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
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.
Image
City Hall Common Walkways Lined with Trees

City Hall Common

District: 2

City Hall sits on the western end of the Common and is the central hub for downtown Worcester. The Common provides vital open space in the downtown area. The park includes an amphitheater, monuments and memorials and a skating rink in the winter, also known as the Oval in the summer.
Image
Blue and Green Bailey-Prouty Playground Set

Bailey-Prouty Playground

District: 5

Bailey-Prouty Playground is located on the very western edge of Worcester, almost on the Paxton/Leicester line. This park features a baseball diamond and a playground. The playground includes a slide, climbing structures, and more! This park is home of John W. Spillane Memorial Field.

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.