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Community Corner

Patch Picks: Parks

Patch takes a look at some of the area's best parks.

Nothing says "it's summer" like going to the park. There's usually a little more time for fun during the warm season, and nothing can fill a day like one of our area parks. We may be a stone's throw from the big city, but that doesn't mean that Milwaukee County is lacking in breathtaking natural locations.

Here are our picks for the best area parks:

1. 

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One of Milwaukee County's newest parks, Bender Park is located along the shores of Lake Michigan and can be accessed by driving east on Ryan Road. It features a beautiful overlook of the beach and Lake Michigan. Also, spooky rumor has it that Bender Park is , which can make night excursions to the area quite an adventure.

4300 E Ryan Road.

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2. Grant Park

Just a bit outside Oak Creek, Grant Park in South Milwaukee is a vast, beautiful park with a little something for everyone. Here, you'll find playgrounds, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, boat landings, the beach and picnic tables. Pavilions are available to rent for those celebrating larger parties.

100 E. Hawthorne Ave., South Milwaukee.

3. South Shore Park

South Shore Park, in neighboring Bay View, has gorgeous views of the lake, ample parking and an interesting pavillion in the park's center.

2900 S. Shore Drive, Milwaukee.

4. Whitnall Park

Franklin's Whitnall Park is home to scenic wooded areas and hiking trails, various bodies of water and a well-kept mountain bike trail. Also located in Whitnall Park are the Wehr Nature Center and Boerner Botanical Gardens.

S. 92nd Street, Franklin.

5. 

Named after the city's first mayor, Abendschein Park features plenty of open area with room to set up shop or roam around. One of the park's greatest assets is its disc-golfing (frolfing) course. The popular sport is a great, leisurly activity that will allow you to experience and appreciate everything the park has to offer.

1321 E. Drexel Ave.

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