Which U.S. cities have the best parks and public spaces?

Travel & Selling Tips / Which U.S. cities have the best parks and public spaces?

Top options for a breath of fresh air

The shared public spaces have become more important than ever in the past year, giving us a place to get outside, get active and breathe the fresh air in a safe and socially distanced way. USA TODAY asked their readers to vote for their favorites. The results are in.

Best City Park: Gathering Place in Tulsa, Oklahoma

Gathering Place, a new riverfront park in Tulsa, was designed as an inclusive green space where residents and visitors alike can relax and engage with one another. The expansive park makes use of more than 6 million gallons of water and 80 tree species, with attractions like multi-story fireplaces, an adventure playground, boathouse, sensory garden and a reading tree.

Which-U.S.-cities-have-the-best-parks-and-public-spaces--Gathering-Place Photo courtesy of Gathering Place

Best Public Square: Centerway Square in Corning, New York

The town of Corning was revitalized in 1989 when two blocks of street were replaced with the pedestrian plaza known as Centerway Square. This brick-paved area features a 50-foot clock tower, street lamps and a covered stage for live events.

Which-U.S.-cities-have-the-best-parks-and-public-spaces--Centerway-Square-Corning Photo courtesy of Brian Maloney / Corning and the Southern Finger Lakes

Best Recreational Trail: Chuck Huckelberry Loop in Tucson, Arizona

The Chuck Huckelberry Loop in Tucson comprises 130 miles of paved paths and bike lanes (with more on the way). The path is open to cyclists, walkers, runners, horseback riders or skaters and connects parks and trailheads throughout the city.

Which-U.S.-cities-have-the-best-parks-and-public-spaces--Loop Photo courtesy of Pima County

Best Riverwalk: Detroit International RiverWalk in Michigan

The riverfront redevelopment in Detroit, a city with 14 miles of shoreline along the Detroit River, is one of the city's most exciting initiatives. The East Riverfront of the Detroit International RiverWalk stretches from Joe Louis Arena to Gabriel Richard Park and includes several parks, restaurants, splash parks and natural areas.

Which-U.S.-cities-have-the-best-parks-and-public-spaces--Stephen-McGee Photo courtesy of Stephen McGee / Detroit Riverfront Conservancy

Best Urban Kayaking Spot: Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, Ohio

The Cuyahoga River runs through the heart of Cleveland, providing a popular sport for all sorts of water recreation. The Cuyahoga River Water Trail features five segments along the 87-mile river. The last segment comprises 20 miles of the river as it passes through Cleveland and into Lake Erie.

Which-U.S.-cities-have-the-best-parks-and-public-spaces--Cuyahoga-River Photo courtesy of iStock / PapaBear