McIntire Park - a park with benches and trees
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McIntire Park

4.4
·639 reviews·Charlottesville, United States

Charlottesville's McIntire Park offers a dynamic blend of nature trails, sports fields, and a renowned skate park, fostering community and recreation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter trails, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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McIntire Park - a park with benches and trees

McIntire Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter trails, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Charlottesville's McIntire Park offers a dynamic blend of nature trails, sports fields, and a renowned skate park, fostering community and recreation.

4.4
(639 reviews)

"A busy, happy place with great facilities for sports, nature, and community connection."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Trails

Discover peaceful walking paths through woods and by streams, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

🛹 Skate Park Fun

The skate park is a major draw for all ages; check it out even if you don't skate!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skate Park Thrills

Skate Park Thrills

Near the pedestrian bridge

An impressive concrete skate park for all ages and abilities, offering a fantastic space for skateboarding and fun.

Reddit
Nature Trails & Streams

Nature Trails & Streams

Throughout the park

Explore serene walking trails winding through woods and alongside streams, perfect for birding and a peaceful escape.

InstagramReddit
Sports Fields Galore

Sports Fields Galore

Various locations

Home to baseball and softball fields, this park is a hub for local sports, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.

Reddit
Kindness Cafe & Play

Kindness Cafe & Play

151 McIntire Park Drive

A cozy coffee shop supporting adults with cognitive disabilities, offering a warm atmosphere and delicious treats.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Leash Up for a Smoother Stroll

While McIntire Park offers beautiful trails, unleashed dogs can be a concern for some visitors, especially those with reactive pets. Be aware that off-leash dogs are sometimes present, and consider alternative parks if strict leash policies are a priority for your visit. Reddit

Timing is Key for Peak Enjoyment

McIntire Park buzzes with activity, especially on weekends with sports games and events. For a more serene experience, aim for weekdays or early mornings to enjoy the trails and natural beauty with fewer crowds. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter trails, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday mornings
Why
Lively sports atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings with lights
Why
Enjoyable into the night
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Props to the Allied Knights of McIntire Little League in Charlottesville, VA! 👊 Way to put in good reps — and thanks for sending a clip! 🎥 Coach reports improved accuracy & velocity in one session. Opposing batters don’t love that, but we do! 🚀 #littleleague #pitchingdrills #pitching #pitchingcoach
@throwmotrainer
15 likes • 5.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Trails

Discover peaceful walking paths through woods and by streams, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. InstagramReddit

🛹 Skate Park Fun

The skate park is a major draw for all ages; check it out even if you don't skate! Reddit

Come join us Thursday September 21st @ 4pm at McIntire Family Park! We’re going to do a little fall craft, let the kids play while mamas connect and enjoy some yummy snacks 🍪🥛 You may have noticed I’m not calling this a “postpartum” support group anymore, and that is because all moms need community. Our need for connection does not end with toddlerhood. So please! Invite your friends, family and ...
soullynourished
36 likes • 2.3K views
Eggstravaganza is happening at McIntire Park today from 10 am - 12 pm! Lots of fun for the whole family. Join us!!
cvilleparksandrec
12 likes • 1K views

⚾️ Game Day Vibe

Weekends are busy with sports games, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Reddit

☕️ Support Kindness Cafe

Grab a coffee at the Kindness Cafe, a non-profit supporting adults with disabilities. Instagram

If we walked around barefoot in the grass more, I guarantee we’d be happier 🌳 . . . . . #charlottesville #mcintirepark #walkinthepark #nature #bluejay #birds #trees #virginia #getoutside #Outdoors
k3ervin
3 likes • 270 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Embrace the Trails

Discover peaceful walking paths through woods and by streams, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. InstagramReddit

🛹 Skate Park Fun

The skate park is a major draw for all ages; check it out even if you don't skate! Reddit

⚾️ Game Day Vibe

Weekends are busy with sports games, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Reddit

☕️ Support Kindness Cafe

Grab a coffee at the Kindness Cafe, a non-profit supporting adults with disabilities. Instagram

🌉 Pedestrian Bridge Access

Use the pedestrian overpass to safely cross train tracks when accessing the skate park. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(639 reviews)

Reviews Summary

McIntire Park is a vibrant community hub praised for its diverse recreational facilities, including an excellent skate park and well-maintained sports fields. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty of its walking trails and the positive atmosphere created by local events and activities. While the playground might be small and some facilities could use upkeep, the park generally offers a lively and engaging experience for all ages.

