Harrybrooke Park

Nestled in the picturesque town of New Milford, Connecticut, Harrybrooke Park stands as a true local treasure, offering a serene escape and a vibrant hub for community life. This 48-acre non-profit park, bordering the tranquil Still River, provides a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities that make it a beloved destination for residents across Connecticut. More than just a park, Harrybrooke is a testament to the generosity of Frank and Elizabeth Harden, who gifted this stunning property to the people of New Milford in 1965, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for generations to come. From leisurely strolls along its scenic paths to family picnics amidst lush greenery, Harrybrooke Park embodies the charm and tranquility of New England’s natural landscape. It’s a place where you can connect with nature, explore local history, and enjoy quality time with loved ones, all within the comforting embrace of a community-focused environment. Harrybrooke Park operates entirely on donations and the tireless efforts of volunteers, with over 10,000 hours of volunteer work contributed each year, highlighting the deep community pride and commitment to maintaining this beautiful space.

Harrybrooke Park is conveniently located at 100 Still River Dr, New Milford, CT 06776, USA. Its prime position in New Milford makes it easily accessible for residents throughout Litchfield County and beyond. The park's entrance road leads you into a peaceful sanctuary, where mature trees like sycamores, red maples, and white pines greet you upon arrival. The park is open year-round, from sunup to sundown, providing ample opportunity for visitors to enjoy its beauty in every season. While the park itself is open to the public, certain facilities within, like the Harden House Museum, may operate on specific hours or by appointment. Visitors are encouraged to check the park's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and accessibility details for specific areas. The park is designed with easy navigation in mind, featuring a one-way driving loop that helps ensure pedestrian safety, especially with children often playing throughout the grounds. This thoughtful layout contributes to a relaxing and safe experience for all who visit.

Harrybrooke Park is more than just open space; it offers a variety of services and facilities designed to enhance your visit and support community gatherings.

• Event Rentals: The park boasts several pavilions and open spaces available for reservation, ideal for everything from casual picnics to large-scale events. Popular options include the Conn Pavilion and Ohmen Pavilion, which come equipped with picnic tables. Other spaces like Large Pines, Small Pines, Pond East, Pond West, and the Great Lawn can also be reserved for various gatherings. These areas provide a safe and functional setting in the heart of nature, making them perfect for family reunions, corporate outings, or any celebratory occasion.

• Wedding Venue: Harrybrooke Park and the Harden House Museum serve as a stunning and historic wedding venue. Couples can utilize the Gated Garden for ceremonies, with its unique aisle of engraved custom bricks, and host receptions in one of the pavilions or a tent. The Harden House Museum itself can be used as a bridal preparation area and offers breathtaking views of the Still River. The park's staff can provide setup and cleanup services and even offer a list of preferred vendors for catering, florists, photographers, and more, making wedding planning smoother.

• Museum Access: The Harden House Museum, the former residence of Frank and Elizabeth Harden, is a central feature of the park. This beautifully preserved early 1940s Cabana-style mansion overlooks a rushing waterfall and houses original furnishings and valuable collections, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former owners. Small events can also be booked within the museum, accommodating up to 35 people.

• Volunteer Opportunities: As a non-profit organization, Harrybrooke Park thrives on community support. They actively welcome volunteers for various tasks, including event planning, landscaping and gardening, fundraising, museum cleaning, and general park maintenance. This provides a wonderful opportunity for locals to contribute to the upkeep and success of this cherished community asset.

Harrybrooke Park is rich in features that draw visitors seeking both relaxation and recreation.

• Paved Walking Path: A major highlight for many visitors is the nicely paved walking path that loops around the park. This approximately three-quarter-mile trail is ideal for leisurely walks, jogging, or even biking, offering a pleasant way to experience the park’s natural beauty. It’s a clean and well-maintained route, perfect for those looking to enjoy some fresh air and exercise.

• Picnic Areas: Throughout the park, you’ll find inviting picnic areas, some equipped with tables and grills. These spots are perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, providing scenic backdrops for outdoor dining amidst nature.

