Jovita Idar's El Progreso Park

Features and Amenities

Sprawling across a generous 68.6 acres, this park offers plenty of room to breathe and play.

A long, paved walking trail meanders through the grounds - well-suited for your morning jog, afternoon stroll, or bike ride. The trail forms a large circle with a convenient cut-through, so you can easily customize your route whether you're training for a marathon or just enjoying a casual walk.

Soccer enthusiasts will appreciate the multiple soccer fields complete with bleachers where you can cheer on local matches or organize your own friendly game.

Brought your four-legged friend along? The dedicated dog park area provides a safe, enclosed space where your pup can run free and make some new canine companions while you chat with fellow dog lovers.

Family-Friendly Spaces

Kids can burn off energy at the park's playgrounds, offering a welcome outdoor alternative to screen time.

The well-placed picnic areas come equipped with benches and grills - ideal for everything from impromptu lunch breaks to planned family reunions. Cooking outdoors can be quite enjoyable on a nice Laredo day.

Restrooms are available around the grounds, so you can comfortably spend the whole day exploring what the park has to offer.

Additional Recreation Options

Grab a moment of tranquility at the fishing deck, where you can watch turtles and ducks go about their day in the water below. It's surprisingly meditative.

The basketball courts invite you to shoot some hoops, whether you're looking for a serious game or just practicing your three-pointers.

No gym membership? No problem. The park's outdoor gym lets you work out with a view much better than any indoor fitness center.

Bookworms will appreciate the free book exchange case - leave a novel you've finished and pick up something new for your reading list.

History and Significance

The park underwent a meaningful transformation in 2020 when it changed from Bartlett Park to honor Jovita Idar, a remarkable Mexican-American journalist, activist, and suffragist who called Laredo home.

Don't miss the striking mural of Jovita Idar created by a local artist. This beautiful artwork not only enhances the landscape but connects you to an important figure in Laredo's rich cultural history.

Access and Safety

The safely gated grounds and spacious parking lot make visiting stress-free, even during busy weekends.

You'll find the park conveniently located next to a city public pool - a nice bonus on hot Texas days, but note that the pool may operate under different management and hours.

While there are some trees providing welcome shade in the central areas, the park is still in the process of adding more greenery around the grounds. In the meantime, you might want to bring a hat or umbrella for sun protection during the warmer months.