Elmwood Park

A Park With Deep Roots

Dating back to 1889, Elmwood Park stretches across 216.4 acres, standing as one of Omaha's most expansive green spaces. It wasn't just randomly thrown together - the park was thoughtfully designed by Horace Cleveland, a landscape architect who knew his craft, as part of Omaha's broader park and boulevard system.

The name? It comes from the majestic elm trees that once dominated the landscape. Throughout its lifetime, this park has worn many hats. In the early 1900s, locals would trek here to collect water from a popular spring, and later, it welcomed travelers with an auto tourist camp.

Nature's Playground

Take a walk through Elmwood and you'll encounter a little bit of everything: dense wooded areas, open meadows, and the gentle flow of Spring Creek. This diversity creates distinct mini-environments throughout the park.

If you're feeling adventurous, the park connects to Omaha's larger trail network, ideal for extending your outdoor time. The well-maintained paved paths that wind through the grounds make it a go-to spot for runners, joggers, and those just looking to stretch their legs.

Make sure to check out the Spring Grotto area - it's a cozy location. With its lush greenery and distinctive architecture, it's no wonder this peaceful nook has become a favorite backdrop for photographers capturing family portraits.

Recreation for Everyone

No matter if you're eight or eighty, there's something here for you. The playground has more than just swings and slides - you'll find seesaws, merry-go-rounds, and jungle gyms. What makes it special is the community spirit: you'll find shared toddler trikes, balance bikes, and sand toys that little ones can use during their visit.

More of a sports enthusiast? The tennis courts, basketball courts, and baseball fields are available for sports enthusiasts. Golf lovers can take advantage of the 18-hole public course that stays busy throughout the playing season.

When summer temperatures climb, the swimming pool is a welcome place to cool off. And those wide-open grassy areas? They're just waiting for your frisbee game, impromptu soccer match, or afternoon picnic blanket.

Gathering Spots

Elmwood Park offers plenty of social spaces. You'll come across picnic areas with tables, benches, and grills scattered throughout, fantastic for small gatherings. Planning something bigger? The Elmwood Park Pavilion provides covered seating that works wonderfully for larger events or company outings.

Several shelters dot the park grounds, offering shade and structure for gatherings. These spaces fill up quickly during the warmer months - they're particularly popular for birthday parties and family reunions.

Community Heart

Sitting right next to the University of Nebraska at Omaha campus, the park is a natural escape for students needing a study break or a peaceful moment between classes.

More than just a pretty space, Elmwood Park functions as a community hub. During the year, it hosts notable events including the popular Shakespeare on the Green festival, bringing free outdoor theater performances to Omaha during summer evenings.

The annual Earth Day celebration draws environmentally minded folks together in a fitting natural setting. Combined with nearby Memorial Park, this area is one of Omaha's significant green spaces where people can enjoy nature and recreation.