Most folks opt to engage in some type of outdoor recreation when visiting a local park; whether that means going for a hike or stroll, renting a pedal boat, casting a fishing line, or birding — that’s up to each individual. But parks are for everyone, including those who typically eschew more vigorous forms of recreation. This universal accessibility is well-illustrated at the various Louisville Metro Parks, which boast ADA-friendly footpaths, lots of benches and picnic shelters, and even tables for one of life’s greatest intellectual pursuits: chess! At Shawnee Park, a particularly lovely Louisville Metro Park, guests can sit pond-side and enjoy a rousing game of chess with a formidable opponent of their choice, making for a wonderful and low-key afternoon of fun and games in Kentucky!

Shawnee Park is one of the most beguiling of all the Louisville Metro Parks. It was designed by the legendary Frederick Law Olmsted, who had a hand in 18 of the city's 123 public parks. Hailed as the "Father of Landscape Architecture," Olmsted is perhaps best-known as part of the duo responsible for Central Park, so his connection to the Bluegrass is something to be celebrated.
Chuck Rose/Google Local
And he is, here in Louisville, where, in addition to Shawnee Park being listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it's also one of the city's most beloved natural areas.
Jonathan Mhyre/Google Local
This Louisville Metro Park is a nearly 300-acre urban oasis that's an accessible and amazing place for year-round recreation. From boating and fishing in the summer...
Crystal McGruder/Google Local
...to admiring fall foliage in the autumn...
Tascha Sodan/Google Local

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...to birding in the winter and spring, there's a lot to love about Shawnee Park.
Jonathan Mhyre/Google Local
In 2021, the Louisville Olmstead Parks Conservancy unveiled their latest addition to Shawnee Park: chess tables!
Louisville Olmsted Parks Conservancy/Facebook
This beautiful corner of Shawnee Park had gotten a lot of love in recent years, with a restored Lily Pond and new vegetative floating islands.
Louisville Olmsted Parks Conservancy/Facebook
The addition of the chess tables was the cherry on top, transforming Shawnee Park into an even more accessible and amazing destination in Kentucky.
Louisville Olmsted Parks Conservancy/Facebook
Checkmate!

Have you visited this Louisville Metro Park before? Shawnee Park really is a lovely little urban oasis, made even more enchanting with its outdoor chess tables!

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