Caswell Park

Located in the eastern part of Knoxville, Tennessee, this cozy spot known as Caswell Park offers a harmonious blend of rich sports heritage and modern recreation areas. Founded more than a century ago in the USA, it has become the true heart of the community, where baseball history intertwines with the everyday leisure of city residents.

Today, the park is primarily known as a top-tier sports complex. It features four lighted softball fields that regularly host city leagues and tournaments. The park's architecture, including the Sam Anderson Pavilion, was designed with respect for the surrounding historic neighborhood, creating a special, warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

For those seeking tranquility or family fun, the park offers spacious green lawns and the Ashley Nicole Dream Playground, a modern inclusive play area. It blends perfectly into the landscape of the historic Irish Town neighborhood, remaining a vital public space for outdoor strolls.

For information regarding events or facility rentals at Caswell Park, you can use the following contact details:

Caswell Park is always full of life, especially on warm evenings when the lights come on at the four large softball fields. One of the most popular activities here is watching local league games. Fans and passersby alike can enjoy the excitement of the competition from the comfort of the bleachers or the surrounding lawns.

For families, the Ashley Nicole Dream Playground is a must-visit. This modern and safe playground is designed to be accessible to children with a wide range of needs. While the kids play, adults can relax in the shade of the Sam Anderson Pavilion, which often serves as a venue for local celebrations and gatherings.

Those who prefer a more relaxed pace will appreciate the well-maintained green spaces, perfect for picnics on the grass or reading a book surrounded by nature. Thanks to its cleanliness and thoughtful layout, the park is a great spot for morning jogs or evening strolls, allowing guests to feel the rhythm of life in Knoxville.

The easiest way to reach Caswell Park, located at 570 Winona St, is by car. If you are driving on I-40, take the exit for MLK Jr Ave or Cherry St on the east side of the city. Convenient parking is provided on-site for visitors.

For those preferring public transport, the KAT (Knoxville Area Transit) buses serving the eastern districts are a good option. The nearest stops are on MLK Ave or Magnolia Ave, from which the park entrance is about a 10–15 minute walk.

If you are staying downtown or in the Irish Town area, a taxi ride will take just a few minutes. Additionally, the park is integrated into the local network of walking and cycling paths, making it easily accessible for those who enjoy active strolls.

The history of this site began in 1916, when William Caswell, a successful businessman and passionate baseball fan, donated the land to the city. Caswell was a landmark figure; he participated in one of the first documented baseball games in Tennessee back in 1865 and later became famous for growing renowned grapefruits in Florida.

For eight decades, the park was the epicenter of professional baseball in Knoxville. The field, known over the years as Ridley Field and Bill Meyer Stadium, served as the home turf for the Knoxville Smokies. In the 1920s, the park saw legendary action: world-class sports icons like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Satchel Paige graced the field during exhibition games against giants like the New York Yankees.

In the mid-20th century, the stadium faced a dramatic moment when a fire destroyed the wooden bleachers in 1953. They were subsequently replaced with a more modern concrete structure. Over time, the park transformed from a purely professional arena into a multi-functional public space.

Today, Caswell Park carefully preserves the memory of its sporting past while remaining a key cultural site in the Irish Town neighborhood. Modern enhancements, such as the Sam Anderson Pavilion, only highlight its status as a vital gathering place for city residents for over a hundred years.

A simple stroll through the paths to see the main features of Caswell Park usually takes about 1–2 hours. This is enough time to appreciate the scale of the sports fields and relax at the playground.

If you plan to have a family picnic in the pavilion or attend one of the softball games hosted here, it is worth setting aside 2 to 4 hours. The dynamic atmosphere of the sports competitions often encourages guests to stay longer.

Caswell Park is open to visitors daily, making it easy to plan your visit. Operating hours: 08:00 AM to 09:00 PM, Monday through Sunday.

Since the park frequently hosts sports tournaments and special events, access hours for specific fields or the pavilion may vary. It is recommended to check the official Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department website for the current schedule before your visit.

A visit to the park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting sites in the eastern part of the city. Its proximity to historic landmarks and cultural centers allows for a full day's itinerary.