King-Lincoln Park is a significant landmark in Newport News, Virginia, named after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and President Abraham Lincoln. It is an 18.8-acre park located on the Hampton Roads waterfront, offering a beach area that has been part of the park since 1937. The park serves as a cultural and recreational hub, featuring amenities like a stage for outdoor performances, a basketball court, playground, walking track, and picnic areas. It is also home to iconic sculptures, including 'The Dream' and 'The Emancipation Oak.' The park has a rich history, having been the first public park in Newport News designated for African Americans in 1945, and it played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Today, it continues to host various community events, such as the Southeast Community Day.
The park's location provides stunning views of the Hampton Roads waterfront, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Its historical significance and cultural importance make it a beacon of hope and resilience for the community.
King-Lincoln Park is not only a place for recreation but also a symbol of progress and equality, reflecting the legacies of its namesakes.