If you’ve spent any time driving through Hollywood, Florida, you’ve probably passed it. Tucked away on Johnson Street, Stan Goldman Memorial Park isn't just another patch of grass with a swing set. It’s a 50-acre sprawl that honestly feels like three different parks stitched together. Locals rarely even call it by its full name; to most, it’s just "Hollywoof." That’s because the dog park here is legendary, but if you only go for the pups, you're missing about 80% of what makes this place a staple of Broward County.
The park serves as a green lung for the city. It’s sandwiched between residential neighborhoods and the bustling commerce of the 441 corridor. It has this weird, chaotic energy where you’ll see a serious skateboarder hitting the rails just a few hundred yards away from an elderly couple quietly feeding ducks by the pond. It works.
The Hollywoof Phenomenon: More Than Just a Run
Let’s get the dog situation out of the way first. Most people discover Stan Goldman Memorial Park because they’re looking for a place where their golden retriever won't get side-eyed for being "too energetic."
Hollywoof is a massive, fenced-in sanctuary. It’s split into sections for large and small dogs, which is standard, but the scale here is different. It’s big enough that your dog can actually hit a full sprint without slamming into a fence ten seconds later. You’ll find water stations, plenty of shade—essential for the Florida humidity—and those ubiquitous plastic bag dispensers.
But here is the thing: it’s a social hub.
If you want the local tea on which vet is overcharging or which groomer actually listens to instructions, you go to Hollywoof at 5:30 PM on a Tuesday. The community there is tight. They have their own rhythms. They know each other’s dogs’ names but maybe not each other’s names. It’s a classic Florida scene. Just make sure you have your permit; the city of Hollywood is generally pretty chill, but they do require a "Hollywoof" pass for the off-leash areas. It’s a small fee that keeps the maintenance high, and honestly, the grass stays remarkably green despite the paws.
The Skate Park and the Sound of Concrete
Right next to the barking, you’ve got the Stan Goldman Skate Park. This isn't one of those tiny, pre-fab metal ramp setups that cities throw together to check a box. It’s a concrete flow park.
It has bowls. It has ledges. It has a vibe that can be a little intimidating if you’re a beginner, but the groms (young skaters) and the older guys who still have their kickflips are surprisingly welcoming. You’ll hear the rhythmic clack-clack of wheels on pavement from the parking lot. It’s one of the few places in Hollywood where the youth culture really takes center stage without being over-policed or tucked away in a corner.
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Exploring the "Other" Side of Stan Goldman Memorial Park
If you keep walking past the noise of the skate park and the chaos of the dog runs, the park shifts. It gets quieter. This is where the actual "memorial" part of Stan Goldman Memorial Park feels more present.
The park is named after Stan Goldman, a former Hollywood City Commissioner who was deeply involved in the community. It’s a tribute to a guy who cared about public spaces, and you can see that in the diversity of the amenities.
The Nature Trail and the Wetlands
There is a boardwalk. It’s not a mile-long hike through the Everglades, but it’s a legitimate escape. The path winds through a wetland area that acts as a drainage and filtration system for the local watershed.
- You’ll see iguanas. (Obviously, it’s South Florida.)
- Herons and egrets are constant fixtures.
- The canopy provides a massive temperature drop on a July afternoon.
Walking this loop is the best way to see the park’s true layout. It’s roughly a mile if you do the whole perimeter. The exercise equipment scattered along the path is hit-or-miss—some pieces look like they’ve survived a few too many hurricanes—but for a bodyweight workout in the humidity, it does the job.
Why the Covered Pavilions are Always Booked
Try to get a pavilion here on a Saturday afternoon without a reservation. You won't.
Stan Goldman Memorial Park is the capital of the multi-generational birthday party. You’ll see three different families grilling carne asada, playing reggaeton, and setting up bounce houses. The pavilions are sturdy, covered, and usually have a decent breeze coming off the water. It’s the kind of place where the community actually gathers. It isn't just a "passive" park where people look at trees; it’s an active park where people live their lives.
