When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Burns Park
Why Burns Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Burns Park, spanning over 1,600 acres, is one of the largest municipal parks in Arkansas and offers an exceptional outdoor experience, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends. The park features a diverse array of amenities including tennis courts, multi-use paved and unpaved trails, a dog park, and multiple sports complexes for soccer, golf, tennis, disc golf, pickleball, baseball, and softball. Visitors can enjoy the amusement park with its accessible play area and splash pad, great for families and groups. Several playgrounds, pavilions, and covered bridges add to the park’s charm and usability. Burns Park also holds historical interests such as a WWII tank and a Union Pacific caboose, providing unique scenery for exploration and gatherings. The park is open daily from early morning until midnight, offering flexible hours for social activities and recreational fun. Additionally, Burns Park includes well-maintained golf courses with challenging terrains and event spaces, perfect for both casual and serious golfers. Despite experiencing tornado damage in 2023, the park has been restored with renovated pavilions and cleared pathways, ensuring most areas are accessible. Overall, Burns Park offers a comprehensive, vibrant space with varied activities conducive to socializing and recreation amidst natural beauty and community spirit.
Here's what people think of Burns Park
As of recent, Burns Park holds a 4.7-star rating based on 162 reviews.
Reviews of Burns Park reflect a generally positive community perception, with a strong rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 162 reviews. Visitors frequently praise the wide range of activities and well-maintained facilities, highlighting the expansive soccer fields and tennis courts, as well as the enjoyable disc golf course and playground areas. Many appreciate the park’s size and diversity, noting the beautiful trails and the convenience of amenities like dog-friendly paths and splash pads for children. Positive feedback also often mentions the well-kept golf courses and event venues, which add another dimension to the park’s appeal. On the other hand, some negative comments have been recorded regarding the condition of a few sports courts needing resurfacing and occasional unfriendly or unhelpful staff members, particularly in parking areas. A limited number of visitors have expressed concerns about maintenance issues or poor equipment at scoring stations. Despite these drawbacks, the overwhelming consensus praises Burns Park as an excellent destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and groups seeking a versatile outdoor environment. In summary, Burns Park continues to attract visitors who value its comprehensive recreational opportunities and community-oriented atmosphere, with ongoing improvements ensuring it remains a treasured public space.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joey Saez
Good, but small. Great for a quick walk during lunch.
Nicholas Kang
Love playing pickleball here! Large open grass field, had a lot of fun playing volleyball in the open area. Basketball courts are also available!
Maitri Ganguly
Never knew they had fireworks for 4th of July
Gabe Meyerson
It's a nice park, with two playgrounds (different age groups). I visited at night and it was one of those spots where, even though I have never been there before, just brought back a feeling of nostalgia.
Steve Winchester
Historic Burns Park, always clean and safe with many areas, with baseball diamonds, tennis courts, rentable "Warming House", ice rink in winter, many kid play structures...and "The Big Hill"!
How to reach Burns Park
None
Website: None
Why Burns Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Burns Park with your friends? Burns Park, with a solid 4.7-star rating from over 160 reviews, stands out as an exceptional venue for gathering with friends and family. This expansive park offers an inviting combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and well-maintained facilities that cater to groups of all sizes and interests. Whether you’re aiming for a relaxed day outdoors or an active meet-up full of sports and games, Burns Park provides the ideal backdrop. Its welcoming environment encourages socializing, playing, and enjoying nature together, making it more than just a park—it’s a community hub for fun and connection. The park’s large size ensures there is ample space for everyone to spread out, reducing stress over crowding and allowing your group to find the perfect spot to rally. From picturesque areas great for taking memorable photos to a variety of sports courts and playgrounds, Burns Park delivers a versatile destination where friendship and family bonds can thrive in the refreshing outdoors.
What activities can your group enjoy at Burns Park? Burns Park boasts an extensive range of activities that appeal to diverse tastes and age groups, making it perfect for a group meetup. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of tennis courts, basketball courts, and a well-reviewed golf course offering challenging but friendly play for all skill levels. The golf course includes a driving range and putting greens, ideal for both casual rounds and skill practice. For groups with younger members, there is a charming amusement park area and multiple playgrounds, including a spaceship-themed play zone, which guarantee smiles for the kids. Dog owners will appreciate the dedicated dog park where furry friends can run freely and socialize. Additionally, the park features large picnic pavilions and open fields great for barbecues, games, or simply lounging together. For active groups, walking and biking paths offer scenic routes, suitable for casual strolls or exercise sessions along wooded or open terrain. This diverse mix of activities ensures everyone in your group can find something enjoyable to do, making Burns Park a one-stop destination for quality time.
Why is Burns Park the perfect spot for a group meetup? Burns Park’s size and variety of amenities naturally lend themselves to meeting up with a mix of friends or family members with different interests. The park's sprawling layout allows groups to split into sub-groups to participate in different activities simultaneously, then regroup for meals or relaxation in shaded picnic areas. Facilities such as restrooms, parking, and benches are well-maintained and conveniently located, which makes a group gathering hassle-free. The park’s design incorporates both lively spaces such as sports courts and quieter spots for conversation or peaceful nature enjoyment. Having a community feel, Burns Park encourages social interaction—not only within your own group but also with other park visitors, enhancing the friendly atmosphere. Furthermore, its location near North Little Rock makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors, ideal for scheduling planned reunions or spontaneous meetups. With an overall excellent rating, the positive visitor feedback highlights the park’s readiness to host memorable group events surrounded by outdoor beauty.
