Mattocks Park

Mattocks Park is a small neighborhood park located in the Macalester-Groveland area of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Spanning 3.69 acres, this pocket park is designed to fit seamlessly into the existing street grid, bordered by James Avenue to the south, Palace Avenue to the north, South Davern Street to the west, and South Macalester Street to the east.

The park is surrounded by rows of tall pine trees, which provide shade and enhance the sense of containment while allowing the park to blend into the residential neighborhood. Despite its small size, Mattocks Park offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

The park is divided into two distinct sections. The eastern half, bordering Macalester Street, features a large grassy field where neighbors often play catch with their dogs. This area also includes a baseball dugout for more formal sports activities. The western half of the park, adjacent to Davern Street, houses the playground, swing set, half-court basketball court, and tennis court.

Mattocks Park is particularly popular among local families. The playground area often features personal toys left by regular visitors, indicating a sense of community trust. On pleasant weekday afternoons, the park comes alive with activity, primarily attracting mothers and children. However, the park's usage varies significantly based on the time of day and weather conditions.

During the summer months, the City of Saint Paul enhances the park's amenities by providing a portable toilet to accommodate visitors' needs. The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, offering ample time for community members to enjoy its facilities.

While Mattocks Park lacks some amenities found in larger parks, such as permanent restroom facilities or extensive hiking trails, it serves as a valuable community space for the Macalester-Groveland neighborhood, providing a blend of recreational opportunities and green space in a residential setting.