Parks are Nature Playgrounds for Grownups
One way to explore a new city is to visit the green spaces. The plan for me on day #5 of my grownup holiday is to go wild for nature in city parks.
Even though this is a grown-up holiday, I can’t resist playgrounds. Both adults and kids can play in this one with a running track and play equipment. The warm sun invited lounging on plenty of green space, as well as kicking a ball back and forth, and playing catch with a frisbee. Trees, open areas, and several wooden structures invited many people to play. I tried out some of them and played too.
The majestic trees turned this block into a welcome urban-nature spot. It was pleasant to walk and then sit. Traffic zipped by on the streets but it was still a peaceful place. Birds darted between the trees and down to the ground to snatch crumbs left over from people who ate their lunch on the the benches. The sun warmed faces as well plants. I lingered there enjoying the space and soaking up the nature.
Many old colonial houses had inner courtyards but for most I could only catch glimpses as I walked the cobblestone streets and tiled sidewalks.
This one was tucked behind a restaurant converted from a two-hundred year old residence. Earlier generations certainly had food gardens and , where weather permitted, also had spaces for being outside. Nature was incorporated right into their homes and I hope they didn’t take it for granted as we so often do. I happily ordered a tea and sticky pastry along with the nature treat.
Every city will have some parks and green spaces. Each one will have it’s own character and unique features, some becoming well known around the world. Smaller centers will have spots too, often named after local people or clubs. Including parks is so important with such high numbers of people now living in urban areas. Do you go wild for nature in the parks where you live?