Playland Park (Indiana) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Playland Park
Springbrook Park circa 1910
Type	Urban park
Location	Los Angeles, California, United States
Area	35 acres (14 ha)
Created	1880
Closed	1961

Playland Park was a fun amusement park located in South Bend, Indiana. It was built near the St. Joseph River, between Ironwood Drive and Lincolnway East. This park offered many exciting things to do for families and friends.

Park History: From Trolley Stop to Fun Park

Playland Park first opened in 1880. Back then, it was called Springbrook Park. It started as a trolley park, which was a park built at the end of a trolley line. People would ride the trolley to get there and enjoy a day out.

Early Attractions and Big Changes

By 1912, Springbrook Park had grown a lot. It featured a Casino, which was a large hall for events. There was also an exhibition hall and even a roller coaster for thrilling rides!

In 1916, something new was added: a race track! This meant even more excitement for visitors.

A New Name and a Famous Ride

A big change happened in 1924 when Pete Redden became the park's manager. He decided to hold a contest to give the park a new name. The winning name was "Playland Park"! The park's roller coaster also got a cool new name: the "Jack Rabbit."

More Than Just Rides: Sports and Shows

Playland Park wasn't only about amusement rides. It also had a baseball field. A famous team called the South Bend Blue Sox played many of their games there. They were part of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.

Racing Action and Grandstand Events

The park's race track hosted exciting events. A NASCAR race was held there on July 20, 1952. Famous drivers like Tim Flock and Lee Petty competed.

The grandstand at the park was a busy place. It hosted horse races and amazing fireworks shows. For many years, the 4-H Fair, a popular event for young people, was also held at Playland Park.

Music and Memories: The Dance Hall

Playland Park had a large dance hall. Many famous bands played there, including Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, and Ozzie Nelson. These concerts were very popular, drawing between 2,000 and 3,000 people on weekends!

The Park's Final Chapter

In 1961, Playland Park closed its gates for good. The land was then turned into a golf course. That golf course stayed open for about 40 years. Today, the area is used for student housing for Indiana University South Bend. Only some cement parts from the old grandstands remain, reminding us of the fun park that once stood there.

Images for kids

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  Springbrook Park circa 1910