Klode Park: Playground, Pickleball and Stunning Lake Views

The bluff overlooking Lake Michigan at Klode Park

Location: 5960 N Lake Dr., Whitefish Bay

Klode Park is a beloved destination has been a haven for families seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation for nearly a century. With its lake views and a wide array of amenities, Klode Park offers something special for everyone, from the littlest adventurers to the grown-ups looking for a peaceful escape. Whether you're a local resident or planning a visit to the North Shore, get ready to discover why Klode Park consistently earns its reputation as one of the best family-friendly spots around.

Klode Park isn't just a pretty place; it's packed with features designed to keep families entertained and comfortable throughout their visit. Let's explore the fantastic amenities that make this park a standout destination.

Playground Adventures

For the energetic youngsters in your crew, Klode Park boasts a fantastic playground. Recently updated in the spring of 2024, the new equipment promises a modern and safe play experience for children of various ages. What makes this playground particularly special is its history as a "community-built" space, reflecting the care and investment of local residents. Perched atop the bluff, the "spacious" playground offers not only room to roam but also captivating views overlooking the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan. Adding a touch of nostalgia and local charm, the community was insistent on keeping the "little log cabin" as part of the playground, blending the new with a cherished element of the park's past.

Sports for Everyone

The park features well-maintained tennis courts, a small soccer field and a mulch-lined oval running track. For those looking for a different racquet sport, Klode Park also embraced pickleball courts, boasting four outdoor courts that are actually lined tennis courts. Nets are provided on-site, and organized play sessions take place on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4 pm and Saturdays at 9 am.

Beach Days by the Lake

One of Klode Park's most significant draws is its access to the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. A "picturesque path" or "winding walkway" leads down from the bluff to a sandy beach, offering stunning views along the way. Swimming is permitted, allowing families to splash and play in the refreshing lake waters. It's important to note, however, that swimming is generally at your own risk as lifeguards are not always on duty. Lifeguard services are typically available during the summer months to ensure a safer experience.

The beach itself sandy with light beige sand and is often rarely crowded, making it a pleasant spot for families to relax and enjoy the lakeside. Keep an eye out for beach glass, a unique treasure often found along this shore. For families with young children, the gentle descent to the beach is thoughtfully paved, providing easy stroller access. The beach is open from 6 am to 9 pm, offering ample time for lakeside enjoyment. Pets, alcoholic beverages, and grilling are not permitted in the park.

The North Shore Health Department posts beach status updates on social media: https://www.facebook.com/NSHealthDept

For those concerned about water quality, the park is sampled weekly from late May to the end of September, and you can check the status through resources like Swim Guide or the North Shore Health Department. It's also worth noting that there has been a recent restoration project on the beachfront, involving stabilizing the slope and restoring the sand. Additionally, a stormwater improvement project has been underway, which may cause temporary closures of the beach and parking lot.

Winding Paths and Scenic Views

Beyond the direct beach access, Klode Park offers walking trails where families can enjoy leisurely strolls and take in the beautiful surroundings. One notable trail is the Klode Park Loop, a 1.2-kilometer loop that is generally graded as easy, making it suitable for families with children. This family-friendly trail offers scenic views and coastal walking opportunities, typically taking around 16 to 21 minutes to complete. The gentle descent from the bluff to the beach is also paved, making it accessible for strollers. As you wander through the park, be sure to pause and appreciate the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan that Klode Park is renowned for.

Picnic Perfect Spots

Klode Park is an ideal location for a family picnic, offering designated picnic areas where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal outdoors. The beach also provides ample space for picnicking. For those who prefer a grassy spot, picnicking is allowed on all grass areas on the top of the bluff. However, it's important to remember that cooking grills are not permitted in the park unless it's for an event officially sanctioned by the Village Board. So, pack your sandwiches and snacks and enjoy a delightful meal with a view!

Winter Wonderland

Klode Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland when the temperatures drop. The park features an ice skating rink, providing a fun activity for families to enjoy on crisp winter days. To make your winter experience even more comfortable, there is a warming house available, offering a cozy spot to warm up after skating or playing in the snow.

Convenience Matters

For added convenience, Klode Park provides essential facilities for families. A warming house is located within the park, which also includes restrooms for public use.

Special Features and Unique Attractions

The location of Klode Park on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan provides spectacular views. From various vantage points within the park, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the lake and the surrounding area. The picturesque path down to the beach also offers stunning perspectives. Big Bay Park, another nearby park, is also known for its "amazing views of Lake Michigan," offering an additional scenic spot to explore.

