Veterans Park Lehigh Acres, FL: Hours, Amenities & Directions
Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres, FL is a 95-acre public park at 55 Homestead Road South, open daily from dawn to dusk. It features a splash pad, skate park, dog park, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, softball fields, a fishing lake, and a recreation center with a gymnasium and fitness center. Admission to the park is free.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936 |
| Park Hours | Dawn to dusk, daily |
| Recreation Center Hours | Mon–Thu 7 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri 7 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–5 p.m. |
| Phone | 239-369-1521 |
| Official Agency | Lee County Parks & Recreation |
| Park Size | 95 acres |
| Key Amenities | Splash pad, skate park, dog park, pickleball, tennis, basketball, softball, playgrounds, fitness center |
| Membership | $10 individual / $25 family (lifetime, recreation center access) |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Veterans Park and Recreation Center is the central gathering space in Lehigh Acres, serving as both a community hub and a tribute to military service. The park’s walkway is lined with oak trees dedicated to individual veterans, and the facility hosts youth sports leagues, family movie nights, holiday events, and fitness classes throughout the year. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the area, this guide covers everything you need to know about hours, amenities, directions, and what to expect.
Where Is Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres?
Veterans Park is located at 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936, in eastern Lee County. The park sits on the campus of Veterans Park Academy for the Arts elementary school, making it easily identifiable for first-time visitors.
Lehigh Acres is a sprawling residential community covering 96 square miles, situated approximately 12 miles east of Fort Myers. The park is centrally located within the community, accessible from major roads including Lee Boulevard and Homestead Road.
Nearby Landmarks
Veterans Park Academy for the Arts — Adjacent to the park on the same campus
Lehigh Acres Community Pool — Located at 1400 West Fifth Street
Harns Marsh Preserve — A 500-acre birdwatching destination nearby
Pelican’s SnoBalls & Mini Golf — Popular family attraction in the area
GPS Coordinates
For navigation apps, use the address 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936. The park entrance is clearly marked and accessible from Homestead Road.
Veterans Park Hours of Operation
Veterans Park grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk. The park itself does not have formal gate hours, but visitors should plan to exit by sunset for safety and security reasons.
The Veterans Park Recreation Center operates on a different schedule with specific indoor hours.
Recreation Center Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday–Thursday | 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Friday | 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. |
| Saturday–Sunday | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityImportant notes:
The Weight Room and Locker Rooms remain open until 15 minutes prior to closing
All hours are subject to change without notice, especially during holidays and maintenance periods
The indoor courts may be closed for special events, tournaments, or maintenance
Holiday Closures
The recreation center may operate on modified schedules during major holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Independence Day. Contact the center directly at 239-369-1521 to confirm holiday hours before visiting.
Veterans Park Amenities
Veterans Park offers a comprehensive range of recreational amenities spread across 95 acres. The park was developed in multiple phases between 1993 and 2008, with each phase adding new facilities to meet community needs.
Water Features
Splash Pad — A zero-depth water play area with interactive features, perfect for children and families during Florida’s warm months
Fishing Lake — A manmade lake stocked for catch-and-release fishing, with shoreline access
Sports Facilities
| Facility | Quantity/Details |
|---|---|
| Softball Fields | Two lighted fields |
| Tennis Courts | Four lighted courts |
| Basketball Courts | Two covered, lighted courts |
| Pickleball Courts | Available (converted from tennis courts during designated hours) |
| Volleyball Courts | Sand volleyball courts available |
| Multi-Purpose Athletic Field | Used for cricket, flag football, soccer |
| Handball Court | Available for public use |
Playgrounds
Veterans Park features three distinct playgrounds:
Boulder Playground — A nature-themed play area with climbing boulders and natural elements
Traditional Playground — Standard play equipment for younger children
Splash Playground — A water-based play area integrated with the splash pad
Dog Park
The Paws 4 Duty Dog Park is located in close proximity to the recreation center. The dog park provides separate areas for large and small dogs, with water stations and waste bags available.
