Leo Donovan Golf Course

Decent-sized park with plenty of green space and picnic tables, making it perfect for walking dogs or just enjoying the outdoors. There are several small ponds within the park where catch-and-release fishing is encouraged, though the size of the ponds and contents within might pander to a casual audience or young children more than serious hobbyists. The layout of the park is neat in that it used to be a golf course, and the on-site observatory is a unique feature to see. The park is lacking several amenities I'd expect from a public park, such as bathrooms and maintained, paved walking paths.…

Donovan Park is such a beautiful spot in Peoria—wide open fields, tall trees, and the prettiest golden hour light. 🌅 It’s one of those places that feels peaceful just to walk through, but it’s also such a perfect backdrop for photos. As a photographer, I love how natural and timeless it feels here. Whether you’re taking a stroll, having a picnic, or capturing a few memories, it’s definitely a favorite. 🌿 @AndreaCheaPhotography

We are here sometimes twice a week. Great spot for picnics, just to let our kids roam... The sand pit by Cyd's is awesome, too. The paths are gorgeous and peaceful to walk down. There's plenty of shade and also so much open space. So far, this is our favorite park in the area.

This is a nice park in the middle of the city. Plenty of green space to walk or run. There are various sculptures throughout the park. The park is also good for cross country running. Donovan also is an accredited Level 1 Arboretum. Northmoor Observatory is also located on the grounds. In the winter people use the park for cross country skiing or snow shoeing.

This is no longer a golf course. Evidently, the park district has converted it to more of a multipurpose park with lots of grassy trails meandering through grassy prairie (not sure if it's maintained as native) new maple trees groves, a pond, and sculptures. Cyds is located here now, and the Northmore observatory is open on Saturdays.

Beautiful park in Central Peoria- a former golf course repurposed into prairie paths, many native trees and flowers, ponds with Geese, tree groves where you can find owls and deer etc. Kids enjoy one of the former sandpits now filled with trucks. Check out CxT coffee, the Noshery, Cyds in Park or restaurants in junction city close by. If you’re visiting Peoria, Grandview Drive is a short drive or bike ride away and a must-do.

Peaceful and absolutely beautiful park with trees, fields, grass, trails. Ample parking. Dogs welcome on a leash. See snow pictures update! Update Fall 2024 new sculpture installation!

Beautiful green space! Just love how it made me feel like I had gotten away from the city while still in the city! I will be visiting again soon!

Make-a-wish walk for the cure event was held here. We went to help drive this organization mission forward to not only grant wishes but help support the families and all involved. Some of the make-a-wish children were there and it was exciting to talk with them and have them explain what their wish was and what their favorite parts were and so on. Hearing the parents story was enlightening and heart breaking at the same time.

This is a great place to take our dogs to walk. Almost every time we go, we see a deer or two, and plenty of bunnies. Great place to enjoy nature and have some quiet time. We even introduced one of our grand dogs to the park this last Friday.

A great place for walking the dog. Mowed paths and fields among meadows and trees in this reclaimed former golf course. Saw a golden eagle and eastern bluebird here.

Nice open space for walks or hiking. The true gem is Cyd's in the Park. Great restaurants with natural atmosphere.