City-Brooks Community Park

City-Brooks Community Park, located in the southwestern part of East Baton Rouge Parish near Louisiana State University (LSU), spans over 154 acres and serves as a community hub offering diverse recreational activities. This park is managed by BREC (Recreation and Park Commission for East Baton Rouge Parish) and goes beyond the scope of a neighborhood park to cater to visitors of all ages for an entire day of outdoor enjoyment.

At the heart of the park is the historic City-Brooks Golf Course, a nine-hole course designed in 1926 by Tom Bendelow, notable for its mature trees and natural beauty. This course is also recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. For tennis enthusiasts, the Capital One Tennis Center offers lighted and unlighted courts, a hitting wall, and a pro shop with options for rentals and lessons. Adjacent to these facilities is an engaging labyrinth, designated for meditation and quiet reflection.

The park also caters to family-oriented recreation. A children's playground, a spray pad, and the Knock Knock Children’s Museum offer opportunities for hands-on learning and play. For adventure seekers, there is a 50-acre lake where permitted bank fishing provides a tranquil escape. However, motorized boats are not allowed. Other features include a dog park, open green spaces, and various paved walking loops and trails, including the City-Brooks Greenway, which connects the park to nearby areas like the University Lake Greenway.

Art and culture are integral to the park's identity. The Baton Rouge Gallery, located within the park, showcases contemporary art and hosts exhibitions and cultural events. Additionally, the park includes pavilions, picnic areas, and ball fields, making it an ideal venue for gatherings and sports activities.

In recent years, City-Brooks Community Park has undergone enhancements such as improved drainage, upgraded pavilions, and expanded dog park facilities. The ongoing University Lakes Project also aims to further improve the park’s lakes and shoreline to enhance connectivity and recreation options.