Dog park rules:
Dogs must be leashed outside the designated off-leash area
Owners must clean up after their pets
Aggressive dogs are not permitted
Skate Park
The skate park features a concrete skate bowl—one of the original amenities from Phase I construction in 1993. It is open during regular park hours and is suitable for skateboards, roller skates, and BMX bikes.
Recreation Center
The Veterans Park Recreation Center provides indoor facilities for sports, fitness, and community programs.
Center amenities include:
Fully equipped gymnasium with basketball and volleyball courts
Fitness center with weight room and cardio equipment
Locker room facilities
Game room
Several large multi-purpose rooms for meetings and classes
Membership rates:
| Membership Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Individual | $10 (lifetime) |
| Family | $25 (lifetime) |
| Day Pass | $5 (visitors) |
Membership is valid at all Lee County recreation center locations, including North Fort Myers, Wa-Ke Hatchee, and Estero. Members receive an ID card that must be presented at the main entrance for access.
Weight Room access: There is an additional fee for the weight room: $20 for one month, $80 for six months, or $120 for one year. Members ages 14–15 may use the weight room as part of a wellness program or when accompanied by an adult.
Picnic Areas and Pavilions
The park offers multiple picnic shelters and pavilions available for rent or first-come, first-served use. A lodge with a full kitchen is also available for rent for private events and gatherings.
Book Walk
Veterans Park is home to Lee County’s first Book Walk, a permanent installation along the walking path by the tennis courts and playground. The Book Walk features pages from bilingual Spanish/English picture books displayed on aluminum stands, encouraging literacy and outdoor activity simultaneously.
How to Get to Veterans Park: Directions
Veterans Park is easily accessible from major highways and local roads in Lehigh Acres.
From I-75
Take Exit 138 (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard)
Head east on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
Turn left onto Lee Boulevard
Turn right onto Homestead Road North
The park entrance will be on the left
From Downtown Fort Myers
Take Lee Boulevard east toward Lehigh Acres
Continue for approximately 12 miles
Turn right onto Homestead Road
The park entrance will be on the left
From Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
Exit the airport onto Terminal Access Road
Merge onto I-75 North toward Tampa
Take Exit 138 (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard)
Head east on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
Turn left onto Lee Boulevard
Turn right onto Homestead Road
The park entrance will be on the left
Public Transportation
LeeTran, Lee County’s public transit system, provides bus service to Lehigh Acres. The nearest bus stop to Veterans Park is Leelnd W @ Lois Way, approximately a 2-minute walk from the park entrance.
For route information and schedules, visit the LeeTran website or call 239-533-8726.
Parking
Veterans Park offers free on-site parking with ample spaces available near the recreation center, sports fields, and playgrounds. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. During large community events, additional overflow parking may be available on nearby streets.
History of Veterans Park
Veterans Park has served the Lehigh Acres community for more than three decades, evolving from a small community park into the area’s premier recreation destination.
Timeline of Development
| Year | Phase | Additions |
|---|---|---|
| 1993 | Phase I | Manmade lake, large hill, concrete skate-park bowl, playground, outdoor basketball court, pavilion |
| 1994 | Renamed | Originally “Lehigh Community Park South,” renamed “Veterans Community Park” in honor of veterans |
| 2003 | Phase II | Multi-purpose recreation center, two softball fields, rock-climbing play area, maintenance compound, lake enlargement |
| 2008 | Phase III | Four lighted tennis courts, two covered lighted basketball courts, splash playground |
| Final Phase | Completion | Handball court, multipurpose athletic field (cricket, flag football, soccer), additional picnic areas, Paws 4 Duty Dog Park |
A Tribute to Veterans
The park’s identity is deeply connected to military service. The walkway is lined with oak trees dedicated to individual veterans, creating a living memorial within the park. The park’s name and dedication reflect Lee County’s commitment to honoring those who served.
