Metcalfe Park

A Piece of Omaha History

Metcalfe Park got its name back in 1938, honoring Richard Lee Metcalfe, one of Omaha's former mayors. Interestingly, developers originally had plans to turn this land into residential lots, but the community effort succeeded in preserving it as a green space instead.

Where to Find This Intimate Space

Located in Omaha's Country Club area, this cozy neighborhood park spans about 4 acres. You'll come across it nestled between Decatur Street (north), Happy Hollow Avenue (south), 51st Street (west), and Country Club Avenue (east).

The park features a gently sloping green area that works well for impromptu soccer matches, lacrosse games, or just tossing a ball around. Look for the quirky "pencil tree" - a local landmark that often represents home base during neighborhood games.

If you're looking for a quick exercise loop, the sidewalk around the perimeter (not including the playground) stretches about 1/3 mile - meant for a quick stroll. Just a heads up: street parking is limited since the park is surrounded by homes.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The sandy playground area is popular with the younger crowd, especially kids up to about 7 years old. You can find a nice variety of swings including traditional swings, baby swings, and saucer swings to accommodate children of all ages.

For the little ones, there's a toddler playground with two shorter slides, while older kids can enjoy the larger playground with two taller slides. The spinning caged seat is particularly popular - you might have to wait your turn for that one!

A Community Effort

In 2010, the park got a major facelift thanks to local residents (including neighborhood kids!), businesses, and the Hollis and Helen Baright Foundation, who all pitched in to raise funds. By 2012, the park boasted new playground equipment, a rain garden, picnic tables, and benches.

The playground now bears the name Hollis and Helen Baright Playground, after longtime residents who lived across from the park. People who've been visiting for decades often comment on how much the park has improved with its updated facilities.

Thoughtful Amenities

The park features several handicap-friendly picnic tables specifically designed for wheelchair users. You'll find these tables scattered near the playground, with most positioned in the shade of the park's abundant trees - meant for summer picnics.

Dog parents will appreciate the dog waste bag dispensers and plentiful trash cans within the grounds. While there's no fenced dog area, many locals enjoy walking their four-legged friends around the perimeter path.

Recent Upgrades

The community spirit behind Metcalfe Park continues to thrive. In 2014, a Little Free Library was added, which evolved into something even more meaningful during the 2020 pandemic - representing a small food pantry for neighbors in need.

Cyclists got a boost in 2018 with the addition of a Dero FixIt bike repair stand and tire pump - a thoughtful touch for those biking through the neighborhood.