Martin Luther King Jr. Park

Historical Background

Martin Luther King Jr. Park is an 18.51-acre public park located in the King Field neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota. The park was originally named Nicollet Field but was renamed in 1968 to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. after his assassination.

Recreation Center

The park features a recreation center that offers various programs and activities for the community. In 1992, a gymnasium was added to the recreation center, expanding its facilities.

Outdoor Facilities

Outdoor recreational facilities include baseball and softball fields, basketball and tennis courts, and a football field. For younger visitors, there is a playground and tot lot, as well as a wading pool for summer enjoyment.

Notable Features

A significant feature of the park is the "Freedom Form #2" sculpture by Daniel LaRue Johnson, which was donated in 1970 to honor Dr. King. The sculpture represents an outreach of friendship and was relocated and highlighted in 2011 to celebrate the 48th anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech.

In 2015, a new playground was installed that highlights numerous African-American inventors and their contributions to modern society.

Park Amenities

The park also includes walking paths, picnic areas, and gardens, providing spaces for relaxation and community gatherings. In 2016, solar panels were installed on the multipurpose room roof as part of ongoing improvements to the park's facilities.