A Cherished Retreat in the Heart of New Canaan
Nestled just moments from downtown, Irwin Park is a 36-acre haven of rolling lawns, an apple orchard, and a remarkable collection of specimen trees. At its heart is a 1.2-mile Flexi- Pave walking trail, providing a safe and scenic path for visitors. Once a private estate, the park became public in 2008, thanks to the generosity of the Irwin family, and the dedication of the New Canaan Garden Club (NCGC), and the New Canaan community.
A Sanctuary for Nature and Community
Irwin Park provides an opportunity for people of all ages to connect with nature and enjoy the changing seasons. Each spring, over 50,000 daffodils—replenished annually by NCGC—blanket the Great Lawn to create a breathtaking display. Visitors can pack a picnic, stroll the paths, or simply relax in this tranquil setting. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Ongoing Conservation & Beautification Efforts
The New Canaan Garden Club leads the stewardship efforts of Irwin Park through an endowment established by the Irwin Family. NCGC is dedicated to sustaining its biodiversity and habitat by managing and enhancing its trees and native plantings and protecting it from harmful invasivespecies. Together with the Town of New Canaan and other local organizations, NCGC maintains and improves its walking trails and gathering spaces ensuring the park is enjoyable and accessible to all including:
- Completion of the Flexi-Pave trail, forming a continuous loop around the park
- New plantings & tree preservation to support biodiversity and pollinators, including the
endangered Monarch butterfly - A newly-refreshed Children’s Mushroom Maze Garden near the historic barn
- Installation of benches, picnic tables, bluebird houses, and a gazebo for visitors’ enjoyment
A Legacy of Architecture & Art
Within the park sits the Gores Pavilion, a mid-century modern treasure originally designed as a pool house by Landis Gores, a member of the famed Harvard Five architects. Now maintained by the New Canaan Historical Society, it serves as an exhibition space for rotating art and photography exhibits and is open May through October, Friday–Sunday, 11 AM–3 PM.
Join Friends of Irwin Park!
Irwin Park is a place for all to enjoy, but it requires ongoing care and investment to preserve its natural beauty. Join Friends of Irwin Park to support restoration projects, native plantings, and ongoing conservation efforts.