Frank & Judy O'Bannon Soccer Park

Historic Significance

Found in the historic Old Northside neighborhood of Indianapolis, this 17-acre recreational space is a gathering spot for soccer fans and locals alike. Originally known as Old Northside Soccer Park, it was renamed in 2003 to honor Frank O'Bannon, the late Governor, and his wife Judy - leaving a lasting legacy in the community.

Location & Accessibility

The park sits right along the southern stretch of the Monon Trail, making it super accessible for people on foot or bikes. Its proximity to downtown Indianapolis means you can easily swing by whether you're a local or just visiting the city.

One of the park's little perks? A gorgeous view of the Indianapolis skyline. While you're there, take a moment to check out the old train display that sits alongside the Monon Trail - a nice nod to the area's history.

Recent Improvements

The park underwent a major renovation that wrapped up in 2023. This expansion added new features to the park.

The 2023 makeover introduced a splash pad and two new playground areas - great additions for families with kids.

Soccer Facilities

At its heart, this park stays true to its soccer roots. With five soccer fields available for rent, both adult leagues and youth groups can get their game on.

The park hosts various programs including Tab Soccer and the Hispanic Center's summer youth soccer league. The fields are kept in good shape and welcome players of all skill levels - even the littlest kickers just finding their footing in the sport.

Recreational Opportunities

While soccer might be the headliner, there's plenty more to do here. The playgrounds are thoughtfully divided for different age groups, featuring climbing structures and swings with cushy, safety-focused surfaces below.

On hot days, the splash pad becomes the place to be, working on a simple push-button system that runs for about ten minutes at a time. It's fantastic for younger children needing a cool-down.

You'll also find a basketball court and paved paths connecting to the Monon Trail - ideal for a walk, jog, or bike ride. Many locals make this their go-to spot for daily dog walks.

Amenities

Need a break? Several covered picnic tables near the playground areas offer shaded spots to recharge or enjoy a packed lunch. The park provides indoor restroom facilities with changing tables that are generally well-maintained.

While there's a lot to love here, note that parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially during soccer games and busy hours. If you're planning a visit, arriving early is your best bet - otherwise, you might end up walking up to two blocks from overflow parking areas.