Hogan's Fountain Pavilion - brown and white wooden house near green trees during daytime
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Hogan's Fountain Pavilion

4.7
·69 reviews·Louisville, United States

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
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Hogan's Fountain Pavilion - brown and white wooden house near green trees during daytime

Hogan's Fountain Pavilion

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.7
(69 reviews)

"Cherokee is a great park with playgrounds, trails, and picnic spots, a true urban oasis."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cherokee Park's Playgrounds & Splash Pad

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

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

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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Planning Your Visit

A Historic Landmark's Demise

Hogan's Fountain Pavilion, once a beloved 'Witch's Hat' structure, was demolished in July 2023 due to structural instability. While the iconic pavilion is gone, the surrounding area in Cherokee Park remains a vibrant hub for recreation and community gatherings. Instagram

Cherokee Park's Enduring Charm

Despite the loss of the pavilion, Cherokee Park itself is a sprawling urban oasis. Visitors can still enjoy playgrounds, splash pads, walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and bird sanctuaries. It's a fantastic spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter park experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Not Forgotten. #olmsteadparks #cherokeepark #abovelouisville #witchshat #hoganspavilion #gonebutnotforgotten #abovelouisville
stevegrider
203 likes • 0 views

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Recent renovations have improved parking facilities, making it easier to access the park's amenities. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

Explore the extensive trails and park grounds with comfortable footwear for walking and running. Reddit

Hogan’s Fountain Pavilion to undergo emergency demolition Fourth structural assessment finds pavilion continues to move LOUISVILLE, KY. (July 24, 2023) – Emergency demolition on Hogan’s Fountain Pavilion at Cherokee Park will begin this week. Louisville Metro Government issued an order for emergency demolition of the structure last week after finding extensive deterioration of the structure, mak...
riotheartmedia
128 likes • 0 views
Witch’s Hat (Hogan’s Fountain Pavillion at Cherokee Park) . Please please be replaced with something just as cool . . #cherokeepark #louisville #louisvilleart #drawing #inkdrawing #witchshat #hogansfountain #sketch #pendrawing #parkdrawing #landscape #architectural #architecturedrawing
lukeown_art
123 likes • 0 views

💧 Splash Pad Fun

Great for kids on hot days, but be aware the floor can get slippery due to algae. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Shade

Many areas offer ample shade from mature trees, perfect for relaxing on a sunny day. Instagram

The Witch's Hat is gone. We've been to countless cookouts here. What are some memories you have of Hogan's Fountain Pavilion? #HogansFountainPavilion #WitchsHat #Louisville #News
riotheartmedia
86 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Ample Parking Available

Recent renovations have improved parking facilities, making it easier to access the park's amenities. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

Explore the extensive trails and park grounds with comfortable footwear for walking and running. Reddit

💧 Splash Pad Fun

Great for kids on hot days, but be aware the floor can get slippery due to algae. Reddit

🌳 Enjoy the Shade

Many areas offer ample shade from mature trees, perfect for relaxing on a sunny day. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Running Routes

The park features hills and multiple trails, ideal for various running challenges and organized runs like the Ugly Sweater Run. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(69 reviews)

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

What People Like

Beautiful park scenery
Great playgrounds
Splash pad fun

What People Dislike

Fountain not working
Slippery splash pad floor

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Hogan's Fountain Pavilion was demolished in July 2023 due to structural concerns. The site is now an open area within Cherokee Park. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, Cherokee Park is known for its natural beauty and is adjacent to a bird sanctuary, making it a good location for birdwatching. Reddit

Restrooms are available in Cherokee Park, often located near amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Nature photography, landscape shots, and candid photos of people enjoying the park are popular. The park's Olmsted design provides a classic, picturesque backdrop. Instagram

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. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the park's many trees provide shade. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cherokee Park is a fantastic destination for families. The area near the former Hogan's Fountain Pavilion site offers access to playgrounds and a splash pad, which is a huge hit on hot summer days. While the splash pad floor can be a bit slippery due to algae, it's still a great way for kids to cool off and have fun. Reddit

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. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts

For those looking for a workout, Cherokee Park offers a challenging and scenic environment. The park's rolling hills provide excellent opportunities for hill training, and the network of paved roads and trails allows for varied running and cycling routes. Reddit

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. Instagram

🌳 Nature Lovers and Photographers

Cherokee Park is a haven for nature lovers. Its mature trees, open meadows, and proximity to a bird sanctuary offer ample opportunities for birdwatching and appreciating the natural landscape. Reddit

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Hogan's Fountain Pavilion

Hogan's Fountain Pavilion, affectionately known as the 'Witch's Hat' due to its distinctive conical roof, was a beloved landmark in Louisville's Cherokee Park. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted's firm, it served as a popular gathering spot for decades, hosting countless picnics, events, and casual get-togethers. Its unique architecture made it a recognizable symbol of the park. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Exploring Cherokee Park: An Olmsted Masterpiece

Cherokee Park is one of Louisville's most cherished public spaces, designed by the renowned landscape architecture firm of Frederick Law Olmsted. The park is celebrated for its picturesque rolling hills, scenic drives, and diverse recreational opportunities, embodying Olmsted's vision of providing natural beauty and respite within an urban setting. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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