Sibley Park

A Green Haven for Everyone

Positioned in the Standish neighborhood, Sibley Park is a charming 7.96-acre retreat that functions as both a gathering spot and peaceful escape. Managed by the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, this hilly green space combines natural beauty with modern amenities for visitors of all ages.

The park's rolling landscape isn't just pretty to look at - it also gives your daily walk a bit of a challenge if you're looking to add some intensity to your routine.

Natural Splendor

Wandering through Sibley Park, you'll discover scenic paths bordered by roses and wildflowers that create a peaceful backdrop for your stroll. The well-maintained walkways branch into little side trails, meant for those moments when you want to venture slightly off the beaten path.

It's popular with bird enthusiasts, dog walkers, and families who enjoy the paths that wind completely around the park. There's something calming about making a full loop while surrounded by nature, even in the heart of the city.

Kid-Friendly Fun

At the heart of Sibley is a recently updated playground area popular with families. The 2024 renovation introduced accessible play structures that everyone can enjoy, including the park's newest stars: two ziplines that never fail to draw excited squeals from children. The youngest visitors haven't been forgotten, with a dedicated area featuring two infant swings designed just for them.

The playground offers a rope climbing structure and accessible swing options. What's particularly thoughtful is how the design works around the park's mature trees, preserving the natural shade while adding modern play equipment.

On hot days, many visitors head to the zero-entry splash pad. Starting at ground level and gradually deepening to 1'10", it's great for children of various ages and comfort levels. Some sections are shaded by large umbrellas, and parents can relax at covered picnic tables outside the fenced area while keeping an eye on the water fun.

Sports for All Seasons

If you're more sports-minded, you'll appreciate the basketball courts, soccer field, tennis courts, and baseball/softball fields. The baseball facilities are well-maintained and host youth tournaments and league games throughout the season.

When winter arrives, Sibley transforms. The gentle slopes become natural sledding hills, and two ice rinks appear - one designated as a hockey rink where you'll often spot youth games in progress, and another open for casual skating. Even in snowy months, the walking paths remain cleared, allowing for year-round outdoor activity.

Community Connection

The Sibley Recreation Center is the park's indoor hub, offering craft and meeting rooms along with multipurpose spaces for community gatherings. During winter, it transforms into a cozy warming house for skaters. The lobby features games to enjoy, however it's worth noting that hours can change with the seasons.

The park embraces community in other ways too - through its community garden, a Little Free Library where you can swap books, and scattered picnic areas along the park's perimeter. During summer months, the Minneapolis Park Board's meals program provides free lunches for children under 18.

Practical Details

Sibley Park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10PM. When nature calls, restrooms can be found inside the recreation center, accessible from both inside and outside the building. While there is a parking lot on site, it's relatively modest in size and tends to fill quickly during tournaments and popular events, so arriving early is always a good idea.