The Reality of Maintenance and Safety
Look, let’s be real. It’s a city park in a high-traffic area.
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Sometimes the restrooms are... a journey. The city does a decent job, but on a busy weekend with 500 dogs and 1,000 people, things get worn down. There’s been talk in the city commission over the years about more upgrades, especially to the lighting and the older playground equipment.
Is it safe? Generally, yes. It’s very well-lit in the main areas, and because there are always people around, there’s a lot of "eyes on the street." Like any urban park, don't leave your laptop bag in the front seat of your car in the parking lot. Use common sense. The Hollywood Police department does regular sweeps, and the park rangers are usually buzzing around in their carts making sure nobody is breaking the major rules.
The Sports Complex Connection
Just across the way and integrated into the general area is the focus on organized sports. While the dog park gets the headlines, the open fields are used for everything from pick-up soccer to organized youth leagues.
The drainage in the open fields is actually surprisingly good for Florida. Even after one of those 3:00 PM downpours that turns everything into a swamp, the fields at Stan Goldman tend to dry out faster than most. That’s thanks to the way the city engineered the surrounding wetlands to soak up the overflow. It’s smart urban planning that most people never notice.
What Most People Get Wrong About Stan Goldman
A common misconception is that this is just a "neighborhood park" for people who live within walking distance.
Actually, people drive from Fort Lauderdale and Pembroke Pines to come here. Why? Because it’s one of the few places that offers a specific "urban-natural" mix. You can go from a high-energy skate session to a quiet bird-watching walk in five minutes.
Another mistake: thinking it’s only for morning visits.
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The park actually peaks in the late afternoon. The lighting during the "golden hour" hitting the pond is genuinely beautiful. It’s a favorite spot for local amateur photographers or people trying to get a decent headshot without paying for a studio. The contrast of the tall pines and the water creates a backdrop that doesn't look like it’s ten minutes away from a Guitar Center.
A Quick Guide to Visiting
If you're planning to head out, here is the lowdown on the practical stuff.
- Parking: There are two main lots. The one near the dog park fills up fast. If it’s slammed, drive around to the other side near the skate park. There is almost always a spot there.
- Dog Permits: If you’re a visitor, you can usually get a day pass or just check the city's current requirements online. Don't just walk in; the regulars are pretty protective of the space and will tell you if your dog needs a tag.
- Water: There are fountains, but this is Florida. Bring a gallon of your own if you're planning on staying more than an hour.
- Bugs: The boardwalk area can get "buggy" after a rain. If you’re prone to getting eaten alive by mosquitoes, wear spray.
The Fish Situation
You’ll see people fishing in the ponds. It’s mostly catch-and-release, and you’ll find plenty of tilapia and the occasional peacock bass. It isn't exactly "wild" fishing, but for kids learning how to cast a line, it’s a perfect training ground. Just watch out for the turtles; they are aggressive and will absolutely try to steal your bait.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
Don't just show up and wander aimlessly. To get the most out of Stan Goldman Memorial Park, follow this sequence:
- Go Early or Late: Avoid the 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM window. The heat is brutal and the activity is low.
- Park at the North Lot: It’s usually quieter and gives you a nice walk through the wooded area before you hit the high-traffic zones.
- Check the Hollywood City Calendar: They occasionally host small community events or clean-up days here.
- Bring a Camera: The boardwalk section has some of the best unobstructed "natural" views in this part of the city.
Stan Goldman Memorial Park represents what public land should be. It isn't overly manicured or "fancy," but it’s functional, diverse, and heavily used. Whether you're there for the Hollywoof community, the concrete of the skate park, or a quiet walk on the boardwalk, it’s a slice of the real Hollywood—away from the boardwalk and the tourists.
To ensure your visit is seamless, verify the current park hours on the City of Hollywood's official website, as maintenance schedules can occasionally close specific sections of the dog park. If you plan on using the pavilions for a group larger than ten, submit your reservation request at least two weeks in advance through the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department. For those bringing pets, ensure your vaccination records are up to date before applying for the mandatory Hollywoof pass at the park office or online portal.