Trago Park

In the heart of Nebraska, in the city of Lincoln, lies a wonderful public space — Trago Park. Spanning over 3 hectares, this picturesque corner of the USA harmoniously blends active recreation, modern art, and a deep respect for local community history.

The park is an important cultural site dedicated to the heritage of the city's African American community. Here, you can not only enjoy the greenery but also see unique installations, such as the famous "Rolling Donut" art object. Thanks to its multifaceted nature, the location attracts both those seeking a quiet stroll and active tourists looking for interesting sports facilities.

This place is rightfully considered a family oasis. During the summer heat, the popular spray park with its water fountains comes to life, while access to the extensive Billy Wolff Trail makes the park an ideal starting point for a hiking or cycling journey through the city's outskirts.

To inquire about events or the current status of the park's infrastructure, you can use the official contact details:

The main draw for visitors during the summer months is the Trago Spraypark — a vibrant zone with water sprayers and fountains where children and adults can cool off and have fun. For fans of team games, there are excellent basketball courts that are rarely empty in good weather.

If you prefer a more tranquil and educational experience, be sure to take some time to examine the six historical exhibits. These large-scale panels featuring photographs and text tell the story of the neighborhood's growth and its prominent leaders. This immersion into the past makes a simple walk truly meaningful.

Modern art enthusiasts will appreciate the "Rolling Donut" sculpture, while joggers will value the convenient access to the Billy Wolff Trail. You can also simply enjoy a picnic on one of the well-kept lawns or walk over to the adjacent Union Plaza, which features unique climbing walls and additional art installations.

Getting to this cozy spot is easy, as it is within walking distance of the city center. The park is located at the intersection of N 22nd St & U St. If you are planning a trip by car, head toward these streets — free visitor parking is available adjacent to the park.

For those who prefer public transport, the StarTran city buses are a great option. Routes serving the 22nd and U St stop will drop you right at the entrance. If you are coming from Lincoln Airport (LNK), a taxi or rental car ride will take about 15–20 minutes via Hwy 77.

Active travelers can reach the location by bicycle using the popular Billy Wolff Trail, which provides direct access to the park area. A walk from the very heart of the city will take approximately 20–30 minutes through quiet residential neighborhoods.

The history of this location dates back to 1922, when the city allocated land for the creation of a public space. The park was named in honor of prominent local community leaders — Reverend Trago T. McWilliams and his son Trago O. McWilliams. The McWilliams family left a significant mark on the city's history; for instance, Trago T.'s parents founded the city's first racially integrated church back in 1896.

The area where Trago Park is situated was historically the heart of the African American neighborhood, where many freedmen settled after the American Civil War. For a long time, this vital part of the city's heritage remained overlooked, but the situation changed during a major renovation in 2008.

In 2015, six monumental interpretive panels were installed in the park. These exhibits were developed in collaboration with historians and a board of elders to capture the history of the neighborhood's development, its local churches, and its outstanding personalities. As a result, a walk along the paths doubles as an engaging outdoor history lesson.

For a quick tour of the grounds and to see the historical panels, 30–45 minutes is usually sufficient. This gives you enough time to stroll leisurely along the paths and take a few photos of the art installations.

However, if you're planning to relax with children at the spray park or want to enjoy a small picnic on the grass, you should budget 1.5–2 hours for your visit. Those using the park as a starting point for the Billy Wolff Trail might need up to half a day to fully explore all the surrounding green spaces.

Trago Park is warmly open to the public daily. You can visit early in the morning or late in the evening: the gates are open from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM every day, including weekends and holidays.

Please note that the operation of the spray park (water features) is seasonal and typically limited to the summer months. To check the current fountain schedule, it is recommended to visit the official city parks department website.

Exploring the surroundings of Trago Park will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Nebraska's capital and see the city's iconic landmarks. Nearby, you'll find everything from state monuments to unique spots for leisure and entertainment.