Juan Pablo Duarte (January 26, 1813 - July 15, 1876) was one of the founding fathers of the Dominican Republic. He was a Dominican military leader, writer, activist, and nationalist politician. He joined forces with military general Ramon Matias Mella and Francisco del Rosario Sánchez. The trio organized and promoted the Trinitario movement which eventually led to the Dominican revolt and independence from Haitian rule in 1844. Duarte paid a heavy price for his patriotism and he lost his wealth and was forced into exile, living in Venezuela until his death. Today Duarte's birth is commemorated by Dominicans every January 26.
This park is located in the Allapattah neighborhood of Miami, known for its large Dominican population.. The settlement of the Dominican community in Miami started in the 1960s and strengthened in the 1990's. Allapattah became the go to area for Dominican food items and culture. To honor the Dominican community Comstock Park and NW 17th Avenue were renamed in the 1990's to honor Juan Pablo Duarte. In 2003 the City of Miami named a portion of Allapattah "Little Santo Domingo."
Today Pablo Duarte Park is one of Allapattah's favorite hangouts. In the park there is a memorial to its namesake. There is a community center that offers programs for after school, youth basketball, and camps. There are large trees and open space to play. A small outdoor gym is available for exercise and a jogging trail circles the park. There is also a basketball court, children's playground, and splash pad. The park was filled with families enjoying the Sunday afternoon. Just outside the gate was an ice cream truck and a fresh tropical fruit vendor. If you want to experience the culture of Allapattah, all you need to do is pay a visit to this beloved...
Read moreThis is known to locals as the Dominican Park. It is a City of Miami property. Baseball diamond with seating. Playground and outdoor exercises section with equipment. Running pathway which is approximately half mile long full circle. Indoors activities for children conducted by the City of Miami. Air conditioning and cold water stations. They also have barbeque pits with tables and chairs. Many locals have birthday parties for children at the facility. Electrical outlets and other services are available by the City. Events have to be scheduled with park director. Frequent police presence. I should warn you that the park is crime ridden at night. The Police department has been very active and successful at clean it up. A word of warning: Do not attempt to enter the premises after hours. The park borders on the west side with Comstock Elementary School and the police has zero tolerance with unlawful activities. You will...
Read moreThis park is better known as AP park, or Dominican park. I've had a lot of experiences here as it is the closest park to my house. Its a wide open space where lots of recreational activities occur. From basketball, to baseball, to soccer, to kids playing in the playground, & exercisers. People come from all around Allapattah to hang out there. Many benches & plenty of shaded areas. Besides a few rats running around the bushes, & a few pot heads frequenting, you'll have a relaxing & exciting time visiting in the heart...
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