South Park

A Piece of Billings History

Situated in the heart of Billings, South Park is a piece of the city's past. This 16-acre green space has been part of the South Side community since 1882, making it one of the oldest and largest parks in Billings.

For over a century, locals have gathered here to create memories, celebrating everything from quiet afternoon picnics to vibrant community festivities.

Play Your Heart Out

Whether you're a sports enthusiast or just looking to burn some energy, South Park offers plenty of options. The grounds include several baseball diamonds where you can catch impromptu games on summer evenings, alongside basketball courts and tennis courts for those who prefer their recreation with a bit more bounce.

Kids will make a beeline for the playground, which features equipment designed for various age groups. The play sets offer enough interesting features to keep little ones engaged long enough for you to finish that coffee you brought along.

And if you're feeling a bit old-school, why not try your hand at the horseshoe pits? There's something delightfully nostalgic about the clank of metal on metal as you aim for that perfect ringer.

Make a Splash

The park's swimming pool comes with its own fascinating story. Opening back in 1914, it once proudly held the title of the "largest city owned pool in the West." The pool's history reflects America's complicated past - for decades, people of color were restricted to swimming only on Sundays.

Today, the pool is open to everyone, and swimming is completely free. Lifeguards keep watch during operating hours, making it a safe spot for cooling off during Montana's toasty summers.

Not in the mood for a full swim? The modern splash pad offers a fun alternative where you can enjoy the refreshing mist without committing to getting fully soaked.

The Heart of Community

At the center of South Park stands a charming gazebo that has witnessed countless community moments since it was first planned in 1913. Though the original structure was replaced in 2012, its role as the park's focal point remains unchanged.

This is where you can find local bands playing on warm evenings, community events unfolding throughout the seasons, and perhaps even a weekend farmers market or classic car show. During holidays, the park transforms for special celebrations - keep an eye out for Easter egg hunts that bring families flocking to the grounds.

Room to Breathe

Sometimes the best park days are the quiet ones. South Park's generous green spaces and mature trees create perfect pockets of shade for afternoon reading sessions or peaceful picnics. When Billings' summer heat kicks in, you'll appreciate the cool refuge these leafy giants provide.

A network of trails meanders through the grounds, offering pleasant paths for your morning walk or evening stroll. The well-maintained walkways attract regular visitors from throughout the neighborhood.

Gather 'Round

Community happens around tables, and South Park offers plenty of spots to break bread together. Picnic areas featuring aluminum tables and barbecue grills make it easy to plan anything from a casual lunch to a full-blown family reunion.

During special events, you might spot food trucks parked nearby, adding some culinary variety to your park experience.

As one of the oldest green spaces in Billings, South Park has quietly witnessed the city's evolution through good times and challenging ones. Today, it remains an important green space for the South Side neighborhood, just as it has been for over a century.