Phelps Grove Park

Phelps Grove Park is a historic 30-acre green space located in central Springfield, Missouri. Established in 1914, it was one of the first parks acquired by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. The park is named after John S. and Mary Whitney Phelps, one of Springfield's founding families, whose homestead originally included the area of the park and surrounding neighborhood.

The park is known for its mature trees, which provide ample shade and contribute to its peaceful atmosphere. A 0.7-mile paved walking and fitness trail circles the park, offering visitors a scenic route for exercise or leisurely strolls. The park's landscape is further enhanced by Fassnight Creek, which runs through the grounds and features stone lining added by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in the 1930s.

Phelps Grove Park retains several historic features from its early days, including a fieldstone pavilion, bridges, and entry gates on Dollison Avenue that date back to the park's creation. In the past, the park housed zoo animals, which were relocated to Dickerson Park Zoo in 1923, and a man-made lake that has since been replaced by the Springfield Art Museum.

For families and children, the park offers playgrounds and the McGee-McGregor Wading Pool for children 6 and under. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the Perry Tennis Courts and a baseball field. The park also includes the Victims' Memorial Garden and a WaterWise Garden, adding to its diverse landscape and recreational offerings.

Throughout the year, Phelps Grove Park serves as a focal point for community gatherings and events, providing a tranquil green space in the heart of Springfield for residents and visitors alike to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.