Selena S. Butler Park

A Historic Retreat in Atlanta

Tucked away in Atlanta's Auburn Avenue District, Selena S. Butler Park spreads across 3.5 acres of community green space. The park sits nestled between Williams Holmes Borders Sr. Drive, Hilliard Street, and Tanner Street - just a stone's throw from the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. You're literally walking through a neighborhood that breathes African-American history.

The Woman Behind the Name

Ever wonder who Selena S. Butler was? Born in 1872 and living until 1964, Butler wasn't just any Georgian - she was a powerhouse community activist and educator who helped found the National Parent-Teacher Association. Talk about leaving a legacy!

A Fresh Start

In 2011, the park got a much-needed makeover. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) joined forces with Atlanta's Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs and the Atlanta Housing Authority to breathe new life into this community space. The revitalization kicked off on June 8, 2011, and by November 2, the park was ready to show off its new face.

What's There to Do?

If you're looking to break a sweat or just chill out, the park offers several options. The tennis courts are open to the public (though they might be showing their age a bit). Basketball enthusiasts can shoot some hoops at the basketball courts, meant for pickup games or solo practice.

A charming gazebo offers a shady retreat and doubles as a gathering spot for community events. During those sweltering Atlanta summers, the park sometimes is a cooling center - a welcome refuge from the heat.

Creature Comforts

Planning a cookout? The park's grilling areas and picnic spaces make it ideal for family get-togethers or hanging out with friends. The community gardens add a touch of green tranquility to the urban landscape.

The park has a laid-back vibe and open layout, providing a quiet space for downtown dwellers looking to escape the concrete jungle, if only for an afternoon.

More Than a Park

The renovation wasn't just about making things look pretty - it was about improving life for everyone in the neighborhood, from kids to seniors. The NRPA even brought in researchers from Appalachian State University and East Carolina University to study how the revamped park would connect the community and boost the area's health and vitality.

In a city that's constantly evolving, Selena S. Butler Park connects visitors to history while providing a space for creating new memories.