Memorial Park

A Piece of El Paso History

Situated in the heart of El Paso, Memorial Park stretches across 32 acres of surprisingly hilly terrain. Originally known as Veterans Memorial Park when it was established in 1920, this century-old green space has been a treasured fixture of the community ever since.

You'll find the park nestled in the Manhattan Heights neighborhood, an area with its own historical significance - it earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places back in 1980.

Not Your Average Flat Park

What might surprise first-time visitors is Memorial Park's distinctly rolling landscape. These hills aren't just random - they're actually remnants of a former copper smelter that operated here from 1899 to 1908. This unique topography comes with a bonus: some pretty impressive views of El Paso and the majestic Franklin Mountains in the distance.

The park blends both structured and natural landscaping elements, with mature trees providing welcome shade during those hot Texas days and lush green lawns that somehow manage to stay vibrant year-round.

Growing Through the Decades

Memorial Park hasn't remained static over its long history. The 1920s and early 1930s brought major improvements - extensive grading work, new plantings, and the addition of recreational facilities that began shaping the park into what we see today.

If you're into landscape architecture, you might appreciate knowing that renowned designer George E. Kessler had a hand in the park's development, contributing to the 1925 City Plan for El Paso.

Touchstones from the Past

As you wander through the park, keep an eye out for historical spaces like the stone arch bridge dating back to 1922. You'll also notice various masonry structures built during the Works Progress Administration (WPA) era - remnants of America's Depression-era public works programs.

The park's rose garden offers a tranquil spot to pause and enjoy a moment of color and fragrance - a little oasis within the larger green space.

Something for Everyone

Whether you're looking to break a sweat or just relax, Memorial Park offers plenty of options. The tennis courts are well-kept, complete with benches for spectators and lights for evening matches.

If you've got kids in tow, the children's playground features all the essentials - slides, swings, and climbing equipment with wood chips below for softer landings. The adjacent picnic areas make this spot ideal for birthday parties or casual family get-togethers.

Need a swim? The Memorial Park Aquatic Center offers an indoor pool that's great for serious lap swimmers and splashing families alike, with admission prices that won't break the bank.

Where Community Happens

This space functions as a community gathering place for El Paso residents. Year-round, it hosts everything from car shows to holiday celebrations and the much-anticipated Art in the Park festival.

On any given day, you'll see folks spreading blankets under shady trees for picnics, fitness enthusiasts using the hills for an extra workout challenge, and people of all ages walking or jogging the one-mile path that circles the park. Dog owners particularly appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere.

Looking to the Future While Honoring the Past

In recent years, El Paso has taken steps to ensure Memorial Park retains its charm while meeting modern needs. The city has developed master plans that aim to introduce improvements while preserving the historical elements that make the park special.

This thoughtful approach helps preserve Memorial Park for future generations.

Worth Noting

Bookworms will appreciate the Memorial Park Library branch located right on the grounds. Beyond books, it offers a clean restroom option - always a plus when spending the day outdoors, especially with children.

And if you're a dog parent, you'll be happy to know the park is decidedly dog-friendly, with waste bag stations conveniently placed throughout, making those daily walks with your four-legged friend that much more enjoyable.