Largo Central Park in Largo, FL

Largo Central Park is a beautiful 70 acre park, with a playground, miniature train, Military Court of Honor, and cultural center. Its paths wind through shady oaks, magnolias, blooming shrubs, a fountain, and well-maintained grassy areas. Pavillons and benches are scattered throughout the park for planned gatherings or a place to relax.

There are three different parking areas close to the park. The main parking is the first turn off of Central Park Drive. The second is close to the Cultural Center, and the third is to the west of the Cultural Center and behind the playground area.The picture is taken off the second parking area.

The paths wind through the outer edge of the park, with trees and shrubs as a buffer between the park and the streets (Largo Central Park is on the corner of East Bay Drive and Seminole Avenue). One path goes toward the right, or north side of the park, and is lined by oak, bottlebrush, and magnolia trees. You'll find the Military Court of Honor, the waterfountain, statues, and a path leading out toward the Clock Tower. The left side path leads toward the Cultural Center, the playground, restrooms, and the train.

The inside of the park is a wide expanse of open grass and perfect for playing catch, football, frisbee, and other fun games. I've often seen kids playing football in one area, baseball practice in the middle, and frisbee game by a man and his dog. Couples set out blankets to soak up the sun or watch smaller children run and jump nearby.

Largo Central Park is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily

Largo Central Park is also home to Largo Central Railroad. The train runs the first full weekend of every month. If you get a chance, mark and calendar and go for a ride. It's a lot of fun and a great way to see the rest of the beautiful park.

It is operated by The Largo Central Railroad Club volunteers. Adults and children are welcome. There is no fee, though donations are greatly appreciated and help maintain the trains. The trains are also available for private parties.

The trains run through the northwest part of the park. You'll see the rest of the beautiful grounds, go through a tunnel, and if you're lucky, you'll see rabbits hiding in shrubs and butterflies flitting by flowering bushes.

The City of Largo honors all our military men and women in this courtyard. Plaques line the wall to remind visitors of the importance of our armed forces. In memoriam, servicemen's names adorn the center bricks.

Special ceremonies, such as on Memorial Day, are held in the courtyard. The Military Court of Honor is on the north side of the park, close to the fountain and pond. Statues of two little kids raising a flag can be seen on the outer wall.