Soak up the sun, sit beneath the shade of tall trees and watch the world go by at Ames Park. This 2.2 acre (0.9 hectare) park overlooks the lush sub-tropical environment of the Halifax River. Take time out from your busy schedule to delight in the serene ambiance of this park beside the Halifax River. Spot historical monuments and interesting animal sculptures.
Paved walkways snake around the park’s landscaped gardens, past ornamental ponds and along the riverfront. A quiet atmosphere makes it an idyllic location for picnics and spending time with the family. Relax on the emerald green lawns and sit on a bench while gazing across the river as boats sail by. Find respite from the sun at a wooden gazebo, which has information plaques about the park’s history, fauna and flora.
Look for majestic birdlife, such as cranes and eagles, in addition to animal sculptures. Among the artwork is a stone crocodile and a walrus sculpture whose head pokes out of the river’s surface. A pier juts out into the river from the southern end of the park and is a popular angling location. Bring your own equipment and try your luck fishing for catfish, flounder, mangrove snapper and trout.
The historic Ames House stands at the northern edge of the park. Adelbert Ames, a distinguished soldier and the last-surviving full-rank general from the Civil War, built the house as a winter retreat. Since 1999 it has been used as an attorney’s office. Opposite the park’s southern corner is the Ormond Indian Burial Mound, which stores the remains of 125 Timucua tribespeople.
Located in Ormond Beach, the park is a 15-minute drive from Daytona Beach. Drivers can use the free car park. Bailey Riverbridge Gardens and the Pilgrims Rest Church, which hosted North America’s first Christian wedding, are a 10-minute walk away.
Ames Park is open from sunrise to sunset. Public restrooms are available. Bear in mind that the park might be closed for wedding ceremonies and other private events.
