City Park (Monkey Park): Opelika's Beloved Green Escape

City Park, affectionately called Monkey Park, holds a special place in the hearts of Opelika residents. More than just a park, it's a living testament to the city's history and a vibrant center for community life. The park's story began in 1951 when Opelika's Board of Parks and Recreation hired W.J. "Bill" Calhoun as its first director. Calhoun envisioned transforming a wooded area behind Northside School into a recreational haven. Generous donations of land from I.J. Scott, Sr. and Winston Smith T, Sr. made this vision a reality, and Municipal Park officially opened in 1955.One of the park's earliest and most enduring attractions was the Rocky Brook Rocket, a miniature train that quickly captured the imagination of locals. This 1:16 scale replica of a diesel train, funded by local civic groups, chugged along a scenic route through the park, offering rides for just fifteen cents. The Rocky Brook Rocket remains a beloved feature, continuing to delight visitors of all ages. In 1956, Monkey Village opened, adding another layer of charm to the park. Eight spider monkeys, housed in a specially designed habitat, became instant celebrities. For nearly 25 years, these playful primates entertained park-goers with their antics on trees, flying rings, and a trapeze. However, in July 1980, the monkeys were relocated to the Montgomery Zoo, marking the end of an era.While the monkeys may be gone, their legacy lives on. The park's nickname, Monkey Park, persists, and a wooden monkey statue serves as a reminder of the park's unique past. The statue offers a tangible connection to the park's history. Opelika's Municipal Park has been the main city park since the 1950s. It has multiple playgrounds, swings, the creek, the Salem-Shotwell Covered Bridge and, of course, the infamous Rocky Brook Rocket miniature train. It has covered areas to host picnics, birthday parties and family reunions, as well as a stage where the Summer Swing concert series is hosted every summer.