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

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Best Time
Quieter trails, fewer crowds
McIntire Park
Best Time
Quieter trails, fewer crowds
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.
"A busy, happy place with great facilities for sports, nature, and community connection."
🚶♀️ 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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.

Nature Trails & Streams
Throughout the park
Explore serene walking trails winding through woods and alongside streams, perfect for birding and a peaceful escape.
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.

Kindness Cafe & Play
151 McIntire Park Drive
A cozy coffee shop supporting adults with cognitive disabilities, offering a warm atmosphere and delicious treats.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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!
⚾️ Game Day Vibe
Weekends are busy with sports games, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
☕️ Support Kindness Cafe
Grab a coffee at the Kindness Cafe, a non-profit supporting adults with disabilities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 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!
⚾️ Game Day Vibe
Weekends are busy with sports games, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
☕️ Support Kindness Cafe
Grab a coffee at the Kindness Cafe, a non-profit supporting adults with disabilities.
🌉 Pedestrian Bridge Access
Use the pedestrian overpass to safely cross train tracks when accessing the skate park.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Public transport options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient.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.
McIntire Park has walking trails and is accessible from surrounding areas. Biking is also a great option, with paths connecting to the park.
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.
Most areas, including some trails and the playground, are stroller-friendly. However, some natural trails might be uneven.
🎫 🎫 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.
The park is typically open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like the YMCA or sports fields may have their own operating hours.
For community events like Eggstravaganza, tickets might be required or there may be a participation fee. General park access is free.
General park rules apply, including leash laws for dogs in designated areas.
Some facilities within the park, like the YMCA pool, will have their own entry requirements.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.
Yes, there is a playground area, though some reviews suggest it might be small.
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.
The park offers sports fields, a skate park, a pedestrian bridge, and walking trails. Some reviews mention that bathroom facilities could use upkeep.
Absolutely! The wooded areas and streams provide a habitat for various bird species, making it a great spot for birding.
🍽️ ☕️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Kindness Cafe is located within the park, offering coffee and a menu of food items.
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.
The Kindness Cafe has a well-rounded menu with coffee and other items. It's a great place to support a local non-profit.
Being in Charlottesville, there are numerous restaurants a short drive away from McIntire Park, offering a wide variety of dining options.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy in the park's open areas.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, the wooded areas, streams, and diverse plant life make it an excellent location for nature photography, especially for capturing local flora and fauna.
Photography of public events is generally permitted, but always be mindful of privacy and consider asking for permission if focusing on individuals.
The notable Schumard Oak, recognized as a Landmark Tree, is a unique subject for photography, honoring Leroy W. Snow's legacy.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape and nature photography. Evenings can be atmospheric with the park's overhead lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed outing, the nature trails provide a safe and engaging environment for kids to explore the outdoors. The Kindness Cafe is also a family-friendly spot for a snack or coffee break. 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
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. 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
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring McIntire Park's Natural Beauty
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.
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. It's a quiet spot that adds a layer of historical significance to the park's natural appeal.
The Vibrant Sports and Recreation Scene
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. 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.
Beyond organized sports, the park also features a playground, though some reviews mention it's on the smaller side. 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
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. It's a place where community connection and delicious treats go hand in hand, offering a feel-good experience for all who visit.
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.
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