Washington Park is a park in Springfield, Illinois, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located at 1400 Williams Boulevard, the park features walking trails, a botanical garden, large duck pond, rose garden, carillon, and carillon concerts. The park was purchased for city use in 1900, and construction began in 1901. Substantial drainage and dredging were required to turn the wetland portions of the future park into ponds and grassy space. Washington Park is operated by the Springfield Park District.Components of parkWashington Park Botanical GardenThe botanical garden includes a conservatory and botanical garden. It is open daily during the afternoons; admission is free.The garden consists of outdoor plantings, a greenhouse (9,000 square feet), and a conservatory. In all it contains over 1200 species, including over 150 species of tropical plants. Outdoor gardens include a cactus garden, iris garden, rock garden, and a rose garden (5,000 plants).Thomas Rees Memorial CarillonThe carillon, operated by the Springfield Park District, contains 67 bells built by Petit & Fritsen. Concerts are held year round every Sunday and on Wednesday evenings during summer months. Tower tours are available daily.
