Hogan's Fountain Pavilion
Cherokee Park, a historic Olmsted design, offers rolling hills, scenic trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots. Once home to the iconic 'Witch's Hat' pa...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Hogan's Fountain Pavilion
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cherokee Park, a historic Olmsted design, offers rolling hills, scenic trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots. Once home to the iconic 'Witch's Hat' pavilion.
"Cherokee is a great park with playgrounds, trails, and picnic spots, a true urban oasis."
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Recent renovations have improved parking facilities, making it easier to access the park's amenities.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the extensive trails and park grounds with comfortable footwear for walking and running.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cherokee Park's Playgrounds & Splash Pad
Near Hogan's Fountain area
Perfect for families, offering fun for kids with a splash pad for hot days and nearby playgrounds.
Olmsted Park Trails
Throughout Cherokee Park
Explore scenic walking and cycling paths, including challenging hills for runners and peaceful routes for leisurely strolls.

Picnic and Relaxation Spots
Various locations in Cherokee Park
Find numerous spots for picnics, hammocks, and enjoying the natural beauty of this historic Olmsted park.
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A Historic Landmark's Demise
Cherokee Park's Enduring Charm
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Recent renovations have improved parking facilities, making it easier to access the park's amenities.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the extensive trails and park grounds with comfortable footwear for walking and running.
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Great for kids on hot days, but be aware the floor can get slippery due to algae.
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
Many areas offer ample shade from mature trees, perfect for relaxing on a sunny day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Recent renovations have improved parking facilities, making it easier to access the park's amenities.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the extensive trails and park grounds with comfortable footwear for walking and running.
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Great for kids on hot days, but be aware the floor can get slippery due to algae.
🌳 Enjoy the Shade
Many areas offer ample shade from mature trees, perfect for relaxing on a sunny day.
🏃♀️ Running Routes
The park features hills and multiple trails, ideal for various running challenges and organized runs like the Ugly Sweater Run.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Cherokee Park for its beautiful landscapes, playgrounds, and recreational opportunities. While the loss of the Hogan's Fountain Pavilion is noted, the park's amenities like the splash pad and walking trails continue to draw families and outdoor enthusiasts. Some mention the fountain not working and the splash pad floor being slippery.
"My grandkids loved the playground and the splash pad. The splash pad floor had some algae on it so it was slippery but the whole thing was good for a hot summer and day."
Rita Schooley
"Such a beautiful place. There's a bird sanctuary nearby & plenty of shady walking & cycling paths for a 🌞 day. Playgrounds in the area. Hills for some good running challenges."
Tanya Geraci
"Cherokee is a great park. The fountain is pretty, but doesn’t seem to have worked in some time. There are some nice shelters nearby and lots of people picnicking or slinging hammocks on the trees."
Dave Harlan
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hogan's Fountain Pavilion was located within Cherokee Park, Louisville, KY. The park is accessible by car, with parking available near the former pavilion site and other park amenities. Public transportation options may also serve the park's vicinity.
Cherokee Park is a large park with many trails and features. For first-time visitors, especially those with limited mobility, it can feel overwhelming. Consider using a park map or focusing on specific areas like the playground and former pavilion site.
You can explore Cherokee Park by walking, cycling, or even driving to different access points. The park offers a variety of paved paths and natural trails suitable for different activity levels.
Information on specific bus routes serving Cherokee Park can be found on the TARC (Transit Authority of River City) website. It's advisable to check their schedule for routes and stops closest to the park.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at various points within Cherokee Park. Specify your desired drop-off location within the park when booking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cherokee Park, including the area where Hogan's Fountain Pavilion was located, is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
As a park structure, Hogan's Fountain Pavilion was accessible during Cherokee Park's general operating hours, typically from dawn until dusk. The pavilion itself was demolished in July 2023.
Yes, some shelters and picnic areas within Cherokee Park can be reserved for events. It's best to check with Louisville Parks and Recreation for availability and reservation details.
While the pavilion is gone, events like the Ugly Sweater Run are held in Cherokee Park. Ticket or registration information for specific events would be managed by the event organizers.
Hogan's Fountain Pavilion was demolished in July 2023 due to structural concerns. The site is now an open area within Cherokee Park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The pavilion is gone, but the area in Cherokee Park is still a great spot for picnics, relaxing, and enjoying the park's atmosphere. The nearby playgrounds and splash pad are popular attractions.
Yes, there are playgrounds and a splash pad located within Cherokee Park, often enjoyed by families. The splash pad floor can be slippery due to algae, so caution is advised.
Cherokee Park offers a network of paved roads and unpaved trails suitable for walking and cycling. The park's hilly terrain provides varied challenges for runners and cyclists.
Yes, Cherokee Park is known for its natural beauty and is adjacent to a bird sanctuary, making it a good location for birdwatching.
Restrooms are available in Cherokee Park, often located near amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas.
📸 📸 Photography
While the iconic 'Witch's Hat' pavilion is gone, Cherokee Park still offers beautiful scenery. Capture shots of the rolling hills, mature trees, walking paths, and the general park landscape. The area around the former pavilion site can still be picturesque.
Yes, photography is generally permitted in Cherokee Park. For events, it's always good practice to be mindful of other attendees and respect any specific photography guidelines set by the organizers.
Nature photography, landscape shots, and candid photos of people enjoying the park are popular. The park's Olmsted design provides a classic, picturesque backdrop.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. It's best to check with Louisville Parks and Recreation if you plan on professional shoots.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the park's many trees provide shade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the immediate vicinity, the park boasts numerous open green spaces perfect for running around, picnicking, or simply letting kids explore. The walking paths are generally stroller-friendly, and the overall atmosphere is welcoming for families looking for a day of outdoor activity.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Events like the Ugly Sweater Run are hosted in the park, showcasing its suitability for organized fitness activities. Whether you're training for a race or just enjoying a brisk jog, Cherokee Park's landscape provides an engaging backdrop.
🌳 Nature Lovers and Photographers
Photographers will find plenty of picturesque scenes, from the sweeping vistas of the hills to the intimate details of the park's flora. While the iconic 'Witch's Hat' is gone, the park's Olmsted design still provides a beautiful and timeless setting for capturing memorable images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Hogan's Fountain Pavilion
Tragically, the pavilion's structural integrity deteriorated over time. After multiple assessments, it was deemed unsafe, leading to an emergency demolition order in July 2023. The loss of the pavilion was met with sadness by many Louisvillians who had fond memories associated with the structure.
While the pavilion is no longer standing, the surrounding area in Cherokee Park remains a vibrant space. The demolition has paved the way for potential future developments or simply an open green space, allowing the park to continue serving its community in new ways.
Exploring Cherokee Park: An Olmsted Masterpiece
The park features an extensive network of walking and cycling paths, including challenging hills that are popular with runners and cyclists. Visitors can also find playgrounds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and natural areas that support local wildlife, including a nearby bird sanctuary. The park's layout encourages exploration and offers something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Despite the removal of the Hogan's Fountain Pavilion, Cherokee Park continues to be a vital community hub. Its enduring appeal lies in its beautiful landscapes, well-maintained facilities, and its role as a place for recreation, relaxation, and community events.
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