Beltrami Park

History and Heritage

Beltrami Park is a charming neighborhood park located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This park is steeped in local history and surrounded by the vibrant Beltrami neighborhood, known for its Italian-American heritage.

Named after the Italian explorer Giacomo Constantino Beltrami in 1948, the park was initially called Maple Hill Cemetery before its transformation into a community space. A bronze plaque honoring Beltrami still stands within the park as a tribute to his legacy.

Natural Features

The park is a shaded retreat, with dense woodland covering much of its area, providing a cooling canopy during warmer months. A variety of recreational and communal spaces make it a focal point for residents and visitors alike.

Recreational Facilities

Beltrami Park is home to unique bocce ball courts, a nod to the neighborhood's Italian roots, which are popular during summer evenings. In addition to this, the park offers a mix of sports facilities, including basketball and sand volleyball courts, soccer and softball fields.

Children can enjoy an imaginative train-themed playground with a separate tot lot for younger children. A wading pool is also available for cooling off in the summer.

Recent Improvements and Amenities

Recent improvements to the park have included resurfaced basketball courts (completed in 2015) and the construction of a timber-frame picnic pavilion in 2016. The park's amenities make it a great destination for families and gatherings.

Nestled within its grounds is a Little Free Library, encouraging community engagement through reading. For those interested in walking or cycling, the park includes paths for quiet strolls or activity.

The inclusion of grills, restrooms, and seating areas enhances its usability for picnics and events. Beltrami Park not only serves as a space for recreation but also as a piece of living history.