The McDowell County Recreation Center & Skate Park is located on the corner of West Court Street and Academy Street and includes a skate park, basketball court, tennis courts, playground, swimming pool and ballfields. The skate park was built by the City of Marion in 2005. The County Recreation Park is open year-round and is the central location of the County’s Parks and Recreation Department.  For more information about McDowell County Parks & Recreation facilities and programs contact (828) 652-3001.

The Maple Leaf Ballfields are located off of Finley Road in Marion and were acquired by the County several years ago from a private developer. With four baseball/softball fields located on the site, the park offers valuable opportunities for league sports and other group related activity..

The YMCA is a non-profit organization offering programs and activities for all ages. The Corpening Memorial YMCA was established in 2003, and it is located just off West Henderson Street at 348 Grace Corpening Drive in Marion next to the McDowell County Senior Center.    To learn more visit YMCA of Western North Carolina www.ymcawnc.org or call (828) 659-9622.

The McDowell Arts Council Association (MACA) is a non-profit organization established in 1972 to promote local artists and provide cultural enrichment in the community.  MACA is located at 50 S. Main Street in downtown Marion and provides art and music classes, teaching opportunities, book reading and lectures, theater and more.  For more information visit their website at www.mcdowellarts.org or call (828) 652-8610.