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Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park

May 2, 2023

Article by Karen Mantone-Pillar  Photos by Andrea L. Miller

If you’re looking for something fun to do with your family, Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park has a lot to offer. Often referred to as simply Bicentennial, this 37-acre park crosses the entire peninsula from a sandy beach on the Atlantic to a fishing pier on the Halifax River. The area between the ocean and river provides the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of activities. There is fishing and hiking as you would expect from a park along the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail but there are also two dog parks, a playground, a community building, and various sports fields.

The most visible entrance is marked by a large sign and a big parking lot at 1800 Ocean Shore Boulevard directly across from the beach. Next to the parking lot are a restroom, a gazebo, picnic areas, and a marked crosswalk to the beach where sunbathing, swimming, and strolling along the ocean can be enjoyed.

Information kiosk near the entrance to the park

 On the west side of the lot is a kiosk with information about the park and the entrance to one of the park’s nature trails.  This trail winds up and down gentle slopes, between the two dog parks and opens into a second parking lot which is also accessible from the Ocean Shore entrance. 

Trail from the front of the park to the 2nd parking lot.

The second lot offers parking next to many of the available activities. Two enclosed dog parks for our large and small canine friends have ample room to run and play and water fountains for thirsty dogs. Both of these sandy areas are fenced and double-gated for security and provide waste pick-up stations, benches, and shady areas for both people and pets.

Small dog park

Across from the dog parks is one of my favorite places to visit with my granddaughter. The playground at Bicentennial has activities for children of all ages. Whether your child enjoys swinging, climbing, sliding, crawling through tunnels, playing make-believe at the storefront, or all the above, they are sure to be entertained. There are swings for both babies and big kids, slides of various heights, and opportunities for beginner and skilled climbers. Adjacent to the playground are water fountains, restrooms, and benches where caregivers can relax and watch their children. Covered by a large tarp that was recently replaced, this area can be enjoyed even during the hottest months. Between the playground and the tennis courts is a row of covered picnic tables making this a popular place for birthday parties. 

Playground and picnic area

Didn’t someone mention sports? Yes! Bicentennial has a baseball/dodgeball field, basketball court, football/soccer field, tennis/racquetball/pickleball courts, and a shuffleboard court. As this park closes at sunset lighting is not provided for the courts and fields. Recreational facilities can be reserved by calling 386-736-5953 between 8:30 and 4:30 on a weekday.

Ball field and tennis/pickleball courts

Past the tennis courts is the entrance to another winding nature trail ending at John Anderson Drive where the second entrance to Bicentennial is located alongside a limited amount of parking. Carefully cross John Anderson to the boardwalk and walk down to the fishing pier to fish or enjoy beautiful views of the Halifax River.

Boardwalk leading to the fishing dock

Fishing dock on the Halifax River

Open daily from sunrise to sunset and conveniently located between two sections of the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail this park has activities for people of all ages and interests. I hope you will visit multiple times to take advantage of everything at Michael Crotty Bicentennial Park.

For additional information please visit https://www.volusia.org/services/community-services/parks-recreation-and-culture/parks-and-trails/park-facilities-and-locations/beachfront-parks/michael-crotty-bicentennial-park.stml

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