan Browne

The Center for City Park Excellence conducts research and tracks urban park trends around the country. It’s just one way we’re helping communities ensure that all residents have a park close to home—no matter what they choose to do once they get there. Learn more about The Trust for Public Land’s services here.

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