Skip to main content

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!

Image
Shore Park Sandy Swimming Area with Lifeguard Tower

Shore Park

District: 1

Located on Shore Drive, this park was renovated with a new bathhouse in the Spring of 2018. This park features a large beach on the north end of Indian Lake, as well as picnic areas. Beach-goers will find a new bathhouse, including restrooms, a first-aid room and a lifeguard room.
Image
Providence Street Playground Set

Providence Street Playground

District: 3

The Providence Street Playground has been a city park since 2010. It features a new playground, which is split into two parts. One side is for younger kids, while the other is geared toward older kids. It also contains Glodis Field, a multipurpose field named after the late State Rep. William J. Glodis.
Image
University (Crystal) Park Pond with Trees Around

University (Crystal) Park

District: 4

University Park is located in both a residential neighborhood and directly adjacent to a college campus. In the middle of the park is Crystal Pond, formerly used for swimming and ice skating. Today, activities on the Pond are limited to occasional paddle boating or toy boat races.

Quick Facts

Location: 59 Dane Avenue - Map

District: 3

Size: 15.9 acres

Parking Lot(s): No

Features:

  • Nature Trail(s)

Contact Information

Address

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

Contact

Phone: 508-799-1190
Fax: 508-799-1293
parks@worcesterma.gov
Find Us On Facebook  Follow Us On X  YouTube Icon

Hours

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