Parks & Recreation
When it’s time for fun and recreation, Washington has a lot to offer in ways of scenic parks, nature areas and athletic organizations.
The 60-acre Sunset Park boasts of many picnic shelters, modern playground equipment and a swimming area. Sunset Park’s pergola and gazebo are beautifully surrounded by masterfully planned flower gardens and has formed a magical setting for many weddings and photography sessions.
A $2 million Aquatic Center was added to the community in the year 2000. Its zero depth entry, 11,000 square-foot pool displays a water play area with geysers, a body flume slide and concession stand area. Lounge chairs decorate the sides of the pool for easy access to those just wanting to soak up the sun. The Aquatic Center is definitely the place to cool down during the long, hot summer months.
Resting in the midst of Sunset Park, surrounded by mature trees and flower gardens, is “New Dawn at Sunset,” an impressive, wooden playground. Children can run and play on various ramps, bridges, tunnels and towers. While the children are playing, adults can set up lunch at one of the many picnic tables or shelters the park has to offer. The only problem will be choosing which beautiful area in which to relax and spend time with the family.
The most current addition to the park was added with the bike, rollerblade, and skateboard enthusiast in mind. The skate park includes a three-foot quarter pipe, six-foot quarter pipe, a mini ramp, a fun box and a grind box. It has been designed to challenge the extreme athlete and to provide a safe environment for the ambitious amateur.
Sunset Park’s nine-hole Frisbee golf course is the longest disc golf course in the State of Iowa. It contains cement tee pads, tree and marsh hazards and hills. During summer months Frisbee golf attracts plenty of players.
Another park to enjoy is North Park, located just north of the Stewart Elementary School grounds. This traditional park holds jungle gym equipment, swings and slides that are the right size for the youngest members of the family.
The Washington Community Y, combining its YMCA and YWCA, is reputed to be the largest in a community under 7,500. The Y sports an indoor pool, gym, weight room and fitness center, racquetball courts, a teen center, and provides senior dining and child daycare. The Community Y offers year round activities for all ages, including floor hockey, volleyball and basketball to mention a few.
If you are an avid bowler, Melody Lanes has eight lanes to offer open bowling, league bowling and cosmic bowling. Melody Lanes extends bowling time to the seniors, and for the tiniest of bowlers, provides bumper bowling.
For the golf participant, Washington Golf and Country Club is open to serve its members and their guests. The golf course has also made available tee times for nonmembers. The Country Club plays host with food and beverages throughout the year. Golfers can enjoy the challenges of the 9-hole golf course, and if you are up for more golfing challenges, visit one of the three other courses within Washington County.
Hiking, biking, fishing and canoeing can all be experienced at Marr Park and Lake Darling State Park, both located in Washington County. There are places to pitch a tent and get close to the great outdoors. Those who love RV’ing will find hookups and bathroom facilities.
