Gooch Playground, Street, Melrose, MA 02176, US

This park nearly failed to exist. In 1983 it was slated to be torn down by private developers. But Alderman Ken Foss successfully fought to preserve the playground as a public park. There's plenty to do at this cozy little park nestled between Lynde Street and Malvern Street. There's a woodchip playground with swings, benches and picnic tables. On one side of the play-area sits a tee-ball field and on the other lies a basketball court. Feel free to bring your dog to roam around the outfield grass, just don't bring them into the playground. There is street parking, but it's limited to one side on both Lynde and Malvern.