Elmwood Park

Welcome to Elmwood Park, a cherished green space nestled right here in East Orange, New Jersey. More than just a patch of grass, Elmwood Park serves as a vibrant hub for recreation, relaxation, and community engagement for residents across our city. Whether you're looking for an active afternoon or a peaceful escape, this local gem offers a diverse range of amenities designed to cater to individuals and families alike. From energetic playgrounds for the little ones to well-maintained sports facilities for adults, Elmwood Park embodies the spirit of local outdoor living. It's a place where friendships are forged, healthy habits are nurtured, and memories are made, all within the familiar comfort of our East Orange community. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to what makes Elmwood Park a cornerstone of our local lifestyle, highlighting its features and why it remains a top choice for residents seeking quality outdoor experiences.

Elmwood Park is recognized as a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle of East Orange, providing essential green spaces for residents to enjoy. Its peaceful and scenic setting makes it a favorite spot for family outings, personal downtime, and simply enjoying the outdoors. As a key destination within East Orange, it contributes significantly to the city's offering of recreational activities.

Elmwood Park is conveniently located in East Orange, New Jersey, specifically at the address East Orange, NJ 07018, USA. Its central position makes it easily accessible for most residents of East Orange, whether by foot, bicycle, or car. The park is situated to be a local landmark, serving the neighborhoods around it. While specific public transport routes directly to the park might vary, East Orange boasts a robust public transportation network, including bus services that likely have stops within a reasonable walking distance of the park. For those driving, street parking is generally available in the surrounding residential areas. The park's accessibility is a key factor in its popularity, allowing many members of our community to enjoy its facilities without extensive travel. Its presence in a residential area ensures that it is a natural extension of daily life for many local families, providing a convenient escape into nature and recreation right on their doorstep.

The ease of access contributes significantly to Elmwood Park’s role as a true community park. Its strategic location in East Orange means that a refreshing outdoor experience or an active sports session is never too far away for local users.

Elmwood Park provides a wide array of services and facilities designed to accommodate various interests and age groups. These amenities contribute to making it a well-rounded and popular destination for East Orange residents.

• Kids Playground: A dedicated and safe area where children can play and burn off energy, featuring age-appropriate equipment for endless fun.
• Tennis Courts: Multiple courts are available for tennis enthusiasts, complete with lighting that extends play into the evening hours, typically until 10 PM. This allows for recreational and competitive matches even after sunset.
• Swimming Pool: A refreshing swimming pool is on-site, providing a perfect way to cool down during the warmer months. It offers a recreational opportunity for both serious swimmers and those looking to relax by the water. Pool badges are available for residents at a cost of $25 for adults (18+) and $10 for youth (3-17), with family badges at $50. Non-residents can obtain badges for $75 (adults) and $45 (youth). The Elmwood Pool is located at 128 Oak Street, East Orange, NJ.
• Exercise Section: An area equipped for various exercises, catering to those who wish to engage in outdoor fitness routines.
• Handball Courts: For fans of handball, dedicated courts are available, offering another avenue for athletic activity.
• Basketball Court: A court for basketball allows for casual games and organized play among friends and community members.
• Running Track: The park features a running track for joggers and walkers. While it is noted as not being padded, it provides a dedicated space for cardiovascular exercise.

It is worth noting that while the park offers many excellent facilities, past user feedback indicates that water fountains are currently unavailable, and the bathrooms are often not open. This is information that local users should keep in mind when planning their visits.

Elmwood Park stands out in East Orange due to several distinctive features and highlights that enhance the user experience. These elements contribute to its appeal as a local community hub.

• Lighted Tennis Courts: A significant advantage for tennis players, the availability of lights means that the courts can be used well into the evening, providing extended hours for practice and matches after work or school. This makes it a highly convenient option for busy residents.
• Dedicated Kids' Playground: The presence of a modern and safe playground ensures that Elmwood Park is a family-friendly destination. This space allows children to engage in active play in a secure environment, making it a popular spot for parents and guardians.
• Outdoor Swimming Pool: The park's swimming pool is a major draw, especially during the summer. It offers a refreshing escape from the heat and a fantastic opportunity for recreational swimming, swimming lessons, or simply lounging poolside.
• Variety of Sports Courts: With tennis, basketball, and handball courts, Elmwood Park provides a diverse range of options for sports enthusiasts. This multi-sport offering caters to a wide spectrum of athletic interests within the community.
• Exercise and Running Facilities: The inclusion of an exercise section and a running track provides valuable resources for those focused on fitness. It allows residents to pursue their exercise goals in an outdoor setting, contributing to a healthier lifestyle.
• Community Gathering Space: Beyond its individual amenities, Elmwood Park functions as a natural gathering place for the East Orange community. Its open spaces and various attractions encourage social interaction, community events, and a sense of local camaraderie.

