Rotary Park

If you're looking for the perfect place for a family getaway or an active day outdoors in Washington State, Rotary Park is an excellent choice. This modern 8-acre community park is located in the southern part of Wenatchee, USA. It is widely considered the most visited recreational spot in the county, thanks to its well-kept grounds and variety of activities.

The park was born from a unique collaboration between three local Rotary clubs and the city department. It’s not just a green space but a true hub of attraction for residents and tourists alike. Here, expansive lawns for relaxation harmoniously blend with modern playgrounds and sports fields, creating an atmosphere of comfort and safety.

Key features of Rotary Park include a water splash pad to beat the summer heat and the recently opened Peace Plaza. With high ratings and glowing reviews, the park has established itself as a model space for people of all ages—from toddlers on the climbing structures to seniors strolling along the shaded paths.

For more details about facility rentals or hosting events at Rotary Park, you can use the official contact information for city services:

Everyone will find something to enjoy at Rotary Park, whether it's active sports or a quiet retreat in nature. Fans of fast-paced games can test their skills on the 9-hole disc golf course, or play a game of basketball or tennis. The new pickleball courts, which opened recently, have become especially popular and are a real hit with the locals.

For families with children, the main draw is the modern playground with an emphasis on climbing. During the hot summer months, kids (and adults!) love spending time at the splash pad—a water zone with refreshing misters. If you prefer walking, the park's lit trails are perfect for a stroll, including with your four-legged friends—there are even dedicated dog waste bags provided.

Those looking to organize a large gathering should check out the picnic areas. The large shelter can accommodate up to 100 people, making it a popular spot for celebrations and barbecues. Additionally, the park features an atmospheric amphitheater for events and quiet corners at Peace Plaza where you can simply sit on a bench and enjoy the cleanliness and order of the surroundings.

Getting to this picturesque spot in Wenatchee is quite simple. The park is located at 1401 Kirby Ln, in a cozy residential area. If you're traveling by car from the city center, the drive via Maple Street or Kirby Lane takes only 5–10 minutes. Convenient parking is provided on-site for visitors.

For those who prefer public transport, Wenatchee Valley Transit buses serve the southern part of the city. The park is also easily accessible on foot or by bicycle from neighboring areas, as the neighborhood is equipped with safe sidewalks and paths.

If you're arriving from further away, the nearest airport, Pangborn Memorial (EAT), is just 10 kilometers (about a 15-minute drive) away. From the airport, it is most convenient to reach the park by taxi or rental car, as there are no dedicated shuttles running to this location.

The history of Rotary Park is an inspiring example of how a local community can transform an urban environment. The 8-acre site, which previously housed a fruit orchard, was purchased by the city of Wenatchee in 1997. The large-scale project to turn the vacant lot into a park began in 2002 at the initiative of three local Rotary clubs to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Rotary International.

Interestingly, the original plan was to build a baseball complex, but a multipurpose recreation area was eventually chosen instead. The park's design was developed by landscape architecture students from Washington State University (WSU). City authorities and volunteers worked side-by-side: during site preparation, the city saved about $200,000 thanks to eco-friendly soil remediation, while Rotarians contributed over 18,000 hours of volunteer labor. The official opening took place on July 7, 2005.

The park continues to evolve today. In 2019, a final large picnic shelter was added, and in the fall of 2023, the Peace Plaza and modern pickleball courts were officially inaugurated. This project brought together businesses, volunteers, and the city administration, turning a former orchard into the city's most visited public space.

A typical visitor will need between 1 and 3 hours to leisurely stroll along the trails and soak in the park's atmosphere. If you're just planning to walk the lit paths or play a round of disc golf, one hour should be plenty.

Families with children who want to visit the playground and cool off at the summer splash pad should set aside about 2–3 hours. However, if your goal is to host a barbecue or a large picnic in one of the shelters, your stay in the park could easily stretch to half a day.

Rotary Park is open to visitors daily from 06:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This schedule applies throughout the week, Monday through Sunday, making it easy to enjoy a morning run or an evening stroll under the artificial lighting.

Please keep in mind that the splash pad operates seasonally and is limited to the summer months. For planning large events and booking picnic pavilions, it is recommended to check the information on the City of Wenatchee's official website in advance.

Exploring the area around Rotary Park will give you a better feel for the Washington State atmosphere and introduce you to the region's historical heritage. Nearby, you'll find both architectural landmarks and cozy spots to grab a bite after your walk.