City-Brooks Community Park

Located in the cozy Old South neighborhood of Baton Rouge, Brooks City Park is a place of deep historical significance and a welcoming atmosphere. This public park, covering about four acres, is an important landmark on the map of Louisiana in the USA, combining outdoor recreation opportunities with a memory of significant social changes from the past.

The park was named after Reverend Willie K. Brooks, whose efforts in the 1950s helped create this space for local residents. The crown jewel of the area is traditionally considered to be the Brooks Pool, which opened in 1949. Since its founding, it has been more than just a place to swim—it became a true community hub where people could connect and relax away from the city bustle.

Today, the park is a green space ideal for peaceful walks and family leisure. Thanks to its location next to McKinley Middle Academic Magnet School, it remains a lively and dynamic spot where history meets the modern rhythm of city life.

For more information about events and pool availability, you can contact the administration through the BREC management organization. Below are the main contact details for planning your visit.

The main draw for visitors during the summer remains the Brooks Swimming Pool. Although its dimensions have changed slightly over time, the pool still invites guests to cool off on hot Louisiana days. It's a great spot for those looking for active time in the water or just to relax by the poolside and take in the lively atmosphere.

For those who prefer a quieter pace, the park offers pleasant spaces for socializing and recreation. You can enjoy a small picnic on the grass or take a stroll, soaking in the historical spirit of a place that served as a cornerstone for the local community for decades.

History buffs will appreciate the chance to see a site that has maintained its significance since the mid-20th century. A visit to the park is not just about relaxation but also an opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of Baton Rouge, imagining the community events and celebrations held here by past generations.

The attraction is quite easy to reach from any part of the city. Brooks City Park is located at the intersection of Pear Street and Eddie Robinson Sr. Drive, right next to McKinley Middle Academic Magnet School.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use the city bus routes that pass through the Old South Baton Rouge area. For a faster and more comfortable trip, you can call a taxi or use ride-sharing services directly from the city center—the ride takes only a few minutes.

Car owners can navigate to the address 1515 Dalrymple Dr. The park is conveniently accessible from the city's main administrative sites, making it an easy and pleasant addition to your tour of Baton Rouge.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the Civil Rights Movement in the USA. In the 1930s and 1940s, the city's only public pool was accessible exclusively to white residents. To address this injustice and ensure the safety of Black children, who often drowned in dangerous bodies of water, Reverend Willie K. Brooks founded the United Negro Recreation Association (UNRA) in 1945.

Thanks to the association's efforts and donations from citizens, the park and pool officially opened in 1949. This event was a major celebration: a parade was organized in honor of the opening, and there were so many people wanting to swim that the pool had to operate in shifts. The entrance fee in those years was just 25 cents, and the location quickly became a vital social hub for the community.

In 1953, the park came under the management of the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge (BREC). A key condition for the land transfer was the commitment to use it exclusively for the benefit of the local community. For decades, Brooks City Park has remained a symbol of unity, where families would travel from even remote parts of Louisiana to spend time in a safe and friendly environment.

For a general tour of the park grounds and a brief look at its history, you might need about 30–45 minutes. This is enough time to stroll through the walkways and soak in the atmosphere of a place that was once the heart of the community.

However, if you plan to visit the swimming pool during the warmer months, you should set aside 2-3 hours or even a full half-day. A visit to the park can easily be combined with exploring nearby Baton Rouge attractions to make your outing as productive as possible.

The park is open to the public daily, making it easy for visitors to include it in their itinerary. The schedule remains consistent throughout the week:

From Monday to Sunday, the park grounds are accessible from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please note that pool hours may differ from the general park schedule and depend on the season.

After a walk through Brooks Park, it's worth spending some time exploring the surroundings, as Baton Rouge is rich in interesting locations. Proximity to historical sites and museums allows you to create a packed cultural itinerary without spending much time on travel.

Within a few kilometers of the park, you will find both majestic government buildings and unique open-air museum complexes. Below is a list of interesting places located nearby: