Welcome to Cooper Park, Lincoln’s oldest public park, situated between 6th and 8th Streets in Lincoln, Nebraska. Originally known by names like Lincoln Park, City Park, and F Street Park, this historic green space officially opened in 1900 under the vision of renowned landscape architect Jens Jensen, with presidential candidate William Jennings Bryan attending its grand opening. Sports history buffs will appreciate that this site served as the very first home venue for Nebraska Cornhuskers football, hosting their inaugural home victory against Doane in 1891 and a matchup against Kansas in 1892.
Over the decades, the park evolved from a pioneer-era cattle pasture into a community hub, later redeveloped in the 1950s through a donation from The Cooper Foundation in honor of Joseph Cooper. Today, as you explore the grounds bordered on the north by Park Middle School, you can enjoy a variety of active modern recreational amenities. Check out the park’s pond, hit the ballfield or basketball court, play a game on the tennis court, or try out the two pickleball courts.
Families visiting the park will also find a playground for children to enjoy.
What to see at Cooper Park
- The oldest public park in Lincoln, originally designed by landscape architect Jens Jensen.
- First home venue of Nebraska Cornhuskers football, hosting games in 1891 and 1892.
- Redeveloped in the 1950s through a gift from The Cooper Foundation.
- Recreational features including a ballfield, basketball court, tennis court, and two pickleball courts.
- Family-friendly features including a pond and an on-site playground.
Visiting tips
Take time to walk the grounds where the Nebraska Cornhuskers played their very first home football game in 1891.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning or afternoon
How to get there & what’s nearby
Cooper Park is easy to reach on Lincoln’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Sheldon Museum of Art and Lincoln Children's Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Lincoln travel guide.
See the full Lincoln travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.