Discover Alberni Episode 20 - Gyro Park

Tucked away by the 10th Avenue Dip is a quiet park fitted with several amenities. Gyro Recreation Park contains several tennis courts, a pickleball court, a playground, a lacrosse pen, basketball hoops, a softball field, the Gyro Youth Centre, Industrial Heritage Centre, and the Alberni Valley Curling Club. Visitors may also notice an old sprinkler pool - a reminder of its history. Generations ago, this park even had an outdoor swimming pool but has seen major changes over the years to accommodate different needs.

Today, it is well equipped with features many families enjoy. Located between 7th and 9th Avenue, it is also fairly easy to find due to its large size and proximity to both 10th Avenue and Argyle Street. 

The playground is surrounded by plenty of green space. Some parts have trees and seating under the shade, while other parts of the field have nothing but green grass and sunshine. The playground has also been updated with new structures and soft padding. There are several benches around the perimeter of the playground, perfect for parents to monitor their kids having fun. 

Adjacent to the playground is a single pickleball court and five tennis courts. This is the place to be if you want to practice your serve! A tall fence surrounds the courts so there are no worries about stray balls interfering with the playground. 

A little farther from the playground you will find the lacrosse pen, basketball hoops, and softball field. The lacrosse area is usually locked, so contact the city ahead of time if you are interested in using it. Often you can find exciting softball games or a few friends shooting some hoops. Gyro Park offers quite a variety of fun options to explore. 

The Gyro Youth Centre is a medium-sized building available for rental. Sometimes it is the host of smaller events and programs, such as Nights Alive - a program with free drop-in recreational activities for youth. 

Gyro Park even has activities when the snow blankets the park. The Alberni Valley Curling Club has its headquarters right next door, along with the Industrial Heritage Centre for learning local history. This area is a recreational hub, making it a very desirable place to visit! 

Families enjoy this park for its wide-open spaces, options of things to do, and convenient location. Pack an afternoon picnic at the park, then go see a movie at Landmark Cinemas just a block away. Or let the kids burn out some energy at the playground and then sit in on a softball game. There are so many options for things to do at Gyro Recreation Park!