Roosevelt Park

A Green Oasis with Historic Roots

Located in Albuquerque, Roosevelt Park spreads across 14 acres south of Coal Avenue between Spruce and Maple Streets. The park rose from humble beginnings in the 1930s. Between 1933 and 1935, what was once a sandy arroyo filled with trash was transformed into the lush landscape we enjoy today, thanks to Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs.

The park's charming "Frontier Pastoral" design came from local talent Clarence Edmund "Bud" Hollied, who created a natural sanctuary with rolling hills, wandering paths, and beautiful stone terracing.

Nature's Playground

The park features a unique layout. With irregular hollows and about 50 feet of elevation difference between its highest and lowest points, much of Roosevelt Park sits below street level, creating a sunken garden effect that offers a retreat from city life.

The northern section is framed by city streets, while the southern portion is enclosed by a paved drive (now closed to traffic). These rolling hills aren't just pretty to look at - they make for some great walking and gorgeous views of the surrounding area.

Under the Canopy

The park's Siberian elm trees reach heights of up to 80 feet, creating a natural ceiling overhead. The landscape is further enhanced by juniper, blue spruce, and catalpa trees, with bushes dotted throughout the grounds.

When the park was first developed, more than 2,250 trees and shrubs were planted - quite the transformation from its arroyo days! Keep an eye out for the Works Project Administration stonework in the retaining walls and picnic areas - these details are living pieces of American history.

Something for Everyone

The park naturally divides into two main sections. Head to the northern area if you're looking for a relaxing afternoon with picnic tables, benches, and a playground for the kids. Disc golf enthusiasts flock to the southern section for its challenging 18-hole course that makes clever use of the natural terrain.

A walking path circles the entire park, excellent for a morning jog or an evening stroll. And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome too - you can find pet waste stations across the grounds to keep things clean and enjoyable for everyone.

A Piece of Living History

Roosevelt Park isn't just a pretty face - it's officially recognized on the New Mexico State Register of Cultural Properties and the National Register of Historic Places. It also holds the distinction of being a protected Albuquerque Historic Landmark.

The park represents New Deal-era landscape design in the Southwest. In 2006-2007, it received some much-needed TLC with renovations that improved safety and facilities while preserving its historic character.

Roosevelt Park continues to host local events and provides a shaded space for picnics and relaxation in this historic green area.