Lorenzi Park — Attraction in Las Vegas

Nice park with plenty to do.

Amenities: Playgrounds Splash Pad Pavilions (Reservations Available) Picnic Benches Tennis Courts Baseball Fields Basketball Courts Open Spaces Band Shell Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza Lakes (Fishing by Permit Only) Gazebo

Children's play areas with water play featurePicnic and shade structuresTennis courts, managed by No Quit Tennis AcademyBaseball fieldsBasketball courtsBand shellSammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza

History of the park:

One of the first parks in Las Vegas. French immigrant David G. Lorenzi, came to the Las Vegas Valley in 1911 lured by rumors of artesian wells that would transform the desert to farm land. He purchased 80 acres on the then outskirts of town in 1912. Having drilled one of the most abundant wells of its time, it fostered dreams David brought with him from France, to create a vineyard in the desert to make European-styled wines. However in 1912 Las Vegas was more of a beer and whiskey town so the vineyard idea quickly died. The abundance of water allowed Lorenzi to create the signature lakes still at the park today. First opened as Lorenzi’s Lake Park in 1926 with a pool, dance pavilion, two lakes with an island in each and orchards. Lorenzi charged very little to enter into the Resort. He made money from the amenities he provided. It became a local destination with rowboats, ice cream, fireworks, prize fights, horse races, dance contests, beauty pageants, and a band shell with weekly bands. The shell even doubled as an outdoor movie screen. The resort was busy during the prohibition era. It became a place where local socialites could go to ignore prohibition. Lorenzi wanted to sell the property for use as a city park. He offered it to the city for $70,000 in 1936. The city stated it was out of their budget. The property sold in 1940 to become a 48 room resort hotel named Twin Lakes Lodge. In the 1950s the resort hosted Nevada Test Site scientists and their families. Twin Lakes was prominent in another local "industry", dude ranching and divorce in Nevada. In most jurisdictions divorces were hard to get. You could not just state, "irrevocable differences" and seek a divorce. The resort played an important role as Divorce seekers were able to stay at the motel the six weeks required to establish residency. The motel also presented a real "Western" experience offering horseback riding, rodeo events, fishing, and authentic food. By 1965 the resort was finally purchased for $750,000 by the city to become a city park. In 2013 the City of Las Vegas re-opened Lorenzi Park after a $30 million upgrade. The lake was completely redone and reverted to its Twin Lake configuration. The band shell on the island was returned. New amenities have been created while keeping the flavor of...

Lorenzi Park is a landmark in history. Having been built over 80 years ago, this iconic park of Las Vegas needs a little TLC, I must say. With a handful of different areas to enjoy yourself; by reading one of the many plaques with useful information on them, the walkways for you to stroll, jog or skate, the benches to sit and take in the sunrise, or read a book, patio tables to enjoy a lunch with your family or friends, playgrounds for the children to run around in, grassy areas if you just want to throw a blanket and relax or a rose garden for you to enjoy (tho I didn't see any roses this time go round)... all areas are in much need of maintenance and care. From the poop filled ponds to trash and graffiti all around... while it's still a nice, quiet park, it does have much room for improvements.

As of 2024 I must say they did pick up the maintenence some. There's still quite a bit of trash in the bushes and poop on the sidewalks. I've seen a lot more people fishing tho and heard the trout is good eating.

Also, as with any park, just about, in any city, you'll find the gathering of homeless individuals. While none of them were a bother to me, minding their own business enjoying their day, there were a few individuals I would not give trust to or want to be around after sundown.

On a more positive note, the wildlife here is a pleasant site to see. There's a variety of different birds wading in the ponds and waddling the grounds. From many different species of ducks, to geese, pigeons, and doves. This park is their home, but they don't mind sharing it with you. The lakes are also stocked, I hear, so fishing is also an option, if that's your thing. I saw many people casting their lines into the water from single individuals to families and couples. It's a nice way to pass some time.

Overall, I go here to take my daily walks. I feel safe, and I accomplish my exercise without any setbacks, other than the letdown of the aesthetics and general appearance of the place.

If you love parks, this would be one to add to your list and visit here...

Lorenzi Park: A Lifetime of Memories

As a Las Vegas native who's watched this park evolve for decades, Lorenzi Park holds a special place in my heart. Tucked away on Washington between Rancho and Valley View, this 61-acre landmark has been my childhood playground, exercise ground, and personal time capsule.

Personal Journey Growing up, I've witnessed the park's transformation - from neglected spaces to gradual improvements. The lakes where I used to feed ducks, the walking trails where my family would spend weekends, and the playgrounds that shaped my childhood memories have undergone significant changes.

Park Highlights Historic 80-year-old landmark Stocked fishing lakes Diverse wildlife (ducks, geese, various bird species) Multiple recreational areas: Walking trails Picnic spaces Children's playgrounds Scenic resting spots

Honest Assessment While the park has improved since 2024, it still needs maintenance. Occasional trash and worn areas contrast with its natural beauty. The wildlife remains welcoming, and fishing enthusiasts continue to enjoy the well-stocked lakes.

Emotional Connection Despite its imperfections, Lorenzi Park represents more than just a public space - it's a living memory of Las Vegas's community spirit. Each visit reconnects me with childhood moments and the city's evolving landscape.

Recommendation: A must-visit for those seeking a slice of local history and natural...