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The Harvey Ball Conservation Area, also known as Ball Property is a City park consisting only of a nature trail. This conservation area is used as a wildlife sanctuary.

Located along the Blackstone River and Broad Meadow Brook Trail, this area is known as the "Smiley Face" Trail. The slogan for this park is "Take only Pictures, Leave only Smiles".

This is a cooperative conservation project between The City of Worcester, Massachusetts Audubon Society and the Greater Worcester Land Trust.

Take a Hike

Trail Sign/Marker for the Smiley Face Trail

The hiking trail and surrounding land are named in honor of the late Harvey Ball - a Worcester native who invented and designed the iconic yellow "smiley face." Enjoy a relaxing 0.7 mile hike through the property and take in all of the wonderful surroundings and nature while getting some exercise!

Also Check Out

View some of the other parks in the City. Get out and explore!

Grant Square Green and Brown Playground Set

Grant Square

District: 2

Grant Square is located in the Green Hill neighborhood of Worcester. The park property was acquired in two sections, but after the larger piece was acquired, the two were combined into a single tract for park use. In 2015, the city installed a new playground, a new basketball court and community garden beds.
Cascades Park Waterfall

Cascades Park

District: 5

Named for the cascading waterfall visible from Cataract Street, Cascades Park abuts a number of other conservation areas and parks. This park has a number of hiking and nature trails which consist of interesting geographic features, most notably, the waterfall which leads into Cook Pond.
Betty Price Blue and Green Playground Set

Betty Price Playground

District: 2

This playground is named after the late Elizabeth "Betty" Price, a woman who led the way for African American women in Worcester. The property consists of two parcels: one initially acquired from Prospect House, Inc. in 1968 and a second parcel acquired by the City in 2000.

Quick Facts

Location: 59 Dane Avenue - Map

District: 3

Size: 15.9 acres

Parking Lot(s): No

Features:

  • Nature Trail(s)

Know Before You Go

Contact Information

Address

Parks & Recreation
50 Officer Manny Familia Way
Worcester, MA 01605

Contact

Phone: 508-799-1190
Fax: 508-799-1293
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Hours

Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.