City of Sarasota Parks

Font Size: + -
Share & Bookmark, Press Enter to show all options, press Tab go to next option
Print

  • Gillespie Park

    Gillespie Park Outside Sign
    1. Address:710 N Osprey Ave
      Sarasota, FL 34236
    Amenities:
    1. Barbecue Grill
    2. Basketball
    3. Bus Stop
    4. Butterfly Garden
    5. Cycling
    6. Dog Park
    7. Dog Waste Station
    8. Dog Water Fountain
    9. Drinking Fountain/Bottle Filler
    10. Fitness Outdoors
    11. Parking
    12. Pavilion
    13. Pets Allowed
    14. Pickleball Outside
    15. Picnic Tables
    16. Playground
    17. Public Art
    18. Tennis Court
    19. Walking Path
    Categories:
    1. Parks

This park is one of our local parks that honors John Hamilton Gillespie, the first mayor of Sarasota. It features a wide variety of amenities for the community, including a basketball court, an off‑leash dog park known as “The Canine Club,” picnic tables, a fenced playground, a Police sub‑station, a fitness trail, three tennis courts which can also be used for pickleball, outdoor fitness areas, The Gallery of Patriots public art display, and a beautiful pond that supports local birds and other wildlife.

After repairs of Gillespie park bridge

John Hamilton Gillespie played a pivotal role in shaping early Sarasota. Some key aspects of his legacy include:

  • He arrived from Scotland in 1886 to help rescue the failing Florida Mortgage and Investment Company and remained to manage its Sarasota holdings, stabilizing the struggling settlement.
  • He led major development efforts such as clearing three miles of Main Street, constructing a substantial waterfront wharf, and establishing a 40‑acre experimental farm.
  • In 1902, he became Sarasota’s first mayor, serving six terms and contributing additionally as Justice of the Peace, Notary Public, and as a leader in the local legal community.
  • He introduced golf to Florida by building the state’s first golf course in Sarasota in 1904 and later designing several others across Florida and one in Havana.
  • Widely known as “Colonel,” he was deeply involved in civic life—supporting the Episcopal church, volunteering in World War I, and helping define the character and identity of early Sarasota.

 

 

IMG_0218

Canine Club at Gillespie Park

Located on the corner of North Osprey Ave & 10th Street. This dog park provides two fenced areas. Unleash and enjoy the day!

by Hispanic-American Civic Association, Inc.

Gallery of Patriots 

This public art display was created by the Hispanic-American Civic Association, Inc. in 1977, this site features 14 outdoor sculptures displayed on pedestals. The collection includes notable historical figures such as U.S. Presidents Abraham Lincoln and George Washington, as well as international leaders like Simón Bolívar of Venezuela, José Martí of Cuba, and many others.

 

Return to full list >>