What should groups keep in mind when planning a visit to Burns Park? While Burns Park offers many attractions and generally friendly surroundings, visitors recommend planning the timing of your visit thoughtfully for the best experience. The park is most enjoyable in the early mornings or midday when crowds are lighter and families are more commonly present, creating a safer and more pleasant environment. Some past visitors have noted occasional presence of unruly teens or large, less approachable crowds in the later afternoon or evening, so attending during daylight hours with your group ensures comfort and security. Another important consideration is the maintenance of some facilities; while many amenities like playgrounds and courts are kept in good condition, certain courts may show wear and require resurfacing. Checking the status of specific amenities before your event can help avoid surprises. Additionally, Burns Park is dog-friendly, but bringing along necessary supplies such as water and waste bags benefits everyone in the group and park community. Being mindful of these factors helps organize a smoothly run outing where everyone can relax and have fun.
What unique features and nearby attractions enhance the Burns Park experience for groups? Alongside the wide array of recreational options within Burns Park, several unique features and nearby sites enhance its appeal as a meetup location. One standout feature is the scenic covered bridge, a favorite spot for photography and a charming landmark to explore as a group. The park’s natural surroundings encompass both open fields and wooded areas, creating a diverse landscape for exploration, picnics, or nature walks. Within a short driving distance, the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park, Simmons Bank Arena, and the University of Arkansas-Little Rock offer additional cultural and entertainment options for groups looking to combine outdoor fun with other experiences. The availability of well-equipped community buildings and picnic pavilions also allows for hosting larger parties or organized celebrations with access to full kitchen facilities. This combination of on-site features and local attractions makes Burns Park not just a place to play, but a hub for extended group activities and memorable gatherings.
How does the golf course at Burns Park cater to groups and golf enthusiasts alike? The Burns Park Golf Course is a premier feature that draws golf lovers as well as groups looking for a challenging yet enjoyable experience. Designed by Steve Ralston and operational since 1994, the course offers beautiful views and well-groomed fairways suitable for players of all skill levels. It has multiple tees to accommodate different levels of play, with lengths ranging from about 4,900 to over 6,700 yards. Groups can enjoy casual rounds or friendly competitions, aided by the course’s practice facilities, including a driving range and putting greens. Metal spikes are not allowed, promoting a course-friendly environment for all players. Rentals for carts and clubs are available, making it accessible for visitors who don’t have equipment on hand. The golf course’s year-round availability and hospitality make it an excellent option for a group outing focused on sport, leisure, and camaraderie in a beautiful outdoor setting.
What amenities support convenient and comfortable group gatherings at Burns Park? Burns Park is well-equipped to ensure that groups can enjoy their visit with ease and comfort. Adequate free parking areas are available, important for larger groups arriving in multiple vehicles. Restroom facilities across the park are generally clean and well-maintained, reducing inconvenience during long visits. Picnic pavilions provide sheltered spaces for group meals, protected from sun or rain, which is important for all-day meetups or special celebrations. Benches and shaded seating areas dispersed throughout help guests take breaks between activities. While some visitors have reported occasional issues like deficient scoring tools for sports or certain courts needing resurfacing, overall the park invests in upkeep and upgrades to maintain a high-quality group experience. The staff’s friendliness and general park safety contribute to a welcoming environment that encourages repeated visits and longer stays.
Why do families and pet owners choose Burns Park as their go-to meetup destination? Families are drawn to Burns Park for its safe, engaging, and diverse spaces tailored for children, including playgrounds and an amusement park area that captivates young imaginations. The playground with its spaceship theme is particularly popular, offering a creative environment for children to play and explore together. Parents appreciate both the large grassy areas for games and the ample shade for rest, supporting comfortable and fun outings. Pet owners benefit from the park’s dedicated dog park where dogs can run off-leash in a secure area, plus trails with dog waste stations supporting responsible pet care. This combination makes Burns Park a prime choice for gatherings that include pets and children, where every family member, four-legged included, can enjoy themselves safely and happily within a single location.
How does Burns Park balance the natural environment with recreational infrastructure for group activities? Burns Park strikes an impressive balance between preserving natural scenery and offering modern recreational facilities that cater to varied interests. The park incorporates diverse natural landscapes including wooded areas, open meadows, and river access, allowing groups to immerse themselves in nature. Simultaneously, it hosts an array of built amenities — sports courts, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a golf course — all integrated thoughtfully so groups can both relax and engage in activity. Walking trails and biking paths weave through the scenic parts of the park, encouraging exploration. This careful integration provides groups with the flexibility to choose between energetic sports, tranquil nature time, or socializing spaces, no matter how large or diverse the gathering might be. Burns Park’s attention to maintaining this natural-recreational harmony makes it stand out as a refreshing venue for memorable group outings.
What tips ensure an optimal group experience at Burns Park? To get the most from your group meetup at Burns Park, consider scheduling your visit in the morning or midday to avoid crowds and enjoy a calmer atmosphere. Bringing your own sports equipment, picnic supplies, and pet necessities helps ensure your group’s comfort and convenience, as some amenities might be limited or show wear. Check the park’s website or contact park management ahead of time to confirm availability of facilities like picnic shelters or the community building for rental if you plan a special event. Make safety a priority by staying aware of your surroundings and encouraging group members to stick together, especially if visiting in the evenings. Lastly, be respectful of other park users and the natural environment by cleaning up after yourselves and following park guidelines, which helps preserve the park’s positive reputation and keeps it a welcoming spot for all.
This thorough consideration of Burns Park’s offerings shows why it is an excellent option for groups aiming to enjoy a day or event together. With outstanding facilities, diverse activities, a safe and natural environment, and proximity to additional attractions, Burns Park provides everything needed for a successful and enjoyable group gathering. Whether playing sports, dining outdoors, exploring nature, or simply relaxing, your meetup at Burns Park will be memorable and rewarding.