The blazing Kansas summer is nowhere to be found; fall is now upon us. Leaves have turned red and blustery breezes have replaced warm winds, which makes this season the perfect time to appreciate your outdoor surroundings. Instead of relying on electronic devices and fermented beverages to pass the time, visit the 52 beautiful parks in Lawrence once in a while before winter comes. Parks are for everybody regardless of age or gender. You can relax, let go of your stress, and take in the beauty of nature, which is often taken for granted, says Roger Steinbrock, marketing supervisor of Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department. Let me introduce some of Lawrence’s best parks.

Centennial Park

600 Rockledge Road

Centennial Park is one of the best-known parks among college students because of its disc golf course, Steinbrock says. Because it provides many sources of entertainment, this park has acquired many nicknames: Rocket Park, Skate Park and Frisbee Golf Park to name a few. The name Rocket Park comes from the Polaris missile that was constructed during the Cold War, and the park is also known for its large skate park located on the west side, which attracts hundreds of skate lovers every day, .

Another entertaining aspect of this park is the 18-hole disc golf course. The sport shares similar characteristics and rules with traditional golf, but it uses a flying disc instead of golf balls and clubs. It’s much easier to learn and takes little money to play. The game is designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages regardless of their economic status, says Morris Judd, member of the Professional Disc Golf Association.

Japanese Friendship Garden

1045 Massachusetts St.

If you are looking for an exotic place to meditate, or need a quiet oasis when you are shopping downtown, visit the Japanese Friendship Garden. The park is relatively small compared to other parks, but it’s the perfect place to let your body and mind rest. Jacob Swartwout, Belleville, Ill., junior, visits the garden from time to time. He says the garden puts him into a perfect mood to think over complicated matters. Various objects, such as stone sculptures, and plants, like Japanese maples, cherry trees and bamboo, add to the Asian atmosphere. This aesthetic garden was built to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Lawrence’s relationship with its sister city, Hiratsuka, Japan. Representatives from Hiratsuka came to Lawrence to help design and plan the park several years ago. The staff of the Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department worked with them to create this exotic garden. The city of Hiratsuka also shipped two major pieces from Japan; a lantern and a human-sized stone tower.

“The gorgeous atmosphere here helps me capture piece of mind,” Swartwout says.

South Park

1141 Massachusetts St.

Located in the heart of downtown, South Park is the oldest park in Lawrence. It was founded in 1854 as part of the original town site. It is probably utilized the most in Lawrence as the venue for many public concerts and community events like The Fall Arts and Crafts Festival, Steinbrock says. Weddings are often held here, as well. because of the beautiful scenery, including a fountain and flower gardens. Incidentally, the fountain is of historical significance. It dates back to 1910 when President Teddy Roosevelt was present at its dedication.

“I think college students should visit parks to relieve the stresses inherent to college. It would help them refresh and rejuvenate. Parks also help to create memories with friends and families. Parks provide a place for students to experience the other side of life—away from the textbook,” Steinbrock says.