Bennett Park

Bennett Park is a scenic 34-acre urban park located in the northern part of Hibbing. Established back in the 1920s, it is one of the oldest and most significant public spaces in this part of the USA.

This place harmoniously combines a rich history with modern recreational infrastructure. Originally, the park was much larger and even included a zoo, but today it has been repurposed into a cozy area for walks, family picnics, and sports, remaining the heart of the city's social life.

For tourists, Bennett Park is interesting for its authentic American small-town atmosphere and unique sports facilities. Whether you are a history buff or a family with children, everyone will find something to enjoy among the well-kept alleys and shady Minnesota trees.

To inquire about events or pavilion rentals at Bennett Park, you can use the following contact details for the City of Hibbing administration:

The park offers excellent facilities for active leisure. One of its crown jewels is Al Nyberg Field—a baseball stadium with classic wooden stands where local teams regularly play. Additionally, it is home to the Hibbing Bocce Club, which offers access to indoor and outdoor bocce courts, with the outdoor courts being free for anyone to use.

Families with children should definitely check out the modern playground and the popular splash pad—a water zone with sprinklers that is a real lifesaver in the summer heat. Another important feature is the Miracle Field, a specially designed baseball field for people with disabilities.

For those who prefer a quieter pace, there are trails for walking and cycling, which transform into excellent cross-country skiing tracks in the winter. Numerous pavilions and picnic tables surrounded by ornamental plantings make Bennett Park an ideal spot for an outdoor lunch with friends or family.

Finding this green corner in the northern part of the city is quite easy: it is located at 520 E 13th St, at the intersection of East 3rd Avenue and 13th Street. If you are traveling by car, it is most convenient to take highways MN-37 or US-169, which lead directly into Hibbing. Free parking is provided for visitors on the park grounds.

For those staying in the central part of the city, a walk to the park can be a pleasant addition to your itinerary—the distance is only about 1 kilometer. Since public transportation in small Minnesota towns is limited, a taxi or a rental car is the most comfortable way to get around.

The history of Bennett Park began in 1920, just a quarter-century after the city itself was founded. At that time, the territory was nearly twice its current size, covering 60 acres. It was a true entertainment hub of the era: it featured a zoo, a large swimming pool, and even its own greenhouse.

In 1978, the park underwent a major renovation, shifting its focus toward sports and family recreation. The zoo and greenhouse were removed to make room for professional baseball fields and courts for traditional games like bocce. Despite the changes, the park has retained its historical charm, and its Al Nyberg Field is still considered one of the most beautiful wooden sports structures in the region.

A significant milestone in recent history was the opening of the Miracle Field in 2014. This project, realized in partnership with the Minnesota Twins baseball club, allowed children with disabilities to fully participate in the city's sporting life. Today, the 34-acre park continues to serve as the main headquarters for Hibbing's Parks and Recreation Department.

For a leisurely stroll along the paths and a look at the main attractions, such as the historical baseball stadium, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This is the optimal amount of time to enjoy the fresh air and take a few memorable photos.

If you plan to have a family lunch in one of the pavilions, attend a sports match, or spend time with children at the playground and splash pad, it is worth setting aside half a day for your visit. The park's atmosphere encourages long periods of relaxation and peaceful time spent in nature.

The park is open to visitors daily, from Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. This extended schedule allows you to plan your visit for anything from a morning workout to an evening stroll.

The park's infrastructure is most actively used during the warm season—from May to September. Visitors are encouraged to check the city's official website for special events or sports tournaments that might affect the availability of certain areas.

Exploring the surroundings of Bennett Park will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this cozy American town. Nearby, you will find both historical landmarks and popular local spots to grab a bite or learn more about the area's famous natives.