Historical Significance

Klode Park holds a special place in Whitefish Bay's history as the village's first public park, established in 1928. For decades, it has served as a beloved community gathering spot. Interestingly, during the 1940s, a temporary post office was even housed in the former skating rink warming house at Klode Park.

Furthermore, the land that now comprises Klode Park was once owned by Frederick and Anna Grams, early settlers in the area, adding another layer to its rich history. The park also plays a central role in the annual Fourth of July celebration, with the parade culminating here and a festival of food, games, and fireworks taking place.

Community Built Playground

The playground at Klode Park is more than just swings and slides; it's a testament to the community spirit of Whitefish Bay. Built through the efforts and dedication of local residents, the "community-built playground" reflects a shared commitment to providing a wonderful space for children to play and connect.

Park Rules and Safety Guidelines

To ensure everyone enjoys Klode Park safely and respectfully, it's important to be aware of the park's rules and guidelines.

Operating Hours

Klode Park and its beach have specific hours of operation. The public parks, including Klode Park, are open from sunrise until 9:00 p.m. The beach itself has slightly different hours and is open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m..

Swimming Safety

Swimming at Klode Park Beach is at the individual's own risk. While lifeguard services are provided during the summer season, lifeguards are not always present outside of these peak months. For the safety of young swimmers, children under 10 years of age must be accompanied by an adult or a swimmer who is at least 14 years old. One-person flotation devices are permitted, but their use may be restricted at any time.

Stroller Accessibility

Families with young children will appreciate the stroller-friendly features at Klode Park. The path leading down from the bluff to the beach is thoughtfully paved, providing easy access for strollers. This gentle descent makes it convenient to bring little ones and all their gear down to enjoy the lakeside.

Parking

Parking at Klode Park Beach is generally convenient and free, with ample spaces available in the parking lot. The parking lot also offers excellent proximity to the beach, making it easy for families to transport their belongings. However, it's important to be aware of some parking regulations. There is no parking allowed in the public parking areas adjacent to the tennis courts and at the south end of Klode Park between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. The Village of Whitefish Bay offers overnight parking permits and single-night parking permission for residents.

For special events like "Run the Bay," specific parking restrictions may be in place, and it's advisable to refer to event maps and instructions. It's also worth noting that the Klode Park Bluff Stormwater Improvement Project has caused temporary closures of the beach and parking lot at times. For families with specific needs, there is likely an accessible parking space available in the Klode Park Playground parking lot.

Accessibility for Mobility Challenges

While stroller access to the beach is facilitated by paved paths, information regarding comprehensive accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges is somewhat limited. Some sources suggest the beach itself may not have specific accommodations like wheelchair rentals or ramps for direct beach access. For detailed information on accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, it is recommended to contact the Village of Whitefish Bay directly. The Village's website also aims to comply with accessibility standards.

Events and Activities at Klode Park

Klode Park is a hub for community events throughout the year, offering numerous opportunities for family fun.

The annual Fourth of July celebration is a major highlight, with a parade that culminates at Klode Park, followed by an afternoon and evening of food, kids' games, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan.

Another popular annual event is "Run the Bay," a 5K run and kids' fun run that takes place at Klode Park, typically in early May. This community event supports the Whitefish Bay Public Education Foundation and offers a fun way for families to be active together.

Throughout the warmer months, Klode Park often hosts a traveling beer garden, offering a relaxed atmosphere with food, drinks, and live music on select Saturdays. In some years, the park has even been the location for "Klode Park Oktoberfest" in September.

"Green Day in the Bay," an eco-fair promoting environmental awareness, also includes activities at Klode Park, often in conjunction with "Run the Bay". Additionally, the Village Band of Whitefish Bay has been known to perform free concerts at Klode Park during the summer months.

Many of these events are organized by the Whitefish Bay Civic Foundation, a key community organization dedicated to enhancing life in the village.

Other Points of Interest

Beyond Klode Park, Whitefish Bay offers other attractions for families to explore. Big Bay Park, located nearby, features a walking path with stunning views of Lake Michigan. The charming shops and boutiques along Silver Spring Drive are also worth a visit. Other parks in Whitefish Bay include Armory Park, Cahill Square Park, and Old School House Park, each with its own unique features.