"Wow! Out of town visitor on a beautiful Saturday, the park was busy and the YMCA was well utilized. Pool, courts, playground, skateboard parks, ball fields were all filled with active families."

Ted Barila

"Went on an overcast saturday. Parking lot was quite busy due to so much baseball! Kids were having fun, adults having fun it was a great happy place. We walked over the great looking pedestrian bridge to the equally impressive concrete skate park. Definitely needed in this town. Stroller friendly in most places but also a very cool trail system between the park and school."

Ben Lang

"Playground area is quite small and bathroom area needs upkeep.

Might be nice if you have little ones who need to play during a baseball or softball game, but I wouldn't recommend it for older kids."

Jason L

What People Like

Impressive skate park
Lively sports atmosphere
Beautiful nature trails

What People Dislike

Small playground area
Bathroom upkeep needed
Unleashed dogs reported

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

McIntire Park is located at 151 McIntire Park Drive, Charlottesville, VA. It's accessible by car, with parking available near various facilities like the skate park and sports fields. Instagram Public transport options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient. Reddit

Yes, there are parking lots available, particularly near the skate park and sports fields. However, these can get busy on game days or during events. Reddit

McIntire Park has walking trails and is accessible from surrounding areas. Biking is also a great option, with paths connecting to the park. Reddit

The park is quite large, with multiple access points. The main entrance on McIntire Park Drive leads to the YMCA and Kindness Cafe, while other entrances serve the sports fields and skate park. Instagram

Most areas, including some trails and the playground, are stroller-friendly. However, some natural trails might be uneven. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

McIntire Park is a public city park and generally does not have an admission fee for general access to trails and open spaces. Instagram

The park is typically open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like the YMCA or sports fields may have their own operating hours. Instagram

For community events like Eggstravaganza, tickets might be required or there may be a participation fee. General park access is free. Instagram

General park rules apply, including leash laws for dogs in designated areas. Reddit Some facilities within the park, like the YMCA pool, will have their own entry requirements. Instagram

Information on reserving picnic areas or event spaces would typically be managed by the Charlottesville Parks and Recreation department. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking on nature trails, birdwatching, skateboarding at the skate park, playing on sports fields, and visiting the playground. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a playground area, though some reviews suggest it might be small. Reddit

Dogs are allowed, but there have been reports of unleashed dogs, which can be an issue for some visitors. It's advisable to keep your dog on a leash. Reddit

The park offers sports fields, a skate park, a pedestrian bridge, and walking trails. Some reviews mention that bathroom facilities could use upkeep. Reddit

Absolutely! The wooded areas and streams provide a habitat for various bird species, making it a great spot for birding. InstagramReddit

🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Kindness Cafe is located within the park, offering coffee and a menu of food items. Instagram

While there aren't dedicated picnic areas explicitly mentioned, the park's open spaces and trails are suitable for picnics. Bring your own food and enjoy the natural surroundings. Instagram

The Kindness Cafe has a well-rounded menu with coffee and other items. It's a great place to support a local non-profit. Instagram

Being in Charlottesville, there are numerous restaurants a short drive away from McIntire Park, offering a wide variety of dining options. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's open areas. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The nature trails with streams and trees offer beautiful natural backdrops. The pedestrian bridge and the skate park also provide unique urban photography opportunities. InstagramReddit

Yes, the wooded areas, streams, and diverse plant life make it an excellent location for nature photography, especially for capturing local flora and fauna. Instagram

Photography of public events is generally permitted, but always be mindful of privacy and consider asking for permission if focusing on individuals. Instagram

The notable Schumard Oak, recognized as a Landmark Tree, is a unique subject for photography, honoring Leroy W. Snow's legacy. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape and nature photography. Evenings can be atmospheric with the park's overhead lights. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

McIntire Park offers a good mix of activities for families. The playground is a hit with younger children, and the open fields are great for running around. Reddit On weekends, the park buzzes with energy from sports games, which can be entertaining for kids to watch. Instagram Consider visiting during community events like Eggstravaganza for extra family fun. Instagram

For a more relaxed outing, the nature trails provide a safe and engaging environment for kids to explore the outdoors. Instagram The Kindness Cafe is also a family-friendly spot for a snack or coffee break. Instagram While some areas might be busy with sports, weekdays or early mornings offer a calmer experience for families with toddlers. Remember to check for any specific event details or potential crowds.

