Patterson Neighborhood Park

A Bit of History & Where to Find It

Tucked away in northeast Austin, Patterson Neighborhood Park spreads across 9 peaceful acres of green space. Since 1941, this little oasis has been bringing locals together - that's over 80 years of community memories in the making.

Cool Off in the Pool

During hot summer days, the swimming pool is particularly popular. Stretching 60 feet with depths ranging from 2'9" to 4'11", it's meant for both serious swimmers and those just looking to cool off. The little ones haven't been forgotten either - a circular baby pool sits nearby, thoughtfully covered by a pergola for extra shade. Both pools typically welcome visitors during the summer months.

Places to Play

Patterson Park houses two distinct playgrounds - a smaller one designed with under-5 toddlers in mind, and a more adventurous setup for the 5-10 crowd. Slides, swings, and climbing equipment give kids plenty of options to burn off energy. Across the park, open grassy areas and mature shade trees create natural spaces for picnics, lounging with a book, or just sprawling out on a blanket.

For the Sports Enthusiasts

The park offers several sports facilities. Well-maintained tennis courts sit alongside multiple basketball courts and a baseball diamond for organized games. Skaters can hit up the skate park featuring a multi-height half-pipe (though be aware it occasionally shows signs of wear). The open fields regularly host impromptu kickball games, and a walking trail circles the entire park for joggers and strollers alike.

Community at Its Heart

Patterson Park has a strong community element. The thriving community garden features 69 individual plots where you can spot everything from tomatoes to zinnias being lovingly tended by locals. Public art installations including colorful mosaic murals are scattered throughout, showcasing the neighborhood's creative spirit.

You'll find several covered picnic areas complete with tables and BBQ grills - ideal for birthday celebrations or Sunday family cookouts. Clean restrooms and several drinking water fountains across the grounds add to the convenience.

The Friends of Patterson Park community group deserves a special mention for their year-round efforts in organizing events and maintaining this popular green space. Many residents from East Austin neighborhoods regularly use this park for recreation and social activities.

Good to Know Before You Go

The park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 10PM. There is a parking lot, but spaces can fill up quickly during weekends and evenings. Dog owners will appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere with plenty of grassy spots for four-legged friends to explore, but do keep them leashed as per city rules.