Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board renames Marcy Park to Dinky Park

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) officially renamed Marcy Park to Dinky Park on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. 

Dinky Park is located at 711 11th Ave. SE, near the University of Minnesota campus and Dinkytown area. The park was previously named for Marcy School, which once occupied the land. 

The East Bank Neighborhoods Partnership officially submitted a request to rename the park to the MPRB in 2024. It submitted Dinky Park as the new name after engaging with community members on possible names. Read its nomination letter for more details on its rationale and engagement process dating back to 2022.

The MPRB held two public hearings about the name change, on Aug. 20, 2025, and Sept. 25, 2025. A resolution to change the name (Resolution 2025-233) was approved by the MPRB Planning Committee on Nov. 5, 2025, and the full Board of Commissioners on Nov. 19, 2025.

The MPRB website and MPRB registration software have been updated with the new name. New signs that read "Dinky Park" will be installed at the park next spring.