Benson Park | |
Type: | Municipal (Omaha) |
Location: | Benson, Nebraska |
Area: | 217.3acres |
Operator: | City of Omaha |
Open: | All year |
Benson Park is located at 7028 Military Avenue in the Benson neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska. The 217acres park includes a lake and pavilion, as well as a scenic picnic area.
When the city of Omaha annexed Benson in 1917 the suburb did not have any parks. As the community grew there was a need for a large park. In 1931, the city acquired land north of Military Avenue and it became Benson Park. A 9-hole golf course opened in the park that year, but was closed in 1947. The golf course reopened in the 1960s with an 18-hole golf course.[1] The Omaha Tornado of 1975 lifted into the clouds at Benson Park, between the ice rink and lake.[2] The park was renovated in 1999, deepening the lake and adding trails and sidewalks.
Benson Park has a lagoon used for fishing and sightseeing. The park lies in a wide valley that offers views of the surrounding hills. The ice rink is located at 69th and Military Avenue, and is open from November through March.[3] The park also has a golf course located at 5333 North 72nd Street.