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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!

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View of Indian Lake from the Sandy Shore

Indian Lake Beach

District: 1

Indian Lake Beach is located on the eastern bank of Indian Lake, once known as North Pond. Although it has an interesting past, today, activities on Indian Lake include boating (motorized and non-motorized), swimming and fishing.
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Tacoma Street Playground Basketball Court

Tacoma Street Playground

District: 1

The Tacoma Street Playground is an almost 19-acre park located just north of the Great Brook Valley Housing Complex. It is just west of the Poor Farm Brook, close to the West Boylston line. The Tacoma Street Playground features a playground, two basketball courts and a picnic area.
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Dodge Park Gazebo and Picnic Tables

Dodge Park

District: 2

Dodge Park is a quaint 9 acre park located to the east of Indian Lake. Thomas Dodge donated the land to establish Dodge Park in 1889. In 1897, a rustic stone bridge was built over what was Arthur Spring at the time. Today, Dodge Park has a gazebo, a picnic area and nature trails to enjoy!

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
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Hours

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