Community Events
Veterans Park hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including:
Back-to-School Bash — Free backpacks and school supplies for local students
Movie in the Park — Free family movie nights on the athletic field
Annual Egg Hunt — Easter celebration for children
Holiday Events — Seasonal celebrations throughout the year
Youth Sports Leagues — Soccer, baseball, and other youth athletics
Fitness Classes — Free and paid classes including dance, aerobics, and martial arts
Programs and Classes at Veterans Park
The Veterans Park Recreation Center offers a variety of programs for all ages, from toddlers to seniors.
Youth Programs
After-School Program — Supervised activities for children after school hours
Summer Camp — Full-day camp programs during summer break (7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
Dance Classes — Ballet, tap, jazz, and hip-hop for various age groups
Martial Arts — Karate and other martial arts instruction
Toddler Classes — Parent-and-child classes for early development
Youth Sports — Basketball, volleyball, soccer, and more
Adult Programs
Adult Basketball — Open gym times and leagues
Adult Volleyball — Recreational and competitive play
Adult Soccer — Pickup games and organized leagues
Fitness Classes — Aerobics, dance fitness, and more
Weight Room — Individual fitness training with equipment access
Free Fitness Classes
Veterans Park offers free fitness classes on weekdays at the pavilion near the baseball field:
Dance — 8:15 a.m.
Aerobics — 9:15 a.m.
These classes are open to the community at no charge.
Registration
Registration for classes and programs is available:
Online — Visit www.leeparks.org and click “Online Registration”
In Person — At the Veterans Park Recreation Center front desk
By Phone — Call 239-369-1521
Pre-registration is encouraged for all activities to help instructors prepare. Payment is required for the first day of class prior to participation.
Veterans Park vs. Other Lehigh Acres Parks
Lehigh Acres offers several parks, each with distinct features. Here is how Veterans Park compares to other nearby options.
| Park | Location | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterans Park | 55 Homestead Rd S | 95 acres, splash pad, skate park, dog park, rec center, sports courts | Families, athletes, community events |
| Lehigh Acres Community Park North | 1400 West Fifth St | Baseball fields, football field, tennis courts, playground, pool | Youth sports, swimming |
| Lehigh Acres Trailhead Park | 213 David Ave | Half-mile paved trail, picnic pavilions, observation boardwalk | Walking, birding, quiet recreation |
| Harns Marsh Preserve | 38th Street West | 500+ acres, birdwatching, wildlife viewing | Nature enthusiasts, photographers |
Veterans Park is the largest and most feature-rich park in the Lehigh Acres area, offering the widest range of amenities for all ages.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Veterans Park is designed to be accessible to visitors of all abilities.
ADA Accessibility
Paved pathways connect major areas of the park
Accessible parking spaces are available near the recreation center and playgrounds
Restrooms are ADA-compliant
The recreation center is fully accessible
Splash pad is zero-depth and wheelchair accessible
Senior Programs
The recreation center offers programs specifically designed for seniors, including low-impact fitness classes and social activities. The Lehigh Acres Community Pool, located nearby, offers water exercise and arthritis foundation classes.
Military and Veteran Recognition
The park’s dedication to veterans is reflected in its name, the memorial oak trees, and the community’s ongoing commitment to honoring military service. Veterans and military families are always welcome at the park and recreation center.
Common Questions
What are the hours of Veterans Park in Lehigh Acres?
The park grounds are open dawn to dusk daily. The recreation center is open Monday–Thursday 7 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday 7 a.m.–7 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Hours may vary on holidays.
Is there an admission fee for Veterans Park?
No. Admission to the park is free. The recreation center requires a membership ($10 individual / $25 family lifetime) or a $5 day pass for visitors to access indoor amenities.
Does Veterans Park have a splash pad?
Yes. Veterans Park features a splash playground with zero-depth water features, perfect for children and families. The splash pad is free and open during regular park hours.
