Chester’s Park System
The City’s park system is designed for family interaction and fun. Whether swimming, jogging, biking, fishing, playing tennis, roller blading, walking, picnics, family/class reunions, weddings or just enjoying the beauty of our open space, our park system is one of the best in the entire Delaware Valley. The parks are open to Chester residents at no expense. To schedule an event in the park, apply for a park permit through Parks Coordinator or download a permit by clicking here.
Chester Park – 72 acres
During the past few years Chester Park has enjoyed a flourishing period of rebirth and regeneration. This park is an excellent facility for long nature walks, jogging, biking, picnics, family/class reunions, or just to commune with nature. At this location is an outdoor roller rink, regulation tennis courts and soccer fields. Recently the City installed new swings, new picnic tables, park benches and made the park more handicapped accessible.
Ethel Waters Park
Nestled just seconds away from City Hall, this park is an excellent location for an evening along the Chester River. Ethel Waters Park is also a very good location for a wedding and wedding reception. The park was named in of the acclaimed singer and actress Ethel Waters, who was born and raised in Chester.
Washington Park – 13 acres
This Park is a favorite park for parents to bring their young children for playtime before or after dinner. Washington Park is also a favorite of the local sororities and fraternities for Easter egg hunts and Halloween parties. There is a picnic area for family gatherings, swings for toddlers and interactive play equipment for the curious young minds.
Barry Bridge Park – 7 acres
Set along side the Delaware River, the Barry Bridge Park provides beautiful views of the Commodore Barry Bridge. With a fishing pier, a plaza with numerous benches for enjoying the sights on the river and a great lawn for casual recreational activities, Barry Bridge Park is now one of the premier locations in the region for accessing and enjoying the Delaware River. It is also home of the Riverfront Ramble in Chester.
Memorial Park – 21 acres
The City of Chester swimming pool is a favorite recreational facility during the hot summer months. Also located in beautiful Memorial Park is a walking track for those citizens who enjoy a brisk walk around the park. If tennis is your game you will find two regulation courts to suit your serve.
Martin Luther King Park
As the newest addition to the City’s park system, MLK Park was made possible with the help of Laborer’s Local 413 and the other unions and volunteers. Just south of the J. Lewis Crozer library, a quiet green space has been developed to honor the memory of Dr. King. With numerous benches and attractive landscaping, this new park will serve as an area for passive recreation, quiet contemplation and peaceful gatherings. The second phase of MLK Park will occur in 2008 with the casting and installation of a bronze sculpture of Dr. King as the center piece of the park.