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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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Fairmount Park Green and Tan Playground Set with Benches

Fairmount Park

District: 2

Fairmount Park is located atop Poet Laureate Hill off of Grove Street. It has a playground, half basketball court and a picnic area. This park also features amazing views of downtown Worcester. In addition, Fairmount Park has an amphitheater and occasionally hosts events.
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Oread Castle Playground Set

Oread Castle Park

District: 4

Oread Castle Park is a 3-acre park located in the Main South neighborhood. Before this was a City park, it was Oread Collegiate Institute, also known as "The Castle". It recently had a massive renovation and features basketball courts, futsal court overlay, playground, picnic tables and nature trails.
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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.

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
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Hours

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