Hermitage Park

3.5
Hermitage Park was my first foray into Hermitage. There’s a lot of the metro to explore, even if you’ve been here for a while. That’s why I think the metro’s green spaces offer such a great starting point to check it all out. So, Hermitage Park…
The first thing you notice when you arrive is the giant sun dial art piece. I don’t know that a lot of metro parks incorporate art so it’s cool to see the intersection at this one. It’s a curious conversation piece and on a late summer Sunday I think folks could have a nice chat around it. Actually, conversation is, probably, the park’s strong suit. It’s not massive in size but its form lends to community and interaction. What do I mean by that? To start, there’s a community center and library on the park campus. It’s a smart use of space that guarantees a good cross section of the community might encounter one another there. Secondly, there’s a well-​kept playground for all the kiddos to burn off energy and have a good time. The large pavilion and picnic center means that HP is a choice destination for reunions, get togethers and summer lunches. The bulk of the mature trees are surrounded by a (shallow) creek and an impressive wooden walkway. At the right time of day during the right weather, it could make for a romantic date spot.
I wouldn’t argue that Hermitage Park is a destination green space but, as a community resource, it does the job. The plentiful parking, considerate design and smart use of green make it a good option for families, couples or singletons on a stroll. Make time to check it out. Explore your metro.