Growing Up in Beatrice
Opportunities for Kids to Stay Active
Beatrice offers many opportunities for kids and families to get outside, stay active, and make memories.
Over the past several years, the City of Beatrice has continued investing in recreational opportunities for local youth, including the installation of five new playgrounds and parks throughout the community. Each playground offers something a little different, with unique features designed to engage kids of various ages and abilities.
A.J. Stoddard Park features an interactive, kid-powered game that combines movement, lights and sounds. Kids manually spin a center handle to power the game, then run between the lighted buttons to “catch” virtual insects and animals like crickets, fireflies, and frogs by tapping the lighted, sound-emitting buttons. It’s a fun way to combine physical activity with interactive play.
Chautauqua Park features a whimsical playground inspired by the popular children’s books written by Eric Carle. The playground offers ADA-compliant turf and sidewalks, plus nature-inspired, treehouse-themed play.
Froberry Park offers a unique climbing experience with a tall structure featuring rope and web-style climbing elements that lead up to two slides. Kids can also enjoy an inclusive spinner, a market stand, and conga drums.
Lincoln Legacy Park features a patriotic themed structure that is ADA accessible for all capabilities, including an inclusive see-saw, a glider, and swing set.
Sertoma-Astro Park offers two separate play structures, one is designed for 3–5 years and another for 5-12 years. The park includes a multi-child swing, and plenty of climbing and sliding options. This park is also conveniently home of the Sertoma Splash Pad.
The City’s investment in youth recreation will continue. Additional playground structures are being considered at the former Cedar Elementary School property, Hannibal Park, and Robertson Park.
Opportunities for kids to learn, create, and explore extend beyond the parks, too.
The Beatrice Public Library is in the process of building an outdoor classroom with a pergola, seating, and musical instruments. Funded by the Library Foundation, the space will provide another space for kids and families to gather, learn, and enjoy the outdoors.
Other amenities offered by the City of Beatrice include:
- Big Blue Waterpark, a popular summer destination for swimming.
- Sports Facilities - Baseball and softball fields, pickleball and tennis courts provide opportunities for organized sports and recreational play.
- Skate Park, a place for skateboarders and wheeled-sport enthusiasts to practice their skills.
- Trails - 10 miles of concrete trails within the city limits and 18 miles of limestone trails extending north and southeast of Beatrice offer opportunities for walking, biking, and exploring the outdoors. New trails are also being developed to connect Riverside Park to the Homestead National Historical Park.
Coming soon, Beatrice will be home to a new pump track at the new Big Blue Bike Park! This exciting addition is being developed in partnership with Big Blue Bike Company and will offer another great opportunity for kids and families to enjoy the outdoors.
There are plenty of ways to play, grow, and make memories in Beatrice. We hope you will bring the family and enjoy all our community has to offer.
Mark Pethoud
Director of Public Properties
Contact Information
400 Ella Street
Beatrice, NE 68310
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