Kennedy Park

Kennedy Park, located at the corner of Olive Street and Westmoor Street in South Bend, Indiana, is a community-focused recreational space offering a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages. The park features a blend of active and passive recreational facilities, catering to both children and adults. One of the highlights is the Kennedy Water Playground, a zero-entry water play area with shallow depths, specifically designed for toddlers and elementary-aged children. This water feature includes slides, a tire swing, multiple spray elements, and is complemented by small pavilions and picnic tables, making it a popular destination for families during the summer months.

The park also includes several other amenities: a modern playground with a 360-degree playable structure known as the Explorer Dome, basketball courts, a baseball diamond, and open grassy spaces for play and relaxation. Walking trails meander through the park, inviting visitors to enjoy its natural environment. Restrooms and concession stands are available, ensuring convenience for guests during their visit. Seasonal events, such as the "Drool in the Pool" dog-friendly day, add to the community engagement aspect of the park.

Plans for future improvements position Kennedy Park as an even more integral part of the neighborhood. These developments include the addition of an ADA-accessible walking path, expanded picnic pavilions, tennis and pickleball courts, and a new playground area. A significant investment is also being made to construct a public pool with lap lanes and a shallow space for children, enhancing recreational opportunities for the surrounding community.

Located in one of South Bend's most underserved neighborhoods, Kennedy Park is gradually transforming into a "destination park." It is already home to nearby facilities like the Kennedy Academy school and the South Bend Animal Resource Center, further integrating the park into the fabric of the community. This ongoing development aims to create a vibrant and accessible space that residents from across South Bend can enjoy.