Addis Park

For those of us living in Connecticut, finding accessible and enjoyable outdoor spaces is a true blessing, and Addis Park in New Milford stands out as a significant local amenity. Located right on the scenic Housatonic River, this park offers a convenient gateway to various recreational activities, primarily focusing on river access and a pleasant environment for relaxation. It’s a clean and well-maintained area that serves as a valuable resource for the community, providing a refreshing escape from daily routines.

Addis Park is more than just a patch of green; it’s a designated space where New Milford residents can truly connect with the natural beauty of the Housatonic River. While it might be known for its boat launch and picnic facilities, it also offers a peaceful setting for those simply wishing to enjoy the views, walk their leashed dogs, or find a quiet spot to read by the water. It’s an essential part of New Milford's commitment to providing quality leisure opportunities and enhancing the quality of life through responsible management of its natural resources.

Addis Park is conveniently located in New Milford, Connecticut, at 279-237 Grove St, New Milford, CT 06776, USA. This address places it directly on the banks of the Housatonic River, making it an ideal spot for river-based activities and enjoying scenic waterfront views.

Accessibility to Addis Park is primarily by vehicle, with a designated parking area available for visitors. However, it's crucial for local users to be aware of the park's parking permit requirements. Addis Park is designated for New Milford residents, and a current town park sticker is required for each motorized vehicle using the facility. These stickers must be attached in a conspicuous place and are purchased annually through the New Milford Parks and Recreation Department. Senior citizen discounts are available for New Milford residents aged 65 and older. Additionally, any vessels entering the park (such as kayaks or boats for the launch) must also have current vehicle and launch pass stickers, and both vehicles and boats must be registered in the name of the New Milford resident.

While the park is generally easily accessible, the parking permit system ensures that local residents have priority and adequate space, especially during peak seasons. Security personnel are typically on duty from the first Saturday in May through the last Saturday in September to manage access and ensure compliance with the permit requirements. This system, while sometimes requiring a brief stop to obtain the necessary passes, is in place to preserve the park's quality and manage its use effectively for the benefit of the New Milford community.

Addis Park, while primarily a natural recreational space, provides several key services and amenities designed to enhance the outdoor experience for New Milford residents. These offerings cater to a range of passive and active leisure pursuits:

• Boat Launch: A significant feature of Addis Park is its boat launch, providing direct access to the Housatonic River. This launch is suitable for various watercraft, including kayaks, canoes, and even motorized boats (though the presence of larger motorized boats may vary). It's a popular spot for launching non-motorized vessels for a leisurely paddle on the river.

• Picnic Area: The park includes a dedicated picnic area, offering a clean and pleasant space for families and individuals to enjoy outdoor meals. These areas often come with picnic tables, providing a comfortable setting for gatherings.

• Dog-Friendly Environment: Addis Park is a welcoming space for canine companions, with leashed pets permitted within the park. This allows residents to enjoy walks with their dogs while adhering to responsible pet ownership guidelines. It’s important that all visiting dogs are licensed, current on vaccinations, and over four months old.

• Housatonic River Access and Views: Beyond the boat launch, the park offers general access to the banks of the Housatonic River, allowing visitors to simply enjoy the scenic river views, observe wildlife, or engage in passive recreation like fishing (where permitted).

• Parking Facilities: A designated parking lot is available at the park, although, as noted, a New Milford resident park pass is required for vehicle entry during the operational season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). This system helps manage capacity and prioritize local access.

Addis Park in New Milford, CT, offers a range of features and highlights that make it a cherished spot for local residents seeking outdoor enjoyment and river access.

• Housatonic River Access: The park's most prominent feature is its direct access to the Housatonic River. This makes it an ideal spot for launching kayaks and canoes, offering a starting point for scenic paddling adventures on one of Connecticut’s most significant waterways. Many kayakers use this launch to paddle south towards Lovers Leap or north towards the old bridge, appreciating the picturesque river scenery.

• Designated Boat Launch: Addis Park provides a specific area for launching boats. While motorized boats are allowed, the area is frequently used by those with non-motorized vessels, contributing to a more tranquil water experience for paddlers. This launch is a key resource for the New Milford boating community.

• Picnic Facilities: The presence of clean picnic areas and tables provides a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to gather, enjoy outdoor meals, and spend quality time together in a natural setting. It’s a perfect spot for a casual afternoon picnic by the river.

