Things to know about Bryan Park in Richmond, Virginia

Bryan ParkPhoto byFriends of Bryan Park Screenshot

Joseph Bryan Park, also known as Bryan Park, is a 262-acre public park in Richmond’s Northside. It is located just north of the intersection of I-64 and I-95. The main entrance is on Hermitage Road between the I-95 overpass and Lakeside Avenue.

Massive GatePhoto byFriends of Bryan Park Screenshot

Entrance to the park

The entrance to the park is easily recognized by a massive granite gate erected by the city to honor the Bryan Family, who gave the park to Richmond in 1910. Adjacent to the gate are the Keepers House, the Park headquarters, and a refurbished greenhouse.

According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, the City of Richmond owns and operates two adjacent ponds, approximately six acres each. The ponds are stocked annually with channel catfish, reproducing largemouth bass, bluegill, and pumpkinseed sunfish.

Pond at Bryan ParkPhoto byBryan Park Screenshot

The park, which used to be a rural farm, has a rich history and is very picturesque, particularly during the spring when flowers are in bloom. Picnic tables and benches are throughout the park. The park has handicap facilities.

Center of the park

The center of the park is a raised plateau that includes:

• 5 soccer fields
• an 18-hole disc golf course
• 2 tennis courts
• 4 pickleball courts
• a large playground
• two picnic shelters

Other parts of the park

The southeastern part of Bryan Park contains its famous 17-acre Azalea Gardens and an attractive fountain pond. The western portion of the park is wooded, with a Nature Center and native plant and pollinator garden in its Nature Preserve.

Parking lots

There are three main parking lots in Bryan Park. Most back roads are closed to vehicular traffic to provide for traffic-free walking, running, and bike riding. There are a few trails throughout the woods, west of Jordans’ Branch Stream, and the Nature Center area, with its native plants and wildlife habitat.

Bryan Paark Highway MarkerPhoto byBryan Park Screenshot

The park opens at sunrise and closes at dusk. Dogs are allowed in the park, and all pets must be on leashes. However, dogs are not allowed in the Azalea Gardens.