The Secret Park: Reid Park

Just past the underpass that separates my neighbourhood, Hintonburg, from Civic Hospital, is Reid Park. Of the four parks nearest to my house: Parkdale Park, Hintonburg Park, Fairmont Park and Reid Park, this is the one we visit the least.

The park is named after a Scottish settler from the 19th century

It was under construction last year, but the real reason we haven't visited often is its location. It's tucked away in this unloved, awkward corner literally right next to the Queensway, the highway that runs right smack through the middle of Ottawa. The noise from the highway is also quite noticeable there because the sound of cars zooming by rises above the nearby sound barriers.

So we always forget about it.

It's a bit of a shame really because whoever re-built the park did a pretty decent job.There's a nice playground, wading pool and a basketball court. It's also next to a lawn bowling court, which is one of those living artifacts that always bring a bemused smile to my face.

Maybe now that a friend lives in the area I'll visit it more often. In any case, keep on truckin' lil mystery park!