July 10, 2020
Golf
Use New Canaan Parks and Clubs to Stay Active
New Canaan is blessed with an amazing collection of parks, green spaces and recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
Getting outside in the era of COVID-19 may be more important than ever as people have been staying at home, working from home, or using caution when they go to places where others may congregate. For people who are older, especially anyone above 60 years of age, taking advantage of the community’s open spaces during the summer may be a welcome break from being indoors.
All of New Canaan parks and local social clubs have something going on. Whether that’s improvements or events, local residents should take advantage of the nice weather and get outside. Here’s a rundown of what’s happening at many of the parks and clubs.
The crown jewel of New Canaan’s parks is clearly Waveny Park. Summer concerts will continue through the end of August. This fall, the pond area below the park’s rose garden will get a facelift as excess brush will be cleared and a new dock will be built.
At Mead Park, there are improvements galore. The children’s area is getting a new playground; a bluestone plaza with seating is being added to the colonnade area; and the area around a recently demolished garage is being improved. Weather permitting, the Apple Cart concession area will remain open into October.
Irwin Park, located only a quarter-mile north of downtown, has 36 acres of iconic architecture, paths and trails, and beautiful fields for residents to enjoy.
People who visit the Ed Dixon Memorial Park adjacent to Hoyt Street are familiar with the small playground and play structure.
Although the New Canaan Nature Center is owned by the town, it’s still a part of the community’s park system. Children and adults alike enjoy the year-round wildlife and nature programs, and there’s acres of trails and paths to explore. The visitor center remains closed because of COVID-19 concerns.
Kiwanis Park added new shade umbrellas to its beach area and opened a new play structure for children. The park will continue to host its annual Christmas tree sale in December.
A major renovation project continues at the Country Club of New Canaan. The Clubhouse, pool house and the area surrounding the practice putting green are being revamped. The club continues to offer squash, paddle, tennis, swimming, and, of course, golf.
Residents interested in the New Canaan Field Club can take advantage of open houses offered in January and March to get a vibe on the club. New memberships are available.
The largest swimming pool in Fairfield County can be found at the Lake Club, a 15-acre private swim and tennis club. Five new paddle/pickle ball courts are available for year-round use. The club is known for its social environment and is a perfect place for new residents to New Canaan to meet new friends.
If skating is your prefered activity, then the Winter Club is your destination. The club, located on Frogtown Road across the street from Country School, offers a variety of skating programs.
This is a sample of the recreational opportunities available in the community. It’s a good idea to check websites for updated information concerning closures or adjusted hours mandated by the COVID-19 health situation.
Staying active and staying fit at any age is a good idea, just stay safe while you do it. Enjoy the outdoors this summer!