Cooper Park

A Glimpse into History

Dating back to 1867, Cooper Park is Lincoln's oldest green space - a true living piece of local history. This 11.52-acre park in the South Salt Creek neighborhood near 6th and D Streets has been a community fixture for over 150 years.

Play Ball and More

If you're a baseball or softball enthusiast, you're in for a treat. Cooper Park houses one of the finest ballfields in Lincoln, complete with carefully maintained agri-lime infields. This field is officially designated as a Gold level Ballfield, reflecting its high-quality maintenance and condition.

The park's sporting history runs deeper than many realize. Back when it was still known as Lincoln Park, the grounds hosted the very first home game ever played by the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team. On October 31, 1891, Nebraska defeated Doane College 28 - 4 on this site - the park had not yet even been officially established as a public space at the time. One more game followed the next year, a 12 - 0 loss to Kansas, making Cooper Park an unlikely but genuine chapter in Cornhuskers history.

Beyond the Ballfield

The fun doesn't stop with baseball. Cooper Park's lighted facilities mean you can keep playing even as the day winds down. The park also offers sand volleyball and tennis courts.

The park features two well-maintained pickleball courts that have become quite popular with local players as the sport continues to grow. A paved pathway cuts through the center of the park, meant for your morning jog or an evening stroll. Just a heads up - there aren't any public restrooms here, so plan accordingly.

A Touch of Whimsy

One of the park's more charming features is the "Daydreams" statue, reminiscent of Dorothy and Toto from "The Wizard of Oz." Dedicated on July 12, 2002, this artistic addition brings a bit of literary magic to your park experience.

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Community Space

Cooper Park has been a gathering place for Lincoln residents for generations. As the oldest park in the city, it continues to be an important green space where neighbors meet, families spend time together, and people enjoy a bit of nature within the urban setting.