Twenty parks provide Bloomington with 1,902 acres for picnicking and recreation purposes, including three public swimming pools, baseball and softball diamonds, play areas, five public golf courses and an ice/roller skating rink.

For complete information about all of the places mentioned here and dozens of other places, call, write, or visit the Visitors Center, 2855 N. Walnut, 334-8900, toll-free 1-800-800-0037. Get information there or have them send it to you.

They can also provide you with maps to the local caves, which are absolutely invaluable to some good spelunking here in the area. Also, contact one of the local speleological societies (caving groups) for more information about local caves.

Bryan Park

Bryan Park is a park south of campus, popular with both students and local residents. Within the park you'll find: tennis courts, basketball courts, ball diamonds, a 0.8-mile track around the edge, and a swimming pool with waterslide. Local bands and the Bloomington Orchestra occasionally play outside at the park. There are fields for frisbee, a few pavilions, restroom facilities, horseshoe pits, and an exercise area. It's a fine park. Oh, and don't forget the sand volleyball court.

Bryan Park is located east of Henderson St. and west of Woodlawn, north of Hillside and south of Park, which is about six blocks south of 3rd St.

Cascades Park and Golf Course

Cascades Golf Course is a beautiful 18-hole golf course located on the north side of Bloomington. It boasts tight fairways, well manicured greens and a driving range. The clubhouse features a snackbar, locker rooms, pro shop, club storage area, and a hall which may be rented for receptions, reunions, dinners and meetings. Club rentals, electric and pull carts, are also available. Starting times are necessary during peak times - call 349-3764 for details.

Winslow Park

Winslow Park is a large park on the south side of Bloomington offering facilites for all kinds of sports. Along with playgrounds, trails, and fields, there are facilities there for baseball, softball, basketball, tennis, and probably more.

Winslow Park is on the north side of Winslow Rd., which you can reach by going south on Walnut, Henderson, or High St.

Third Street Park

A tiny park with a fountain, some benches, and a stage, it's located just south of 3rd Street between Lincoln and Washington Avenues. It's just south of the downtown Post Office.