Churchill Downs Park

A Cozy Corner of Lawton

Located in Ann Arbor's Lawton district just off Steeplechase Drive, Churchill Downs Park might be small at just 1.18 acres, but it packs a surprising amount of charm into its modest footprint. This little local retreat sits quietly among residential homes, creating that perfect "just around the corner" vibe that makes local parks so special.

The surrounding houses give the park a protected, community feel - like you're hanging out in a shared backyard rather than a public space.

Little Explorer's Paradise

If you've got kiddos under eight, this is their territory. The playground isn't massive, but it offers just enough to keep the little ones entertained. There's a compact play structure featuring two slides (always a hit!) and various climbing challenges to test those growing muscles.

One of the coolest features is the "3 in a Row" game station that cleverly combines elements of tic-tac-toe and Connect 4. It's a nice touch that encourages both play and thinking - and maybe even a bit of friendly competition between siblings or friends.

The park also boasts a sandpit (just remember to bring your own toys) and a dome climber with crawl spaces that seem to endlessly fascinate younger children.

Beyond the Playground

Not just for the tiny tots, Churchill Downs offers a ½ basketball court where older kids and adults can shoot some hoops. There are also open green spaces excellent for tossing a frisbee, having a picnic blanket lunch, or simply lounging with a good book.

You'll discover scattered benches throughout the park, with some thoughtfully positioned under trees for those hot summer days when shade is a must.

Note that this park keeps things simple - there aren't restrooms, picnic tables, or pavilions here. But the connected sidewalk paths make it an easy addition to your neighborhood stroll or morning jog route. In its simplicity, Churchill Downs achieves that perfect balance of recreational space within a peaceful suburban setting.