Virginia L. Brown Recreation Center

Virginia L. Brown Recreation Center sits on 15 acres of land in the heart of the St. John's neighborhood in northeast Austin, just east of Interstate 35 and south of U.S. Highway 183 and offers youth, teen, adult, and senior programs and a range of special events. The center consists of a lobby area, one activity room, a full size kitchen and shares the use of the gymnasium with the J.J. Pickle Elementary School.

Opened on January 27, 2002, the St. John's Community Center is a first time collaboration between the City of Austin and the Austin Independent School District. The center houses the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, the Austin Police Department, the Austin Public Library, Health and Human Services, three joint use conference rooms, as well as the J.J. Pickle Elementary School. Today, St. John's is a diverse community, which is rich in history and tradition.

Out-Of-School Time Youth Programs

Kids posing with emoji faces they made from paper plates.

The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to offering programs that foster Youth Development in a safe and caring environment. We believe in creating opportunities for youth that expose them to critical thinking and leadership development while helping explore interest through enhancements, arts, and active play. Come and experience the spectrum of opportunities with the Parks and Recreation Youth Programs.

Afterschool Kids Club
Boredom Busters
Youth Summer Camp

Youth Sports

Kids playing sports

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department offers year-round co-ed youth sports that fundamentals and stress sportsmanship. Our seasonal leagues provide a safe recreational setting structured for a beginner to intermediate players. Led by volunteer coaches, games are noncompetitive in order to emphasize teamwork and physical fitness.

Teen Programs

Teens observing their artwork

The Parks and Recreation Department is committed to offering programs that encourage Youth Development through outdoor exploration, the arts, critical thinking, and leadership development.

Teen Program
TCTA - Totally Cool Totally Art Flyer (PDF)

Adult and 50+ Programs

The Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of Senior Programs and Services for adults and people 50 years of age and older. We are committed to providing an environment that encourages active and healthy lifestyles through recreational and educational programs and services.

The Parks and Recreation Department and Senior Transportation are offering free ride services for people over the age of 50 to get to their COVID-19 vaccination appointment. For more information, click here.

Congregate Meals (PDF)
Senior Program
Yoga
DFW Swing
Men Fellowship Basketball

Community and Special Events

Fathers and daughters dancing at our father daughter dance.

The Parks and Recreation Department provides opportunities for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and socialize, meet new people, enhance existing relationships, and create community.