With more than nine acres of beautifully landscaped open space, a duck pond, fitness oval and the site of Anchorage's first fully accessible playground, Cuddy Family Midtown Park is one Anchorage's most popular family spots -- a place where parents and their children can enjoy a leisurely afternoon playing and relaxing.
Parking and public transportation at Cuddy Family Midtown Park
Cuddy Family Midtown Park has plenty of free on-site parking. Routes 2, 36 and 102 of the Anchorage People Mover all stop at the park.
Best and worst times to go to Cuddy Family Midtown Park
The best time to visit Cuddy Family Midtown Park is late April to late September. The weather is mild and the snow has melted, which means you will have full access to the playground equipment and can have picnics on the vast lawn. There is no worst time to visit; even in winter, the sloping hills are great for sledding, and the skating oval is maintained by the Municipality of Anchorage. Just make sure to dress appropriately - layers in spring, summer and early fall (Anchorage weather can vary greatly throughout the day), and hats, mittens, boots and heavy jackets in winter, when you can expect below freezing temperatures.
Admission to Cuddy Family Midtown Park
There is no charge to use the park or its amenities.
Must see/do at Cuddy Family Midtown Park
The playground has two play structures, one for infants/young kids and another for the older crowd, both of which are fully accessible. There is also a climbing wall and sand pit, where children can dig and uncover a salmon fossil. In winter, bring your ice skates to do laps around the 400 meter skating oval, one of only six Olympic-sized ovals in the country.
Other Places to visit near Cuddy Family Midtown Park
Located on the north end of the Cuddy Family Midtown Park parking lot is the Loussac Library. Attend one of the many children's story times, or purchase a coffee and sandwich at the Café at the Library to enjoy at the large fountain directly in front of the library.
Insider tip for visitors to Cuddy Family Midtown Park
Every June the carnival comes to Cuddy Family Midtown Park, complete with traditional carnival rides, games and food.
Author's bio: Amy Newman has lived in Alaska for 13 years, the past six in Anchorage. She has written about Alaska travel for regional and national publication.
