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Des Moines, Iowa
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Spanning over 1,500 acres, Water Works Park is among the largest urban parks in the country, offering vast green spaces and numerous recreational opportunities.
The park hosts the annual "515 Alive Music Festival," which attracts music enthusiasts from across the region.
The park is named after the Des Moines Water Works, which uses the park's land for water filtration and distribution, serving over 500,000 residents.
The park is a popular spot for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds recorded, including bald eagles and great blue herons.
The Arie den Boer Arboretum, located within the park, is one of the world's largest collections of crabapple trees, featuring over 1,200 varieties.
The Raccoon River Pedestrian Bridge, completed in 2020, connects Water Works Park to Gray's Lake Park, enhancing accessibility and recreational options.
The park features extensive bike trails that connect to the larger Central Iowa Trail Network, making it a favorite among local cyclists.
The park is involved in several sustainability projects, including native prairie restoration and stormwater management efforts.
