A small city park built around the Francis Gate, a 21-ton wooden flood-control gate raised over the Pawtucket Canal's Guard Locks in 1850. It's a quiet historic stop with paved paths and canal views rather than a large recreation park.
What to expect
Entry fee
Lowell has no parking sticker program for its parks.
Dogs
Lowell requires all dogs on public property, including parks, playgrounds and cemeteries, to be leashed, except in areas the City Council has designated for off-leash use.
Hours
Lowell's parks are generally open dawn to dusk year round, with actual hours varying by daylight, field lighting, and any permits from the Board of Parks. That's the town default unless posted otherwise.
Accessibility
Paved paths present; no ADA-specific accommodations confirmed
Walking
Allowed Year-round
Fishing
Allowed Year-round, along the Pawtucket Canal
Managed by
City of Lowell Department of Parks & Recreation; historical interpretation provided by Lowell National Historical Park (NPS)
978-970-4173 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Walking Path
Paved and grass paths through the 5-acre park
The Great Gate historical marker
Erected by Lowell National Historical Park / NPS, standing between the Great Gate and the Lock House
Not here
No restrooms
No restrooms, picnic tables, or playground equipment on site
Common questions
What is the Francis Gate?
It's a 21-ton wooden gate built in 1850 by engineer James B. Francis over the Pawtucket Canal's Guard Locks, designed to protect downtown Lowell's mills from Merrimack River floods. It's nicknamed the Great Gate, or Francis' Folly, because few believed it would work.
Is Francis Gate Park dog-friendly?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome and owners are expected to clean up after them.
Is there an entry fee at Francis Gate Park?
Lowell has no parking sticker program for its parks.
Can I bring my dog to Francis Gate Park?
Lowell requires all dogs on public property, including parks, playgrounds and cemeteries, to be leashed, except in areas the City Council has designated for off-leash use.
Is Francis Gate Park wheelchair accessible?
Paved paths present; no ADA-specific accommodations confirmed
What rules should I know at Francis Gate Park?
The Great Gate is a 21-ton flood-control structure suspended over the Guard Locks; canal levels can shift when the gate or nearby locks operate.