Trolley Park got its name from the streetcar line that ran through the park. An extensive line connected Park Hills with downtown Covington, Cincinnati, and other parts of Kenton County. Visitors also used the streetcars to get to Devou Park. The town’s history thus brings together commuter travel and excursions; Trolley Park gives both themes a tangible connection.

Transportation and Local History

The stone buildings at both ends of Trolley Park once served as shelters for commuters waiting for the streetcar. This detail shifts the focus from the line itself to the people who used it in their daily lives.

A different kind of movement shaped the history of Stonewall House. Built in the mid-19th century, the building was a restaurant and tavern, and served as a stopping point for cattle drivers on the turnpike en route to the markets in Covington and Cincinnati. It later became known as Hotel Hahn. The connection between routes, shelters, and stopping points shows that local history also tells the story of the paths traveled by commuters, visitors, and cattle drivers.

Historic Landscape and Public Spaces

Park Hills’ historic district was added to the National Register and shaped by landscaping from the 1920s through the 1950s. The mature tree canopy frames the historic homes and brings seasonal color to the streets. This span of several decades makes the designed environment itself part of the historic context, rather than merely a backdrop for the homes.

Trolley Park and other public areas are also being improved with play areas, seating, lighting, and other amenities. Specific amenities may change.

Seasonal Events at Trolley Park

One seasonal summer offering is a free one-hour yoga session at Trolley Park on Saturdays in May. The annual traditional Easter egg hunt is for children ages 2 to 12 and includes an egg hunt, snacks, and the Easter Bunny. The annual Christmas in the Park event includes a tree lighting at Trolley Park as well as visits from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Events are spread throughout the year, taking place in May, at Easter, and at Christmas. Since event details may change, check the date and schedule for the relevant year.

Devou Park in Covington

Devou Park in Covington is near Park Hills. It spans more than 700 acres and offers golf, mountain biking trails, a fishing lake, and paved and natural-surface trails. Devou Park therefore offers a different focus from Park Hills’ local history: here, extensive recreational opportunities meet a diverse trail system. Facilities and access details may change. Check this information before visiting.

Explore more destinations: Fort Mitchell, Erlanger, Lakeside Park, Bromley, Covington, Fort Wright

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