Nolan Richardson Park

A Tribute to a Basketball Legend

Located in El Paso sits Nolan Richardson Park, named after Nolan Richardson - a hometown hero who made it big in the basketball world. This community space honors the legacy of El Paso's own coaching great while giving locals a place to play, relax, and connect.

Recreation Center

At the heart of the park stands the Nolan Richardson Recreation Center, a 15,117-square-foot facility built in 2000. The center offers programs and activities for everyone from kids to seniors.

The center is active year-round, providing a cool retreat from the Texas heat and a space for community gatherings.

Park Amenities

Step outside the recreation center and you can find plenty of reasons to soak up some sunshine. The park's outdoor spaces complement the indoor facilities perfectly, giving you room to stretch your legs and breathe fresh air.

The pickleball courts have developed quite the following - don't be surprised if you see the same friendly faces rallying back and forth on weekend mornings. If you're visiting with little ones, the well-maintained playgrounds offer safe spaces for both toddlers and older children to burn off energy.

You'll discover clean restrooms available when nature calls, and several picnic areas that make perfect spots for family lunches or catching up with friends over sandwiches and snacks.

Pet-Friendly Environment

Dog parents, rejoice! Nolan Richardson Park is dog-friendly, so your furry family members can join in on the fun. There's plenty of space for your four-legged friends to explore, however you'll want to keep them leashed and supervised during your visit.

Community Impact

This park is part of El Paso's broader commitment to creating accessible recreational spaces throughout the city - an initiative that's been gaining momentum since the early 2000s. Unlike some of the busier parks in town, Nolan Richardson Park typically offers a more peaceful experience, making it a favorite among locals looking to escape the crowds.

On quiet weekday afternoons, you might just find yourself with a picnic table all to yourself, or have an entire section of the park to enjoy in blissful tranquility - a rare treat in urban park settings.