Taylor is one of the most verdant cities in Texas, with many hike-and-bike trails that weave through the lush hill country and around the ponds that shimmer over the landscape. Murphy Park celebrates Taylor’s natural gifts and man-made amenities with breathtaking views, safe and family-friendly comforts and conveniences, as well as a warm community that gathers frequently for eagerly anticipated local events.
Murphy Park is the city’s oldest public park. Founded in the 1880s, the park was already providing spring water to the Taylor water tower before the city had even settled. And as the city of Taylor has grown, the park has been expanded and upgraded to accommodate the newest Taylor residents.
Historical Park, Modern Amenities
Murphy Park is the 120-acre community park that acts as the heart of Taylor neighborhoods.
Some of the most popular amenities include Little League baseball fields, open practice fields, ten tennis courts, a football field, Taylor Independent School District’s football field, lovely pavilions, a lap-swimming pool and a splash pad play area for little ones, playgrounds, picnic tables, sand volleyball courts, a miniature golf course and even an old-fashioned bandstand.
The park also has many upgrades planned. Wi-Fi is currently available at the park, but more modern facilities are in the works to be introduced, including a fitness center and more improvements to the aquatic center.
Fishing and Bird Watching
Murphy Park is famous for its natural setting. The pond at the center of the park is an immensely popular fishing spot, with many local anglers eagerly visiting on weekends to catch bass. People also enjoy taking their dogs by the pond, or playing volleyball on the sand.
Bird watching is also a popular activity at the park, especially in the spring and early summer. Locals enjoy heading to the park during the evening to watch herons returning for the night, as well as to catch a spectacular sunset view over the bridge on the pond.
Fireworks, Festivals and the International BBQ Cook-Off
Murphy Park features many fun and exciting events. Annual events include the Relay for Life of Taylor, the city’s own 5K race with all proceeds donated to charity, the Taylor Independence Day Festival with fireworks and tennis tournaments as well as the Taylor International BBQ Cook-Off where Texas barbeque masters gather to compete with their own lip-smacking recipes.