Horton Park

Horton Park is a small urban park located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, at the intersection of West Minnehaha Avenue and Hamline Avenue North. Established in 1895, this compact green space spans approximately three acres and serves as a valuable amenity for the surrounding community, including residents of the nearby Hamline Hi-Rise public housing and students from the adjacent Friends School of Minnesota and Hamline University.

The park is primarily designed to be picnic-friendly, with its western and northern sections dedicated to recreational activities. These areas feature benches, shaded spots, and picnic tables, providing visitors with comfortable spaces to relax and enjoy outdoor meals. The remaining land is devoted to open lawns, creating a versatile space for various activities.

What sets Horton Park apart is its role as a small arboretum. Following the loss of many elm trees to Dutch Elm Disease, the park was repurposed to house a diverse collection of tree species. Today, it boasts over 60 different tree species and cultivars, making it an excellent resource for botany enthusiasts and those interested in urban forestry. This aspect of the park not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also serves an educational purpose, allowing visitors to observe and learn about various tree species in an urban setting.

Horton Park's compact size and thoughtful design make it an ideal spot for passive recreation, community gatherings, and as a green respite in the urban landscape of Saint Paul. Its combination of picnic areas, open spaces, and arboretum features creates a multifunctional public space that caters to diverse community needs.