Bol Park
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Bol Park

4.7
·362 reviews·Palo Alto, United States

A serene 13.8-acre park in Palo Alto, famous for its friendly donkeys, native plant garden, and peaceful trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Bol Park

Bol Park

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene 13.8-acre park in Palo Alto, famous for its friendly donkeys, native plant garden, and peaceful trails.

4.7
(362 reviews)

"The real draw is the Barron Park donkeys; they are wonderful and friendly!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Donkey Mail!

Bring a letter for the donkeys! They have a special mailbox for 'donkey mail.'

Picnic Perfect

Plenty of open grass and shaded spots make it ideal for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Famous Barron Park Donkeys

The Famous Barron Park Donkeys

Donkey Pasture

Meet the friendly resident donkeys! A unique and charming experience for all ages, complete with a special mailbox for donkey mail.

Native Plant Garden

Native Plant Garden

North End of Park

Explore a serene garden showcasing local flora, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature.

Playground Fun

Playground Fun

South End of Park

A well-maintained playground suitable for children of various ages, ensuring fun for the little ones.

Peaceful Walking Trails

Peaceful Walking Trails

Throughout the Park

Enjoy well-kept, clean trails winding through natural open space and surrounded by beautiful trees.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Donkey Charm

Bol Park's most unique feature is its resident donkeys! Visitors rave about seeing them, and there's even a special mailbox for 'donkey mail.' It's a peaceful nature escape, perfect for families and those seeking a quiet outdoor experience.

Park Perks & Practicalities

This 13.8-acre park offers multi-use trails, a playground for various ages, and a native plant garden. Street parking is available, and the wide paths make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. It's a great spot for picnics and enjoying natural open space.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Family-friendly, lively vibe
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ur kids go to menlo, (not atherton) #paloalto #richmom #starterpack #goldengoose #menlopark #rosewood #cryptoinvesting #stanford #patagonia
@tinx
248.1K likes • 2.2M views

Donkey Mail!

Bring a letter for the donkeys! They have a special mailbox for 'donkey mail.' Reddit

Picnic Perfect

Plenty of open grass and shaded spots make it ideal for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

#Facebook Global buys #racistpolice #mppd for 11.2M to #overpolice #blackandbrown #hoods in #eastpaloalto #thahoodsquad #fyp #blm #policebrutality
@thahoodsquad
111.3K likes • 678.3K views
Kids cafes in Korea are designed for kids to play while parents relax at the cafe or leave if they wish. But why would I want to leave… I want to play too! 🤭 📍 Bol Bear Park, Lotte Mall Eunpyeong @ballbearpark_eunpyeong Other locations in Giheung, Bucheon, and Cheonan. 📌 Hours: 11 am to 8 pm. 2-hour and 3-hour passes available (Our 2-hour weekend price was ₩24,000 per child and ₩8,000 per adult...
ahjoomahan
40.1K likes • 1.6M views

Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly

Wide, well-maintained paths are great for strollers and wheelchairs. :wheelchair:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners. :dog:

The Hills Water Park Tuje Ghuma du Bol chalti Kya😉 #waterpark #sonipat #splash #summer #rohtak #instagram #virałpost #fun #enjoy #wateractivities
hillswaterpark
0 likes • 124.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Donkey Mail!

Bring a letter for the donkeys! They have a special mailbox for 'donkey mail.' Reddit

Picnic Perfect

Plenty of open grass and shaded spots make it ideal for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly

Wide, well-maintained paths are great for strollers and wheelchairs. :wheelchair:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners. :dog:

Capture the Charm

The donkeys and natural scenery offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(362 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bol Park is cherished for its unique donkey residents and peaceful, natural atmosphere. Visitors praise the well-maintained trails, accessible paths, and the charming playground, making it a favorite for families and those seeking a quiet escape. While generally well-loved, some may find parking limited during peak times.

"Our kids love visiting the donkeys and riding bikes on the path here. It feels more like a quiet nature space than a typical city park.
-Play Area: Playground for various ages.
-Amenities: Walking paths, picnic spots, donkey pasture.
-Shade & Scenery: Natural open space with shaded paths.
-Accessibility: Wide paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
-Parking: Street parking available.
-Good for: Families, nannies, caregivers, daycares"

Maria del Pilar Hernandez (Tikiland)

"Loved this trail. Very peaceful and well kept. Trail was clean and people were friendly (all while continuing to social distance) Beautiful trees as well."

Eliza

"There is a nice playground on one end of the park and lots of open space, but the real draw is the Barron Park donkeys."

