Some of the most unique features of Ariel-Foundation Park are the spectacular earthen terraces.
Inspired by the works of American landscape architect Charles Jencks, the terraces add a dramatic vertical dimension to the landscape. Curvilinear reflecting ponds surround the terraced hillsides, and spiral paths lead up to the terrace peaks for bird’s-eye views of the park.
Another breathtaking aspect of the terraces is the River of Glass. It pays homage to PPG Works No. 11, honoring the significant contributions of generations of family members who worked for PPG over its near 70 years of operation in Mount Vernon. PPG Works No. 11 was known for being on the cutting edge of flat glass manufacturing and was one of the largest glass-making factories in the world. Flowing down one of the hillsides near the Schnormeier Events Center and Tree of Life Labyrinth, it is fashioned with vibrant shades of blue and green glass, called “cullet.” These mesmerizing glass chunks are the discarded remnants of PPG’s work as they pulled continuous sheets of glass, known as a “ribbon of glass.”
As part of the 10th anniversary of the development of Ariel-Foundation Park, the Friends of Ariel-Foundation Park Conservancy revitalized the creation in 2025, adding many more years of life and enjoyment to a very special park attribute.
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My kids like to climb up and run down the grassy paths.
