South Park

South Park is a historic 16-acre public park located in Billings, Montana. Established in 1882, it is one of the oldest and largest parks in the city. The park has been a central gathering place for the South Side community of Billings for over a century.

South Park features a variety of recreational facilities and natural spaces. The park includes several sports fields and courts, including baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and tennis courts. A playground provides entertainment for children, while picnic areas with barbecue grills offer spaces for families and groups to gather.

One of the park's notable features is its swimming pool, which opened in 1914 and was once called the "largest city owned pool in the West." The pool has a complex history, as for several decades people of color were only permitted to swim there on Sundays. Today, the pool is open to all and remains a popular summer attraction.

In the center of the park stands a gazebo, which was part of the original 1913 park development plans. The gazebo serves as a focal point for concerts, events, and community gatherings. Though the original structure was replaced in 2012, it continues to be an important landmark in the park.

South Park also includes a sprayground, providing a modern water feature for visitors to enjoy. The park's green spaces and trees offer areas for relaxation and passive recreation throughout the year.

As one of Billings' oldest parks, South Park has witnessed and reflected the city's changing social dynamics over the decades. Today, it serves a diverse community and continues to be an important recreational and social hub for the South Side of Billings.