Boone Square

Boone Square Park, spanning approximately 4 acres, is a compact yet notable green space located in Louisville's historic Portland neighborhood. Established in 1892, it is one of the first parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in Louisville. The land for the park was gifted to the city in 1891 by Eliza Boone, a descendant of Captain William Boone, and it holds historical significance as the site of Louisville's first organized baseball game, played in 1865.

The park's design reflects Olmsted's vision, with flexible recreational spaces, shaded walking paths, and picnic areas. It is surrounded by a rustic stone wall with entrances at all four corners and midway along each side. Mature trees dominate the landscape, offering ample shade and a serene atmosphere for visitors. The park underwent a significant renovation in the 1970s, leading to the addition of basketball courts, playgrounds, a spray fountain, and a picnic shelter, enhancing its appeal to families and local residents.

Boone Square Park also features historical elements, such as plaques embedded in the southern wall, documenting its history and association with the Olmsted-designed park system. Alongside its recreational offerings, the park boasts facilities such as restrooms, a sprayground for water play, and ample seating areas, making it a well-rounded destination for leisure and community gatherings. Open year-round from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., Boone Square Park remains a cherished part of Louisville's urban landscape.