Bohanon Park

A Piece of Minneapolis History

Situated in the Lind-Bohanon neighborhood of Minneapolis, Bohanon Park sits on land with quite the backstory. Before becoming the green space we know today, this area was actually home to a city workhouse until its transformation into a park in 1935. In 1946, it was officially named after John C. Bohanon, one of the area's first settlers - a nice nod to local history.

The park got a major facelift in 1940 as part of a Works Progress Administration project. Over the years, the community has played a big role in shaping the park's development. In the 1950s, locals even helped fund expansions that brought in a wading pool, hockey rink, and shelter building - talk about neighborhood pride!

What You'll Find Today

The park offers options for both active recreation and relaxation. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the multiple sports fields, basketball courts, and freshly resurfaced tennis/pickleball courts that are ready for action.

When summer temperatures start climbing, the splash pad becomes the place to be for a cool-down. And don't pack away your outdoor gear when winter hits - the park transforms to include an ice rink, making it a year-round destination regardless of what Mother Nature has in store.

Kid-Friendly Spaces

Parents, rejoice! The park features two separate playgrounds that are clean and well-kept, giving the little ones plenty of room to burn off energy. These play areas are particularly hit with families and students from the neighboring elementary school.

Looking to enjoy lunch al fresco? Spacious picnic areas scattered across the grounds offer perfect spots for everything from casual lunches to family reunions. The green surroundings make for a pleasant dining atmosphere.

More Than Just a Park

Bohanon Park shares its borders with Jenny Lind Elementary School, creating a natural flow between learning and play. This convenient location makes it an easy choice for families with school-aged children.

In an unexpected twist of modern culture meeting traditional recreation, the park has become something of a hotspot for Pokémon Go players, with numerous game stops throughout. Beyond games and play, Bohanon holds an important place in neighborhood history and continues to benefit from Minneapolis's 20-Year Neighborhood Park Plan (NPP20), which helps ensure equitable maintenance across the city's parks.

From its historical roots to its diverse modern offerings, Bohanon Park reflects the evolution of public spaces that continue to meet community needs across changing seasons and generations.