Matthews Park

Your Neighborhood Escape

Named after Charles E. Matthews, who championed local causes, Matthews Park has been part of Minneapolis's Seward neighborhood since 1969. The park spreads across 10 acres of community-focused green space, and what you'll notice right away are the gorgeous tall trees that create natural canopies well-suited for afternoon strolls or morning jogs when you need to clear your head.

It's one of those perfect spots where nature and recreation blend together, creating a little urban oasis that works for pretty much anyone who stops by.

Play Areas for All Ages

If you're bringing kids along, there's plenty for them to do. The park has three separate playgrounds that were all refreshed in 2017, each designed for different age groups. They've got accessible pathways too, so everyone can join in the fun regardless of mobility challenges.

Come summer, the recently renovated wading pool becomes the neighborhood hotspot. The splash pool opens once school lets out in June - a welcome relief during those sticky Minnesota summer days.

Sports for Every Season

Athletic types will feel right at home here. The park doesn't skimp on options with its soccer fields, softball field, sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, and basketball courts. What's nice is that the tennis and basketball facilities stay open year-round (weather permitting, of course - this is Minnesota after all).

A fountain feature creates water curtains at the park's wading pool

Photo: Fibonacci Blue (CC BY 4.0)

Winter Wonderland

One of the park's quirky features is its man-made sledding hill. Originally created as a buffer between the park and nearby businesses, it's evolved into a winter highlight for locals. Just note that sledding here is unofficial and at your own risk - but that doesn't stop the neighborhood from showing up after a good snowfall.

When temperatures drop, the park transforms with an ice rink and hockey facilities that typically stay maintained throughout winter. It's like having a completely different park depending on when you visit.

A teal car sits in the playground, with shaded parkland beyond

Photo: Fibonacci Blue (CC BY 4.0)

Nature Moments

Wrapping around the hill and recreation areas, you'll come across peaceful gardens and a gentle walking path that's great for when you need a moment of zen. The park's towering trees create shady spots in summer and frame beautiful seasonal changes year-round. If you're on wheels, bike paths weave around the grounds.

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The Recreation Center Bonus

Next to Seward Montessori School sits the Matthews Recreation Center, adding indoor options to your park experience. Inside you can find a gym, craft room, meeting spaces, and a community kitchen - all air-conditioned (which you'll appreciate during humid summers). The center's great for events and even birthday parties.

You can find public restrooms available during regular hours, plus various community programs all year long. It's this indoor-outdoor combo that makes the park work in any weather.

Community Heart

Beyond just recreation, Matthews Park participates in the summer meals program and hosts events that bring neighbors together, reinforcing its role as a community cornerstone.

What makes this park appealing isn't just its facilities - it's how it balances natural beauty with practical amenities in a neighborhood setting.