Located at 2090 Conway Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55119, Conway Park is a dynamic urban park on Saint Paul’s Greater East Side, offering a wealth of recreational amenities and community programs. Managed in partnership with the Sanneh Foundation, Conway Park features two splash pads, three playgrounds, tennis courts, athletic fields, a community garden, and a seasonal sports dome, making it a year-round destination for families, athletes, and community members. The adjacent Conway Community Center, operated by the Sanneh Foundation, provides free youth camps, open basketball, futsal, soccer, after-school programs, and more, fostering a vibrant community hub. This comprehensive guide explores Conway Park’s amenities, programs, visitor information, and tips to ensure an unforgettable visit.
Explore Conway Park in Saint Paul, MN: A Family-Friendly Urban Hub
About Conway Park
Conway Park is a cornerstone of Saint Paul’s East Side, offering a diverse array of outdoor amenities and community-focused programs. Spanning a spacious area, the park is designed to cater to visitors of all ages, from children enjoying the splash pads and playgrounds to athletes utilizing the baseball, soccer, and softball fields. The seasonal sports dome, a standout feature, allows for year-round activities, including indoor soccer and softball, even during Minnesota’s harsh winters. The park’s partnership with the Sanneh Foundation, a nonprofit founded by former professional soccer player Tony Sanneh, enhances its offerings with free youth programs, educational support, and senior services, making it a vital community resource.
History and Community Impact
Conway Park has long served as a recreational hub for Saint Paul’s East Side, but its partnership with the Sanneh Foundation since 2014 has transformed it into a beacon of community engagement. The Sanneh Foundation, dedicated to holistic youth development, has invested millions in park improvements, including a $9–11 million project for artificial turf fields, field lighting, and a seasonal sports dome. These upgrades, supported by a $4.5 million state grant and a $2 million contribution from the Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation, ensure that Conway Park offers first-class facilities comparable to those in suburban communities. The foundation’s mission to empower youth, promote health, and foster diversity and equity has made Conway Park a model for community-driven recreation.
Amenities at Conway Park
Conway Park is packed with outdoor and indoor amenities, making it a versatile destination for recreation and community activities. Here’s a detailed look at what the park offers:
Outdoor Amenities
Conway Park’s outdoor facilities cater to a wide range of interests, from sports to family-friendly fun.
- Baseball Field: A well-maintained field for baseball practice, games, or casual play like kickball.
- Basketball Court: A court for one-on-one games, practice, or group play.
- Community Garden: A space for local residents to grow fresh produce, fostering sustainability and community connection.
- Football Field: Ideal for football games, practices, or community events.
- Playgrounds (3): Three playgrounds with slides, swings, and climbing structures, perfect for children of various ages.
- Soccer Fields (3): FIFA-certified fields with artificial turf, ideal for soccer matches and training, enhanced by a seasonal sports dome for year-round use.
- Softball Field: A dedicated field for softball games and practice.
- Splash Pads (2): Two splash pads, open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in summer, provide a fun way to cool off for kids and families.
- Tennis Courts: Courts for tennis enthusiasts to practice or play matches.
Indoor Amenities at Conway Community Center
The Conway Community Center, operated by the Sanneh Foundation, offers indoor facilities that complement the park’s outdoor offerings.
- Craft Room: A space for creative activities and community workshops.
- Gym (Large): A spacious gymnasium for basketball, futsal, and other indoor sports.
- Kitchen: Available for community events and rentals.
- Meeting Room: A versatile space for community gatherings, classes, or private events.
Seasonal Sports Dome
The seasonal sports dome is a highlight of Conway Park, providing a climate-controlled environment for year-round sports like soccer and softball. The dome, part of an $11 million improvement project, features artificial turf fields with shock pads for safety, making it one of the safest and most advanced facilities in Minnesota. It supports pickup games for soccer, basketball, and volleyball, organized through platforms like the GoodRec app, ensuring community access even during winter months.
Programs at Conway Community Center
The Sanneh Foundation’s partnership with Conway Community Center brings a wealth of programs focused on youth development, senior services, and community well-being. These programs make Conway Park a true community hub.
Youth Programs
The Sanneh Foundation offers a variety of free and low-cost programs for youth, designed to promote education, physical health, and social development:
- Summer Splash: A day-long program with hands-on science activities, field trips, and meals, running through August 17th. The center is closed to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday during this program.
- KidzTyme: An after-school program (September 9–June 6) for up to 120 youth, offering a safe space for enrichment activities like sports, arts, and academic support.
- Free Sports Camps: Summer camps for soccer, basketball, pickleball, and golf, providing a fun and healthy environment for kids across the Twin Cities.
- Open Basketball and Futsal: Free access to the gym for basketball and futsal, encouraging physical activity and community engagement.
- After-School Support: Computer time, study hall, and academic support to help students succeed academically.
Senior Services
The Sanneh Foundation offers inclusive programs for seniors, addressing health, wellness, and social needs:
- Silver Sneakers Classic Fitness Class: A free weekly fitness class on Tuesdays at 10 a.m., starting in February, targeting seniors’ balance and coordination. Included with a Sanneh MVP Senior Membership ($120/year).
- FETCH Grocery Program: A monthly food delivery program for homebound seniors, offering culturally and dietary-specific groceries. Contact groceryservices@thesannehfoundation.org for details.
- Walk With Ease: A six-week walking program in partnership with North East Seniors for Better Living, running from February 5 to March 15, promoting active aging.
- Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP): Employment opportunities for low-income seniors aged 55+, in collaboration with Motivation, Educating, and Training (MET).
Visitor Information
Planning a visit to Conway Park? Here’s essential information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Park Hours
Conway Park is open daily from sunrise to 11 p.m., with splash pads operating from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during summer months. The Conway Community Center operates on the following schedule, but is closed to the public from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday during Summer Splash programming (through August 17):
- Monday–Friday: 1:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
- Saturday–Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Contact Information
For inquiries, program registrations, or facility rentals, contact the Sanneh Foundation or Saint Paul Parks and Recreation:
- Park Address: Conway Park, 2090 Conway Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55119
- Community Center Contact: Sanneh Foundation Conway Recreation Center, conway@thesannehfoundation.org, 651-690-4855
- General Customer Service: 651-266-6400, ParksCustomerService@ci.stpaul.mn.us (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)
- Park Security: 651-646-3535
- Sanneh Foundation Website: thesannehfoundation.org/conway-community-center
Getting to Conway Park
Conway Park is located on Saint Paul’s Greater East Side, adjacent to the Sun Ray branch of the Saint Paul Public Library. Street parking is available, but it can be limited during events or peak times due to soccer or football games. Metro Transit buses serve stops along Conway Avenue, making public transit a convenient option. The park’s proximity to other East Side attractions, like the Sun Ray Shopping Center, makes it easy to combine with other activities. Be aware that parking and traffic may be congested during events, so plan accordingly.
Things to Do at Conway Park
Conway Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from family-friendly fun to competitive sports and community engagement.
Enjoy the Splash Pads
The two splash pads, open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in summer, are a hit with families. Kids can cool off and play in the water features, making it a perfect spot for a hot day. The splash pads are listed among the Twin Cities’ best, as noted in Anne’s 35 Best Twin Cities Splash Pads & Wading Pools article.
Play on the Playgrounds
With three playgrounds, Conway Park is a paradise for kids. Featuring slides, swings, and climbing structures, these playgrounds cater to various age groups, ensuring safe and fun playtime.
Engage in Sports
Conway Park’s athletic facilities are top-notch, offering:
- Tennis: Practice or play matches on the tennis courts.
- Basketball: Enjoy pick-up games or practice shots on the basketball court.
- Soccer, Baseball, and Softball: Use the FIFA-certified soccer fields, baseball field, or softball field for games or training.
- Football: The football field is ideal for practices or community games.
- Seasonal Dome Activities: Join pickup soccer, basketball, or volleyball games in the dome, bookable via the GoodRec app.
Participate in Community Programs
The Sanneh Foundation’s programs at the Conway Community Center offer opportunities for youth and seniors to engage in sports, education, and wellness activities. From free summer camps to senior fitness classes, these programs foster community connection and personal growth.
Visit the Community Garden
The community garden provides a space for residents to grow fresh produce, promoting sustainability and community involvement. It’s a great spot to connect with neighbors and learn about gardening.
Tips for Visiting Conway Park
To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:
- Check Program Schedules: Visit the Sanneh Foundation website for program and dome schedules, as the center may be closed during Summer Splash hours (8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday).
- Plan for Parking: Parking can be tight during events. Arrive early or use nearby lots like the Sun Ray Shopping Center.
- Bring Sports Equipment: The park does not provide equipment, so bring tennis rackets, basketballs, or other gear.
- Check Weather: Splash pads are open in summer, but Minnesota weather can be unpredictable. Dress appropriately for outdoor activities.
- Respect the Facilities: Dispose of trash properly and follow park rules to keep Conway Park welcoming for all.
- Explore Nearby: Pair your visit with a trip to the Sun Ray Library or nearby East Side attractions.
Why Visit Conway Park?
Conway Park is a vibrant, community-focused destination that combines top-tier recreational facilities with impactful programs by the Sanneh Foundation. Its splash pads, playgrounds, athletic fields, and seasonal sports dome make it a year-round hub for families, athletes, and residents. The Sanneh Foundation’s free youth camps, senior services, and community initiatives ensure that Conway Park is more than just a park—it’s a place where people of all ages can learn, grow, and connect. Whether you’re splashing in the summer, playing soccer in the dome, or joining a community program, Conway Park offers an inclusive and exciting experience in Saint Paul’s East Side.
Contact Conway Park
For more information or to inquire about programs, rentals, or park services, contact the Sanneh Foundation or Saint Paul Parks and Recreation:
- Address: Conway Park, 2090 Conway Ave, Saint Paul, MN 55119
- Sanneh Foundation Conway Recreation Center: conway@thesannehfoundation.org, 651-690-4855
- General Customer Service: 651-266-6400, ParksCustomerService@ci.stpaul.mn.us (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)
- Park Security: 651-646-3535
- Sanneh Foundation Website: thesannehfoundation.org/conway-community-center
Conclusion
Conway Park in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a dynamic urban park that offers something for everyone, from splash pads and playgrounds to athletic fields and a seasonal sports dome. Its partnership with the Sanneh Foundation elevates it as a community hub, providing free youth programs, senior services, and opportunities for recreation and education. Whether you’re cooling off at the splash pads, playing sports in the dome, or participating in a community garden, Conway Park delivers a welcoming and inclusive experience. Plan your visit today and discover why Conway Park is a cherished destination on Saint Paul’s East Side.
