Union Square | Somerville

Jim Barnett Park is a municipal park located in Winchester, Virginia, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a 18-hole disc golf course, a swimming pool complex, and several athletic fields. The landscape includes mature trees providing shade, open grassy areas, and paved walking paths. The Winchester Aquatic Center includes multiple pools, including a competition pool and a leisure pool with water features.

Location & Access Logistics

Jim Barnett Park is situated at 1037 East Jubal Early Drive, Winchester, VA 22601. It is approximately 1.5 miles east of the Winchester city center. Access is via East Jubal Early Drive, which connects to US-50 (James Wood Highway). Ample parking is available within the park grounds, including dedicated lots for the aquatic center and athletic fields. Public transport options include the Winchester Transit bus system; Route 3 serves the area with stops near the park entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established on land formerly part of the Winchester Country Club. The Winchester Aquatic Center was constructed in the early 2000s, with subsequent additions and renovations. The park's ecological setting is within the Shenandoah Valley, characterized by deciduous forest vegetation and a temperate climate.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include swimming at the Winchester Aquatic Center (seasonal operation), playing disc golf on the 18-hole course, utilizing the athletic fields for sports like soccer and baseball, and walking or jogging on the paved trails. The park also contains playgrounds and picnic areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Winchester Aquatic Center and near the athletic fields. Shade is provided by mature trees and some covered picnic shelters. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the park. Food vendors are not permanently stationed within the park, but concessions are typically available at the aquatic center during operating hours.

Best Time to Visit

For swimming, the best time is during the operational months of the Winchester Aquatic Center, typically from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. For disc golf and general park use, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures. Early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting for photography of the park's natural features.

Facts & Legends

A unique feature of the Winchester Aquatic Center is its Olympic-sized competition pool, which has hosted regional swimming events. The park's location is near historical Civil War sites, though the park itself does not contain significant historical markers.

Nearby Landmarks

• Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (1.2km West)
• Old Town Winchester (1.8km West)
• Glen Burnie Historic House and Gardens (1.2km West)
• Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum (2.1km West)