• Peacocks: A unique and much-loved feature of Harrybrooke Park is the presence of resident peacocks. These magnificent birds add a touch of exotic beauty to the park and are a particular delight for visitors of all ages. Their return to the park in recent years has been met with great enthusiasm from the local community, as they were once a cherished memory for many who visited in their youth.

• Harden House Museum: Beyond its use as an event venue, the Harden House Museum itself is a significant feature. It's a historical gem filled with original art, furniture, and personal belongings of the Hardens, offering a fascinating peek into early 20th-century life and local history.

• Still River and Waterfalls: The park’s location along the Still River provides stunning views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. Multiple breathtaking waterfalls add to the park's scenic charm, creating picturesque spots for reflection and photography. A new kayak launch on the Still River further enhances recreational opportunities.

• Gardens and Pond: Harrybrooke Park features beautifully maintained gardens and a tranquil pond with two fountains, adding to its aesthetic appeal and providing peaceful spots for contemplation or observation of local wildlife, such as ducks and turtles.

• Diverse Wildlife: In addition to the peacocks, the park is home to a variety of local wildlife, including red tail hawks, foxes, rabbits, deer, and herons, making it a wonderful spot for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

While specific, ongoing promotions may vary, Harrybrooke Park is known for hosting a vibrant calendar of community events throughout the year. These events often serve as special offers themselves, providing unique experiences for visitors. Past and recurring events include:

• Summer Concert Series: Enjoy outdoor concerts on the park's expansive lawn, a popular way to spend summer evenings.

• Seasonal Festivals and Holiday Celebrations: The park frequently hosts events that bring the community together, aligning with various holidays and seasons.

• Educational Workshops and Historical Tours: Opportunities for learning are often available, sometimes tailored for school groups.

• "Medium in the Museum" events and Garden Yoga: These regular offerings provide unique ways to engage with the park's serene environment.

• Fundraising Events: Given its non-profit status, the park often holds special events to raise funds, such as the "Who's Your Daddy?" Grilling Competition, "Hog Wild Hustle" obstacle course, and "The Big Jeep Thing" car show. These events are not only fun but also contribute directly to the park's maintenance and programs.

For the most current information on upcoming events, promotions, or special offers, it is always recommended to check Harrybrooke Park's official website or social media channels.

To learn more about Harrybrooke Park, inquire about event bookings, or get involved, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: 100 Still River Dr, New Milford, CT 06776, USA

Phone: (860) 799-6520

Harrybrooke Park is more than just a local landmark; it’s an integral part of the New Milford community and a true asset for all Connecticut residents. Its suitability for locals stems from a multitude of factors, making it a recurring destination for leisure, recreation, and community engagement.

Firstly, its unparalleled natural beauty provides a much-needed respite from the demands of daily life. The well-maintained walking paths, scenic river views, and tranquil pond offer a peaceful environment for leisurely strolls or invigorating jogs. For families, the open spaces and picnic areas provide perfect settings for outdoor play and memorable gatherings. The presence of peacocks adds a unique and delightful element, enchanting visitors of all ages and creating lasting childhood memories for many.

Secondly, the park's commitment to preserving local history through the Harden House Museum offers an educational and cultural dimension. It’s a chance for locals to connect with the past and appreciate the legacy of those who shaped this beautiful area. The museum, with its original furnishings and art, transports visitors back in time, making history tangible and engaging.

Finally, Harrybrooke Park thrives as a community hub, hosting a diverse array of events throughout the year. From lively summer concerts to seasonal festivals and charitable fundraisers, there’s always something happening that brings people together. This vibrant calendar of events fosters a strong sense of community and provides opportunities for residents to connect, celebrate, and support a cherished local institution. The fact that the park is entirely supported by donations and the tireless efforts of volunteers underscores its value as a community-driven initiative, a place that truly belongs to the people. While some visitors have expressed a desire for dog-friendly areas, the park's overall cleanliness, excellent maintenance, and serene atmosphere make it a consistently positive experience for most. Harrybrooke Park truly is a "slice of heaven" in New Milford, offering a place for relaxation, recreation, and community spirit for all who call Connecticut home.

Harrybrooke Park

100 Still River Dr, New Milford, CT 06776, USA