Despite these positive highlights, it's important to reiterate that some users have noted the lack of readily available water fountains and frequently open public restrooms. Planning ahead with these considerations in mind can help ensure a more comfortable visit.

While Elmwood Park primarily operates as a public park with standard access for its facilities, there are specific offerings and events that locals can take advantage of. The City of East Orange's Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs often organizes events and programs within the city's parks, including Elmwood Park, which can be considered special opportunities for residents.

One notable offer relates to the swimming pool access. For residents of East Orange, pool badges are offered at a significantly reduced rate compared to non-residents. Adults (18+) can purchase a badge for $25, and youth (3-17) for $10. Additionally, a family badge is available for $50, covering two adults and three children, or one adult and four children, all residing in the same household. These discounted rates are a promotion for local families, making the pool an affordable and accessible summer amenity.

Beyond this, the Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs frequently hosts seasonal programs and events in East Orange parks. For instance, in the past, events such as "National Tennis Month" sessions at Elmwood Park, and the "Althea Gibson Tennis Tournament" have been scheduled. These events, while not strictly "promotions" in a commercial sense, offer free or low-cost opportunities for community members to participate in sports, learn new skills, and engage with their neighbors. Information about upcoming events and any potential special programs would typically be disseminated through the East Orange municipal website or local community calendars. Staying informed through these channels is the best way for local residents to discover and participate in any special offers or free community programming at Elmwood Park.

For general inquiries related to Elmwood Park and its facilities, especially concerning recreation programs and pool information, locals in East Orange can reach out to the City of East Orange Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs.

• Address: Elmwood Park is located in East Orange, NJ 07018, USA. For administrative inquiries related to the city's recreational facilities, the East Orange Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs can be contacted via the general municipal offices.
• Phone: (973) 414-4141
• Mobile Phone: +1 973-414-4141 (This number is typically the same as the main phone for direct calls.)

It is always advisable to call ahead for the most up-to-date information regarding park hours, pool operating schedules, specific event details, or any potential changes to facilities, particularly concerning the availability of restrooms or water fountains, which have been noted as sometimes being an issue. The Department of Recreation and Cultural Affairs is the primary point of contact for details on the park's amenities and any community-related programming.

Elmwood Park is undeniably a cornerstone of the East Orange community, offering a vital green space and a wide array of recreational opportunities that make it exceptionally suitable for local residents. Its multifaceted amenities cater to a diverse population, ensuring that there's something for everyone, from the youngest members of the family to those looking for a rigorous workout.

For families, the vibrant kids' playground provides a safe and engaging environment where children can socialize, explore, and simply enjoy being active outdoors. Parents can relax knowing their kids are in a dedicated play area. The presence of a swimming pool, especially with resident-friendly pricing, means that cooling off during New Jersey's warm summers is both convenient and affordable, a huge advantage for local families seeking relief and fun without having to travel far.

Active individuals and sports enthusiasts will find Elmwood Park to be an ideal spot. The lighted tennis courts extend playing hours, accommodating busy schedules. The basketball and handball courts offer spaces for team sports or friendly competitions. Even though the running track isn't padded, it provides a dedicated area for joggers and walkers to maintain their fitness routines in a pleasant outdoor setting. The exercise section further enhances the park's appeal as a local fitness destination.

Beyond the specific facilities, Elmwood Park fosters a strong sense of community. It’s a place where neighbors can meet, connect, and enjoy shared experiences, whether it's a casual stroll, a pickup game, or simply sitting on a bench enjoying the fresh air. Its convenient location within East Orange minimizes travel time, making it a natural extension of residents' homes and daily lives. While minor issues like the lack of consistent public restrooms and water fountains are noted, these are often manageable with a bit of planning, and the overall benefits of having such a comprehensive park within the city far outweigh these small inconveniences.

In essence, Elmwood Park is more than just a park; it's a vital community asset that promotes healthy living, offers accessible recreation, and strengthens the fabric of East Orange. For anyone living in the area, it stands as a testament to the community's commitment to providing quality outdoor spaces, making it an indispensable part of local life.

Elmwood Park

East Orange, NJ 07018, USA