Winters Park & Playground, South Side Slopes: 601 Yard Way
Billy Buck Hill in the South Side Slopes gets its name from a long-ago local goat who would roam the neighborhood’s Alpine-like hillsides (and if you think I’m exaggerating the steepness, take a walk up Yard Way). Because of these conditions, Winters Park is terraced between three streets: St. Paul, Shamokin, and Huron. If you do not live in the neighborhood and are driving, park on St. Paul, because the other two streets are narrow, and parking chairs are plentiful.
Winters might be tucked away, but it is known and active. Whether it’s a new gate, a DIY water fountain for pups, or supplies to redd up, it’s clear this rare square of level ground is valued and enjoyed.
The playground is down the Yard Way city steps on Huron. While some of the equipment is officially gated off because the ancient ground cover poses a tripping/liability hazard, neighborhood kids frequently use the basketball court in the afternoon and evenings. As I wander around, I see a faded chalk-written message in a child’s handwriting about keeping the ball in the park for all to use. ❤️ This young resident knows exactly what it takes to be a true GOAT.
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