Things to know about Byrd Park in Richmond, Virginia

William Byrd ParkPhoto byByrd Park Screenshot

Byrd Park, also known as William Byrd Park, was named after William Byrd II, whose family owned much of the area when Richmond was founded in 1737.

It is a public park in the West End at 600 South Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia 23220, north of the James River and adjacent to Maymont. The 287-acre park is one of the city's most popular. It comprises a mile-long trail with exercise stops, monuments, and an amphitheater.

The park includes tennis courts, Little League baseball fields, and a children's playground. The historic roundhouse and Poplar Vale Cemetery are also located in the park.

The lakes

Visitors can rent pedal boats to be used in the three small lakes. Swan Lake has waterfowl, as the name implies.

Swan LakePhoto byYelp Screenshot

• Shields Lake is the southernmost of the park's three lakes.
• Boat Lake, also called Fountain Lake, has a lighted fountain at its center.

Fountain LakePhoto byFacebook Screenshot

The park is open from sunrise to sunset except for the tennis complex.

The park was listed in 2016 on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.