Blanchard Park050

Offering one of the most beautiful walking and biking trails in Orlando, Blanchard Park is a unique natural getaway just minutes from the high-paced downtown Orlando area.

The paved 7.9-mile Little Econ Greenway Trail and The Little Econlockhatchee River run through Blanchard Park. The trail - for biking, hiking, skateboarding, or just plain meandering - is wide enough to allow families to walk its path without having to grab kids every time a bike pedals by. The scenic riverbanks also offer a great place to picnic under the trees, though traditional picnic tables are also available in the park. Fishing is also allowed off the banks.

Two larger pavilions are available to rent and are popular locations for birthday parties and special events. The kids playground is completely shaded by a fabric canopy and features multiple slides and activities for different age ranges. Smaller slides are perfect for pre-schoolers, and the rubbery flooring makes spills off of the equipment a little easier to handle. Swings are located a short walk from the playground, near the parking area.

The sand volleyball and basketball courts are also extremely popular, with pick-up games happening almost every day of the week. Additional soccer and multi-purpose fields offer plenty of room for kick ball, kite flying, and other activities.

Ther park also offers free bike rentals for visitors 17 and older, so parents who don't have their own wheels can ride along with the kids. Bikes available for check-out through the office every day from 9am to 4pm in winter, and 9am to 6pm in summer. You must have a state-issued driver's license or ID to check out a bike, and adults cannot check out a bike for a child. Bring your own helmets.

The Blanchard Park River Rangers offers kids three to 12 a chance to learn about wildlife, the environment, and conservation while enjoying great outdoor activities. Pre-registration is required.

Year-round environmental education and athletic programs are also available. The Blanchard Park YMCA Family Center is also on site.