Location: 4965 South Second Street, Springfield
Located at the corner of S. Second Street and Southwind Road in Springfield. Accessible from I-55 South on Exit 90 at Toronto Road.
One of the most compelling features of Southwind Park is its complete accesibility for all ages and abilities with special emphasis and attention given to those with physical and cognitive disabilities. It provides a new dimension of inclusion for all people “without boundaries” in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Fishing Piers
Three completely accessible fishing piers on the lake allow anglers to try their luck at catching bluegill, bass and catfish.
Gazebo
The gazebo offers a panoramic view of the lake and Erin’s Pavilion, all surrounded by beautiful native landscaping. It is an area for tranquil reflection and quiet conversation.
Playground
One of the city’s largest playgrounds is barrier-free and includes accessible swings and outdoor musical instruments. For safety and comfort, there is pour-in play surface.
Picnic Shelters
Five picnic shelters, equipped with ceiling fans and electric outlets, are scattered throughout the park. A large familiy picnic shelter is located near the great lawn and sports courts.
Sports Courts
Bocce ball, horseshoe pits and shuffleboard courts offer group fun at the park. Individual and league play is available.
The Great Lawn
This 8-acre grassy area is ideal for kite flying, Frisbee and just hanging out with friends and family.
Sensory Gardens
One unique feature of Southwind Park is its five sensory gardens. The Enabling Garden has raised planters for seated gardening. The Tranquility Garden, for persons with Alzheimer’s or dementia, has seating areas and a grove of white birches. The Fragrant Garden features a waterfall and sensory plants in easy reach. The Children’s Garden includes a vegetable garden, native plant area, bird attracting garden and many different paths and whimsical items. The Butterfly Garden has interpretive signage, seating and a water feature.
Urban Trail & Navigation System
Navigating the park is easy with a 2 1/2 mile concrete trail that has built-in directional guides and a color-coded wayfinding system for individuals with cognitive disabilities.
Southwind Park Tram
The park’s exclusively designed tram is accessible and carries up to 8 people, providing either a complete tour or a ride to a specific park location.
Erin’s Pavilion, the Park District’s newest addition, opened its doors in May of 2010 as a fully accessible multi-use facility. . Erin’s Pavilion is a 15,000 square foot indoor building which facilitates recreational, interpretive and educational programs, services and special events.
Erin’s Hours: The sales and service office is open Monday – Friday from 9a – 5p. We have Lobby Hours on Saturday from 9a – 3p and Sunday from 9a – 12p. We are open for private rental evenings and weekends by appointment. Please feel free to contact our sales representatives to find out more about Erin’s Pavilion premiere rental facility and meeting center.
Erin’s Pavilion
4965 S. Second St.
(217) 585-2941| (217) 529-5668 fax M-F 9a – 5p
www.springfieldparkdistricts.org
“This is a great park to go to when it has recently rained as the “floor” under the playground is pretty dry and there isn’t any mud.” ~Jen F.
“Large playground and play fountain!” ~Melissa S.
