In the early 1860s the Fidler family established their home on this site. From that time they have been the sole owners of this property. In 1995 the land was sold and subdivided for housing. Wanting to preserve some of the rich heritage of the site, the new owners of the land approached the Park District with a unique proposal. They were willing to preserve the farm buildings, which included the original home and barn built by the Fidlers, if the District would be willing to accept them as part of the developer's land donation obligations. The District readily accepted. Not only did the developer's donation include the land and buildings it also included a 23 acre parcel of reconstructed wetland. This area will play an integral part in outdoor education programs. In 2001 a large playground was installed as was a picnic shelter. In 2003 the district renovated the barn to a condition closer to original. Both of these amenities carry forward the "farm" theme of the site. No solid plans have been developed yet for the remainder of the property but the community can rest assured that careful consideration will be given to how this important part of Batavia's history will be developed.
Fidler Farm Park contains a natural wetland and connects to the Prairie Path Trail.
Explore one of Batavia’s favorites; Engstrom Park. In 1984 this park was developed using grant funds from the State of Illinois. The park is one of the ten community parks in the district and was named after the previous owners of the property. Engstrom Park is considered a family favorite because of the park that has something to accommodate all ages and abilities with an accessible swing. The park is also home to a baseball diamond, soccer field, basketball court, shelter, bathroom and a walk/jogging path.
Engstrom Park has the second largest picnic shelter. The picnic shelter is the perfect place to host a birthday party or family gathering. To reserve the shelter call the district office at 630-879-5235.
Carriage Crest Park is one of several owned by Batavia Park District and Geneva Park District. This site features a walking/jogging/biking path, two playground areas accommodating all ages and abilities. Carriage Crest has no parking, but it has two entrances with side street parking at both of them.
Braeburn Park and Preserve is a joint ownership project between Batavia Park District, Geneva Park District and the Kane County Preserve District. This project started in 2010. Braeburn is 50 acres with 5.5 acres being developed land while 44.5 acres is marsh and wetland. A raised walkway was developed to allow for visitors to access this interesting part of the park. Braeburn is home to a basketball court, playground, mini-shelter, and a pick-up baseball field.
Bennett Park was acquired in 2012 and is home to a bicycle path, picnic area, playground and shelter with grills. If interested in reserving the shelter, contact the district office at 630-879-5235.
One of the special gems of the Park District, this historic church has been home to hundreds of wedding ceremonies, receptions, anniversaries, birthdays and so much more.
This historic church has been converted to the perfect space for your next occasion. Shannon Hall is a special gem in the community that has been home to hundreds of wedding ceremonies, receptions, anniversaries and other celebrations. Stained glass windows add an elegant touch to your special event. The space features a raised stage, and renters will have access to a full kitchen. Schedule a tour and see for yourself why this building’s interior and exterior is truly love at first sight.
Please visit the Shannon Hall Rentals page for more information.
Named Batavia Park Districts 2025 Park Madness winner, Big Woods is a fan favorite. With a baseball diamond, basketball court, bicycle path, parking lot, picnic area, playground, restrooms, soccer fields, softball fields, tennis courts, walking/jogging path and the largest rentable picnic shelter that the district owns. The shelter has access to water, electricity and grills. If interested in reserving the shelter, contact the district office at (630) 879-5235.
Big Woods Park has a large parking lot and is within walking/biking distance from Prairie Path Park. There are three entrances to the park; one off Raddant Rd., one off Tierney Ln., and one off Burnham Ln.
