Easily the largest park in the area, Neahwa Park has a lot to offer for people from all walks of life. Anyone can find something to do here, whether they are into sports, a leisurely walk, a fun place to bring their kids in the warmer months or simply wish to spend a day in the park to read, there’s something for everyone here. Even historians can find pleasure here, from the infamous Red Caboose to the memorial walking trail, right down to their own version of Lady Liberty herself, there’s always something to see and enjoy!
Photo by Amanda T. Fox
Sports & Recreation
Love to play sports? There’s no shortage of places to play! Not only are there five baseball fields and several soccer fields available for anyone looking to play, but there’s also tennis courts, as well as two basketball and volleyball courts as well! Even skaters can get in on the fun with the recently installed skate park, open for use for bikers, skateboarders, and skaters alike. For added fun, in the spring and summer, be sure to catch the Oneonta Outlaws semi-pro baseball games at the historic Damaschke Field and enjoy a snack from the snack bar while sitting in the newly remodeled stadium!
Photo by Amanda T. Fox
Historical Sites
There’s plenty to see for historians in Neahwa Park as well! Stroll down the Veteran’s Memorial Walkway to see the memorials throughout the center of the park or simply sit on one of the benches along the path for a lovely view of Hodges Pond and in the spring, watch as the geese come home. Just at the end of the path, in the center of the park in a large display case is the Little Red Caboose, built in 1883 in the hopes of promoting equal rights for the railway workers. Rumor has it that the impact of this iconic caboose was so significant, even the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC tried to put in a bid just to have it displayed in their museum.
Photo by Amanda T. Fox
Walking Trails
Walk the Mill Race Trail along the outskirts for a fully immersive experience in the nature alongside Mill Race, a stream that branches off from the infamous Susquehanna River that runs through the center of town. Running from one entrance to the other, this trail creates an ambiance that will make it feel as though the city has melted away to make way for a walk in the woods. Not only that, but it ends just before the sidewalk begins, allowing walkers to continue through Catella Park and around the expansive fields found beyond the overpass for a full walkthrough of the park.
Photo by Amanda T. Fox
Dog Parks
Not only is there plenty to do for humans, dogs can come and have their fun too! Separated into small and big dog areas, Neahwa Park has one of the biggest dog parks in the city, with benches for owners to sit and relax while their pup goes to play. Play fetch or simply let the pups roam as they enjoy the enclosed area, safe and sound while you get to enjoy some time in nature, but don’t forget to pick up any mess they may leave behind before you leave too!
Photo by Amanda T. Fox
Pavilions for Events
Need to find a place for those crazy summer parties? Have a graduate that needs a nice, open area to celebrate? Neahwa Park has you covered! With their impressive pavilions throughout the park and grills at the ready, all that’s required is to bring in the food and request it for use through the city! Not only that, but many of the pavilions are placed close to the expansive playground, so even the little ones get to play along!
Photo by Amanda T. Fox
Playground
Speaking of playgrounds, Neahwa Park has one of the best ones around. With a playset geared towards toddlers and a larger one for the older kiddos, there’s something for kids of all ages here at the park! Swing on the swings just a little way away from the playground or bring a basketball for some one-on-one on the courts just behind. Or, for those lowkey afternoons, enjoy an afternoon sitting on the benches beneath the trees and watch as they play on the slides and climb the various options for them to enjoy!
No matter who comes to Neahwa Park, anyone can find plenty to do. From playing on the sports fields and courts to enjoying the sunshine with a good book, there’s always something going on in Neahwa Park for anyone who ventures inside. Whether someone is immersed in the historical sites while strolling the memorial walkway, or simply looking for a place for their fur babies to roam, don’t miss out on visiting the park while visiting Oneonta, NY!
Amanda T. Fox 
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