AL Kim

What People Like

Friendly resident donkeys
Peaceful walking trails
Great playground for kids

What People Dislike

Limited parking on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bol Park is located in Palo Alto, California. Street parking is generally available near the park entrances. For those using public transport, Caltrain stops in Palo Alto, and you can then take a short bus ride or taxi to the park. TikTok

Yes, street parking is available around the park. It's recommended to arrive earlier on weekends to secure a spot, especially if you're visiting with family. :car:

Absolutely! Bol Park is easily accessible by bike, with paths that connect to local cycling routes. It's a popular spot for cyclists enjoying the scenery. :bicycle:

The park features wide, well-maintained paths that are suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, making it accessible for visitors with mobility needs. :wheelchair:

You can use GPS navigation systems with 'Bol Park, Palo Alto, CA' as your destination. Look for signs indicating the park entrance upon arrival. :round_pushpin:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Bol Park is a public city park and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to visit and enjoy its amenities. :ticket:

Bol Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's a public space, so hours are typically aligned with daylight. :clock1:

There is no admission fee to see the donkeys at Bol Park. This unique attraction is freely accessible to all park visitors. :moneywithwings:

Bol Park does not offer reservations for picnic spots. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended for prime locations. :newspaper:

While not a primary venue for large ticketed events, local community groups may organize small gatherings. Check local Palo Alto park event listings for updates. :calendar:

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can visit the famous Barron Park donkeys, enjoy the native plant garden, let kids play at the playground, and walk or bike on the peaceful trails. It's also a great spot for picnics. Reddit

Restroom facilities are available within the park, typically located near the playground area. :toilet:

Yes, Bol Park is excellent for families! It has a playground for various ages and the donkeys are a huge hit with kids. The open spaces are great for running around. Reddit

Dogs are welcome in Bol Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet. :dog:

Expect natural open space, shaded paths, beautiful trees, and a dedicated native plant garden. The park offers a serene, nature-focused environment. :evergreen_tree:

📸 📸 Photography

The donkey pasture is a must for unique shots. The native plant garden offers beautiful botanical backdrops, and the tree-lined trails provide lovely natural light. :camerawithflash:

Yes, the open spaces and tree canopy can create beautiful lighting during sunset. The peaceful atmosphere adds to the photographic appeal. TikTok

While casual photography is encouraged, professional photoshoots might require permits depending on the scale. It's best to check with the Palo Alto Parks Department for specific regulations. :camera:

The 'golden hours' shortly after sunrise and before sunset offer the most flattering light. Midday can be harsh, but the shade from trees helps. :sunriseovermountains:

Drone usage in city parks is often restricted or prohibited to ensure safety and tranquility for other visitors. It's advisable to check local ordinances. :noentrysign:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bol Park is a top-notch choice for families. The playground caters to various ages, and the open grassy areas are perfect for energetic kids to run and play. The star attraction for children is undoubtedly the Barron Park donkeys, which are consistently described as friendly and a huge hit. Reddit

Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many picnic spots, and take advantage of the wide, accessible paths for strollers. It’s a safe, engaging, and peaceful environment where kids can explore and have fun.

🚶‍♀️ Nature & Peace Seekers

If you're looking for a tranquil escape, Bol Park delivers. The well-maintained walking trails offer a serene experience, winding through natural open spaces and shaded by mature trees. The native plant garden provides a quiet corner for reflection and appreciating local flora. Reddit

Visitors often describe the park as 'peaceful' and 'well-kept,' highlighting its ability to offer a respite from the urban hustle. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Bay Area.

🐶 Dog Owners

Bol Park is a welcoming spot for dog owners. Your furry friends are allowed in the park, provided they are kept on a leash at all times. The walking trails offer a pleasant route for dogs to explore, and the open spaces give them room to stretch their legs. Reddit

Remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone. It’s a great place for a relaxed outing with your canine companion.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Beloved Barron Park Donkeys

The most talked-about feature of Bol Park is undoubtedly its resident donkeys. These gentle animals are a beloved part of the Palo Alto community and a major draw for park visitors. Many reviews highlight the joy of seeing them, especially for children. There's even a unique tradition of leaving 'donkey mail' in a special mailbox near their pasture, adding a whimsical touch to the experience. Reddit

Community Insight: Travelers often mention the donkeys as a highlight, describing them as 'wonderful and friendly.' It's a simple pleasure that makes Bol Park stand out from typical city parks. The presence of these animals transforms the park into a charming, almost rural, escape within the urban landscape. Reddit

Tip: If you plan to send 'donkey mail,' bring a small note or drawing to leave in their mailbox. It's a fun way to interact with this unique park feature.

Exploring Bol Park's Trails and Gardens

Bol Park offers a network of multi-use trails that are perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling. These paths wind through natural open spaces and are lined with beautiful trees, providing ample shade and a peaceful ambiance. The park also features a dedicated native plant garden, showcasing local flora and offering a serene spot for quiet contemplation. Reddit

The trails are described as 'clean' and 'well-kept,' making them enjoyable for all visitors. The accessibility of these paths, being wide enough for strollers and wheelchairs, further enhances the park's appeal to a diverse range of visitors, including families and those with mobility challenges. Reddit

Key Features:
- Multi-use trails: Ideal for walking, running, and biking.
- Native Plant Garden: A tranquil area for nature lovers.
- Shaded paths: Offering comfort during warmer days.
- Accessibility: Wide paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

Family Fun and Amenities at Bol Park

Bol Park is a fantastic destination for families, offering a dedicated playground designed for children of various ages. The open grassy areas provide ample space for kids to run around and play freely, making it a safe and enjoyable environment. Reddit

Beyond the playground, the park's amenities include picnic spots, making it an ideal location for a family outing or a casual lunch amidst nature. The presence of the donkeys adds an extra layer of excitement for younger visitors, turning a simple park visit into a memorable adventure. Reddit

Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Playground: Suitable for different age groups.
- Open Green Spaces: Perfect for active play.
- Donkey Encounters: A unique and engaging attraction for kids.
- Picnic Areas: Convenient for family meals.

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