Donovan Park — Attraction in Peoria

Decent-sized park with plenty of green space and picnic tables, making it perfect for walking dogs or just enjoying the outdoors. There are several small ponds within the park where catch-and-release fishing is encouraged, though the size of the ponds and contents within might pander to a casual audience or young children more than serious hobbyists. The layout of the park is neat in that it used to be a golf course, and the on-site observatory is a unique feature to see. The park is lacking several amenities I'd expect from a public park, such as bathrooms and maintained, paved walking paths. The existing paved paths tend to end abruptly and start again elsewhere, with hilly greens in between, which isn't ideal if you're looking for a casual place to walk. Overall, there are better parks in Peoria, but Donovan Park is unique enough to visit...

Who wouldn't enjoy getting some take-out food from your favorite restaurant and having a meal at the park. I love that a has-been golf course has been turned into a huge public space for everyone to enjoy. Lots of area to walk. Several ponds with active wildlife. Popular place to bring your dog (leash required). The evening views are fantastic since there is lots of open space, but still many mature trees to find shade. In the summer when the grasses are tall, mowed paths create fun trails to explore. Decent parking, can get disorganized if busy as parking spot lines are none existent or hard to see. Consider using the Rock Island trail to access the park while on a walk or bike ride. If you get hungry and don't have food or need a drink check out Cyd's in the Park. There is also an observatory with limited summer hours open...

This park was recently a golf course and has one sand trap for practicing with your clubs. It has no paths. It is a mix of mown areas and naturalized areas. There are picnic tables mostly around the only parking lot. There aren't playgrounds at this time. It is a good spot for cross country skiing when there is a few inches of snow. It can be a pleasant walk. It fills the need for a green space, but at this time isn't one you would travel to. Three small ponds do attract a few waterfowl. Update May 2018: The practice green has been removed. Tables are more scattered around the park. A restaurant called Cyd's has opened a shop and will soon open a full restaurant in the...