Finding activities to do outside in Stamford during the warm summer months is a walk in the park—quite literally. Of the 58 parks available to the public, there is, without a doubt, one fit for every occasion. “Each park has its own special meaning and character for Stamford residents,” said Kevin Murray, the city’s Operations Manager of Parks & Facilities. “The beach parks during this time of year typically get the most attention, as they offer views that are utterly breathtaking.” From swimming and sunbathing to running, roller blading, biking and virtually every other recreational activity imaginable, Stamford is a haven for park-goers of all kinds. Here are some of the top parks to hit up on your next lazy summer afternoon.
An 83-acre park and beach located in the Cove section of Stamford, offer visitors an abundance of opportunities for an enjoyable day beneath the warm summer sun. Bring your running shoes, pack your bathing suit and maybe even sneak in those rollerblades—this coastal haven has it all. Recreational facilities include a one-mile walking/running loop, a playground for the children, roller blade/cycling path, and large expanses of lawns for kite-flying, frisbee, a game of catch or a good, old-fashioned picnic overlooking the Long Island Sound. Go on an excursion along an interpretive nature trail, or stop by the state-of-the-art nature center to learn all about the site’s coastal resources and species. The best part? No matter what you choose to do, you can always cool off at one of the park’s two sandy beaches, making for the perfect end to a perfect day.
Skip the gym this summer, and get in your daily workout at the park—Scalzi Park, to be exact. Outdoor sport options here are endless, with 12 lighted tennis courts, as well as basketball, volleyball, baseball and softball fields, a running loop, cement skate park and even a bocce ball arena! “Scalzi is a very active park located close to downtown,” commented Murray. “In addition to its recreational features, there is also a unique playset in the middle of the park that has a water spray feature for kids to enjoy and cool off.”
West Beach and Cummings Park
Located on Shippan Avenue, West Beach and Cummings Park, which are connected by Cummings Marina, together offer two sandy beaches accompanied by multiple high quality sport fields, courts and amenities. West Beach comprises 27 acres, while Cummings Park has 79 acres, complete with a snack bar, boardwalk and fishing pier. Passes can now be purchased at the park.
Taking a walk downtown? Stop by Mill River Park, a world-class expanse of lush lawns, rushing water and serene, natural surroundings. Sustained by the local non-profit Mill River Park Collaborative, which includes representation from numerous facets of the Stamford community, this locale is often described as the city’s own “Central Park.” The protected area is known for hosting numerous popular fitness activities all summer long including zumba, pilates and yoga in the park. In addition, outdoor movies are a Friday night favorite, providing ample ways to take advantage of this lovely 31-acre green escape both day and night.
Commons Park
Over at Harbor Point, the pristinely kept Commons Park has plans for increased development, as BLT wishes to further activate the thriving area’s 12 acres of open space, which also includes Harbor Point Square and the nearby waterfront boardwalk. Biederman Redevelopment Ventures Corporation (BRV), a world-class firm best known for revitalizing NYC’s Bryant Park, was recently commissioned to assist in successfully completing the project. In the meantime, be sure to catch a movie in the park starting on June 15th at dusk, and continuing every Wednesday for the remainder of the summer.