Martin Park Nature Center(39)
- Jonathan Elmore
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
There are a lot of people that need to get into nature a little bit in their lives. "But, Jonathan, I live in the city and can't get to a nature preserve." Well, have I got a treat for you! The Martin Park Nature Center has two and a half miles of walking trails that wind through woods, along waterways, and through native grassy areas. I've walked it a couple of times and it isn't difficult, but you put some work in. And what better way to get your steps in than being in the woods?
Located on the south side of the Kilpatrick turnpike between MacArthur and Meridan, Martin Park is a safe place to take the whole family. If you don't want to walk the full 2 1/2, there are turn arounds all throughout the park where you can either head back to your car or stop in the nature center. The great little center has displays of native flora and fauna, some live animals like snakes and turtles, and even an bin where you can feel bones, snake skins, turtles shells and more. I was thrill to see everything, but I was in there while a few young boys were looking around with their moms and they were going nuts. "Look at this!" "Ooh, mom, look over here at this snake! He moved!" It was awesome.
Even though you can faintly here the hum of traffic from the turnpike, you're still immersed in nature. You can still lose your sense of the city as you wander around the paths or sit by the water. There's something life enriching to be able to be in nature. I'm not Henry David Thoreau. I don't need to live in the woods away from everyone. But it sure is nice to get away from the maddening crowds now and then. And what better place than somewhere you don't have to travel a long way. You can stop by the park after work and decompress from the day. Go home with a little more serenity than usual. It's worth the tiny bit of extra time. You can also look on their website for cool event that they host at the nature center. Get out of the house. Get your family out of the house. Go see nature. You'll be better for it!
5000 W. Memorial Rd
405-297-1429
Jonathan Elmore ©2025