👟 Active Adventurers & Athletes

McIntire Park is a dream for active individuals. The skate park is a major draw, offering a well-regarded concrete facility for skaters of all levels. Reddit If you're into team sports, the baseball and softball fields are top-notch and frequently in use. Reddit

For those who prefer a more solitary pursuit, the extensive walking and hiking trails offer a great way to get exercise while enjoying the park's natural scenery. InstagramReddit The park's layout, with its varied terrain and facilities, makes it an ideal destination for a day filled with physical activity, from intense sports to peaceful exploration.

🐶 Dog Owners

McIntire Park offers lovely walking trails through wooded areas and alongside streams, which can be enjoyable for dogs. Instagram However, be aware that there have been reports of unleashed dogs in the park, which can be a concern for owners with reactive pets or those who prefer stricter leash policies. Reddit If you encounter off-leash dogs, consider using the pedestrian bridge to access different areas or exploring alternative parks with more clearly enforced leash rules. Always keep your dog under control and be mindful of other park users. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring McIntire Park's Natural Beauty

McIntire Park is a haven for nature lovers, boasting a network of walking trails that meander through serene woods and alongside gentle streams. These paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a peaceful escape from the urban bustle. Visitors often highlight the opportunities for birdwatching here, making it a popular spot for amateur ornithologists and anyone seeking a connection with local wildlife. InstagramReddit

The park's natural areas are well-maintained, providing a pleasant experience for those who enjoy being outdoors. The combination of trees, water features, and open green spaces creates a diverse ecosystem that contributes to the park's tranquil ambiance. Whether you're looking for a short walk or a longer hike, McIntire Park's natural side offers a refreshing retreat. Instagram

One unique natural feature is the Schumard Oak, recognized as a Landmark Tree, planted to honor Leroy W. Snow. This tree stands as a testament to the park's history and its commitment to preserving natural heritage. Instagram It's a quiet spot that adds a layer of historical significance to the park's natural appeal.

The Vibrant Sports and Recreation Scene

McIntire Park is a dynamic hub for sports and recreation, particularly known for its baseball and softball fields. On weekends, these fields are alive with activity, hosting games and creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Reddit The energy is palpable, making it a great place to catch a local game or simply enjoy the community spirit. Instagram

A major attraction for younger visitors and sports enthusiasts is the impressive concrete skate park. This facility is designed for skaters of all ages and abilities, offering a challenging and fun environment. Reddit Many visitors praise its quality and the enjoyment it brings to the community. Accessing the skate park often involves using a pedestrian overpass to safely cross train tracks, a detail worth noting for first-time visitors. Reddit

Beyond organized sports, the park also features a playground, though some reviews mention it's on the smaller side. Reddit The presence of these diverse recreational facilities ensures that McIntire Park caters to a wide range of interests, from competitive athletes to families looking for active outdoor fun.

Community and Connection at Kindness Cafe

Nestled within McIntire Park is the Kindness Cafe, a unique establishment that goes beyond serving coffee. Located at 151 McIntire Park Drive, inside the Brooks YMCA, this cafe is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing meaningful employment for adults with cognitive disabilities. Instagram

The cafe offers a cozy atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy a beverage or a bite to eat. Visitors can choose from a well-rounded menu, and by patronizing the cafe, they directly support its important mission. Instagram It's a place where community connection and delicious treats go hand in hand, offering a feel-good experience for all who visit. Instagram

This initiative highlights McIntire Park as more than just a recreational space; it's a place that fosters social inclusion and community support. It's a wonderful example of how public spaces can integrate social enterprises to benefit the wider community. Instagram

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