Is there a dog park at Veterans Park?
Yes. The Paws 4 Duty Dog Park is located near the recreation center. It offers separate areas for large and small dogs. Dogs must be leashed outside the designated off-leash area.
How do I get to Veterans Park from I-75?
From I-75, take Exit 138 (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard) and head east. Turn left onto Lee Boulevard, then right onto Homestead Road. The park entrance is on the left.
Does Veterans Park have a skate park?
Yes. The skate park features a concrete skate bowl that has been part of the park since its original construction in 1993. It is open during regular park hours.
Can I rent a pavilion at Veterans Park?
Yes. The park offers picnic shelters and pavilions for rent, as well as a lodge with a full kitchen for larger events. Contact the recreation center at 239-369-1521 for availability and pricing.
Is there a pool at Veterans Park?
No, there is no swimming pool at Veterans Park. However, the Lehigh Acres Community Pool is located nearby at 1400 West Fifth Street. It features an eight-lane saltwater heated pool.
What sports facilities are at Veterans Park?
The park offers tennis courts, basketball courts, pickleball courts, softball fields, sand volleyball courts, a multi-purpose field (for cricket, flag football, and soccer), and a handball court.
Does Veterans Park have a fitness center?
Yes. The recreation center includes a fitness center with a weight room and cardio equipment. Access requires an additional fee: $20/month, $80/6 months, or $120/year.
Are there free classes at Veterans Park?
Yes. Free dance and aerobics classes are offered weekdays at the pavilion near the baseball field (Dance 8:15 a.m., Aerobics 9:15 a.m.). The recreation center also offers paid classes for all ages.
What events are held at Veterans Park?
Veterans Park hosts Movie in the Park nights, a Back-to-School Bash, an Annual Egg Hunt, holiday celebrations, and youth sports leagues throughout the year.
Is Veterans Park pet-friendly?
Yes. On-leash dogs are permitted throughout the park. Off-leash dogs are allowed only in the designated Paws 4 Duty Dog Park. Owners must clean up after their pets.
Does Veterans Park have a Book Walk?
Yes. Veterans Park is home to Lee County’s first Book Walk, featuring bilingual Spanish/English picture books displayed along the walking path near the tennis courts.
Key Takeaways
Veterans Park is located at 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936, on the campus of Veterans Park Academy for the Arts.
Park grounds are open dawn to dusk daily; recreation center hours are Mon–Thu 7 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri 7 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat–Sun 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission to the park is free; recreation center membership is $10 individual / $25 family lifetime, or $5 day pass for visitors.
The 95-acre park features a splash pad, skate park, dog park, three playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, softball fields, and a fishing lake.
Sports facilities include pickleball, sand volleyball, a multi-purpose field for cricket/flag football/soccer, and a handball court.
The Paws 4 Duty Dog Park provides separate areas for large and small dogs.
Directions from I-75: Take Exit 138, head east on MLK Jr. Blvd, left on Lee Blvd, right on Homestead Rd; entrance on left.
Free fitness classes (dance and aerobics) are offered weekdays at the pavilion near the baseball field.
The park’s walkway is lined with oak trees dedicated to individual veterans, honoring military service.
Community events include Movie in the Park, Back-to-School Bash, Annual Egg Hunt, and youth sports leagues.
Official Resources
Lee County Parks & Recreation — www.leegov.com/parks | 239-533-7275
Veterans Park Recreation Center — 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936 | 239-369-1521
Lee County Parks & Recreation Online Registration — www.leeparks.org
LeeTran Public Transit — www.leegov.com/leeftran | 239-533-8726
Lehigh Acres Community Pool — 1400 West Fifth Street, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936 | 239-369-2377
VA.gov — Apply for VA healthcare, disability, education, and home loan benefits
SSA.gov — Social Security benefits information
IRS.gov — Federal tax information for veterans
USA.gov — General government services
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