Charles Young Park and Community Center 🇺🇸

Located in the historic East End neighborhood of Lexington, Kentucky, the Charles Young Park and Community Center offers a meaningful destination rich in local history and outdoor recreation. Purchased by the city in 1930 and opened during the Jim Crow era, it was the second public park made available to Lexington's Black residents. Today, the park and its 1935 Colonial Revival community center are listed on the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of their vital contributions to African American history.

When you visit, you will find modern outdoor amenities paired with deep historic roots named in honor of distinguished U.S. Army officer Charles Young. You can explore the outdoor basketball courts—updated in 2017 with sponsorship from professional basketball player Julius Randle—or cool off at the Splash! splash pad, which features elements themed around Charles Young’s life and achievements.

The community center itself hosts various events for all ages throughout the year. The park also serves as a convenient trailhead. Situated at the eastern end of two major mixed-use paths, you can easily connect to downtown Lexington via the Town Branch Commons trail or travel along the 12-mile Legacy Trail starting from the adjacent Isaac Murphy Memorial Art Garden.

What to see at Charles Young Park and Community Center

• Historic 1935 Colonial Revival community center listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• Outdoor basketball courts sponsored by professional basketball player Julius Randle
• Splash! splash pad themed around the life and achievements of Charles Young
• Direct connection to the 12-mile Legacy Trail originating at the adjacent Isaac Murphy Memorial Art Garden
• Trail connection to downtown Lexington via the Town Branch Commons trail

Visiting tips

Bring a bicycle or walking shoes to explore the connected mixed-use trails that lead downtown or along the 12-mile route toward the Kentucky Horse Park.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Warm weather months

How to get there & what’s nearby

Charles Young Park and Community Center is easy to reach on Lexington’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Douglass Park and Lexington Opera House. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Lexington travel guide.