• Dog-Friendly Policy: For dog owners, Addis Park is a welcome amenity. Being able to bring leashed pets means that furry family members can also enjoy the fresh air and outdoor environment, making it a more inclusive recreational space for the whole household.

• Scenic Views: The park offers beautiful river views, especially as the Housatonic flows past. The natural surroundings contribute to a peaceful atmosphere, making it a pleasant place for quiet contemplation, reading, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

• Clean and Maintained Environment: Visitors consistently note the cleanliness of the park. This reflects the diligent efforts of the New Milford Parks and Recreation Department to maintain the area, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience for all users.

As a municipal park, Addis Park primarily serves the public good and does not typically engage in commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional retail sense. Its inherent value is in providing accessible recreational opportunities for the community. However, there are aspects of its operation that could be considered benefits or "offers" for local residents:

• Resident-Exclusive Access: The requirement for New Milford residents to obtain a park pass for vehicle entry, especially during the peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), acts as a "special offer" by prioritizing and preserving the park's resources for the local community. This ensures that New Milford taxpayers have preferential access to what can be a very popular amenity.

• Senior Citizen Discounts on Passes: For New Milford residents aged 65 and older, there is a discounted rate for the annual park sticker. This is a direct "promotion" for seniors, making access to the park even more affordable and encouraging their continued active participation in community life.

• Seasonal Access and Security: The presence of security personnel from May through September ensures a safer and more organized environment, which can be seen as a valuable service to pass holders, enhancing their overall experience.

• Community Programs and Events: While not always held directly at Addis Park, the New Milford Parks and Recreation Department frequently organizes various community programs, events, and activities. These might include guided nature walks, recreational sports, or seasonal gatherings. Residents with park passes or through their general engagement with the Parks and Recreation Department may gain early access or discounted rates to these broader town-sponsored initiatives. It’s always a good idea to check the New Milford Parks and Recreation website for their current program listings.

• Affordable Recreation: Compared to private recreational facilities, the cost of an annual resident park pass is a very affordable way to gain consistent access to a beautiful waterfront park and its amenities throughout the warmer months. This "value for money" is a significant benefit for local families and individuals.

For all inquiries regarding Addis Park, including information about park passes, facilities, or any operational details, the primary point of contact is the New Milford Parks and Recreation Department.

Address: 279-237 Grove St, New Milford, CT 06776, USA (for Addis Park itself)

For administrative inquiries, park passes, or general information about New Milford's parks, the Parks and Recreation Department office is located at:

John Pettibone Community Center
2 Pickett District Road
New Milford, CT 06776-3526

Phone: (860) 355-6050

Mobile Phone: +1 860-355-6050 (This appears to be the same main Parks & Recreation number)

Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM (It's always good to verify current hours on their website).

Email: parkandrec@newmilfordct.gov

You can also find a wealth of information, including fee schedules for passes and potentially online forms for applications, on the official New Milford Parks and Recreation website. This online resource is regularly updated with program details, facility information, and important announcements for residents.

Addis Park in New Milford is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Connecticut, particularly those within New Milford and its surrounding communities, for several compelling reasons. Primarily, it offers direct and convenient access to the beloved Housatonic River, a significant natural asset in our state. For residents seeking to enjoy the river for kayaking, canoeing, or simply taking in the waterfront views, Addis Park provides a clean, managed, and dedicated entry point. This ease of access encourages more frequent outdoor activity and a deeper connection with the local environment.

The park's amenities, including the picnic areas and its dog-friendly policy, cater to a variety of recreational needs for families and individuals alike. It’s a wonderful spot for a leisurely afternoon outing, whether you’re enjoying a packed lunch with loved ones, walking your leashed furry friend, or simply finding a quiet bench to read and unwind by the water. The emphasis on maintaining a clean environment enhances the overall experience, making it a truly pleasant place to spend time outdoors.

Furthermore, the resident-specific access through the park pass system, while requiring a minor initial step, ultimately serves to preserve the park's quality and ensures that New Milford residents have priority. This thoughtful management helps prevent overcrowding and maintains the serene atmosphere that makes the park so appealing. The affordability of these passes, especially with discounts for seniors, demonstrates the town's commitment to providing accessible recreation for all its citizens.

In essence, Addis Park is more than just a public space; it's a valuable community asset that directly enhances the quality of life for New Milford residents. It provides an accessible, well-maintained, and beautiful setting for a range of outdoor activities, fostering a sense of community pride and encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle right here in our own backyard.

Addis Park

279-237 Grove St, New Milford, CT 06776, USA