Located in the heart of Ft. Lauderdale across from the Galleria Mall is this somewhat hidden nature oasis. You might drive past and not even register that a park is here. The park is named in honor of George English, a lawyer who stopped in Ft. lauderdale on his way to Miami in 1925 and never left. Instead of continuing to his destination he accepted a job as the city assistant to the City Attorney and ended up shaping Ft. Lauderdale for the next 60 years. Mr. English was a lawyer, banker, businessman, city executive and civic leader. His accomplishments including helping to build the Sunrise Causeway, founding two banks, obtaining the historic Stranhan House, and shaping the role of City Manager in government. Once you know his name you can find it all over the city. Mr. English passed away at the age of 94 in 1993.

George English Park is located on the Middle Rover. Park amenities include a boat ramp, exercise path, tennis center, recreation center, basket ball courts, playground, picnic pavilions, tables, and grills. Lining the waterway of the park are mangroves which are very important to the health of the river. The mangroves act to filter the water and serve as a nursery for marine life.

Fishing is allowed in the park but Ft. Lauderdale has had several sewer breaks this past year and they have affected the health of the water including at this park. Until this infrastructure problem is brought under control it is something to keep in mind. Another negative aspect of this park is it is generally popular with the homeless although I did not see any during my visit and I felt very safe exercising.

On the day I visited people were playing tennis and basketball and kids were having a ball on the playground. Everyone was enjoying the beautiful weather and lovely water view. This park serves as a wonderful memorial to a man who loved and worked so hard for his adopted hometown of Ft. Lauderdale.