Mitchell Park
Palo Alto's vibrant Mitchell Park offers playgrounds, sports courts, a dog run, and community events for all.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for families
Mitchell Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for families
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Palo Alto's vibrant Mitchell Park offers playgrounds, sports courts, a dog run, and community events for all.
"A vibrant community hub with something for everyone, from playgrounds to sports fields."
🎯 Pickleball Play
Court 10 at Mitchell Park is designated for singles without a partner. Great for spontaneous games!
🐶 Doggy Day Out
The fenced dog run is a hit with pups! Bring water for your furry friends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Magical Bridge Playground
Palo Alto
An inclusive, accessible playground designed for all ages and abilities. Fun for everyone!
Mitchell Park Zoo
Palo Alto
A charming, compact zoo perfect for a family outing with various animals to discover.
Sports Courts & Fields
Palo Alto
Tennis, handball, pickleball courts, and multi-sport fields for active fun.
Dog Run
Palo Alto
A dedicated, fenced area for your furry friends to play and socialize off-leash.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Perks & Playtime
Palo Alto's Green Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pickleball Play
Court 10 at Mitchell Park is designated for singles without a partner. Great for spontaneous games!
🐶 Doggy Day Out
The fenced dog run is a hit with pups! Bring water for your furry friends.
👨👩👧👦 Playground Paradise
Magical Bridge Playground is a must-visit for kids of all abilities. Arrive early to beat crowds.
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Beat the heat at the splash pad – a favorite for younger visitors during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pickleball Play
Court 10 at Mitchell Park is designated for singles without a partner. Great for spontaneous games!
🐶 Doggy Day Out
The fenced dog run is a hit with pups! Bring water for your furry friends.
👨👩👧👦 Playground Paradise
Magical Bridge Playground is a must-visit for kids of all abilities. Arrive early to beat crowds.
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Beat the heat at the splash pad – a favorite for younger visitors during warmer months.
👟 Active Adventures
Bring your gear for tennis, handball, or pickleball. Courts are popular!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mitchell Park is a highly-rated, expansive green space offering a wide array of recreational activities for all ages. Visitors praise the inclusive Magical Bridge Playground, well-maintained sports facilities, and the dedicated dog run. While community events can draw large crowds, the park's overall atmosphere is described as vibrant and family-friendly.
"Large lush green park with multi sport grass and turf fields, tennis courts and a running track. There are also some bars for exercising. Located near the Cubberley Community Center it shares a large parking lot and there is some street parking. The restroom facilities are also well maintained. It’s frequently used for classes and soccer matches but has enough space for multiple teams to be playing at the same time."
Sameer Rakheja
"We brought our dog from San Leandro to avoid the firework chaos. We were taking him to a dog-friendly park. To our surprise there was a community party going on with a musical group, food vendors, community wellness help tents, and games. The park was very clean and well maintained. There were portable toilets and brick and mortar restrooms. It was a pleasant surprise coming to Mitchell Park. We were also surprised they offered free water, but not sure if it was tap or filtered."
Philip S
"Lovely neighborhood park, very active kids playground, tennis, tai chi"
Gladys Chandler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mitchell Park is located at 3700 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options are also available via local bus routes.
Yes, Mitchell Park has a large shared parking lot with the Cubberley Community Center, and additional street parking is often available.
Absolutely! Mitchell Park has bike racks, making it a convenient destination for cyclists. The park is also a pleasant spot for a bike ride itself.
While specific routes vary, local bus services do serve the area around Mitchell Park. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The Magical Bridge Playground is a prominent feature within Mitchell Park. Follow signs for the playground area upon arrival; it's well-integrated into the park's layout.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mitchell Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. All amenities, including playgrounds and sports courts, are free to use.
Mitchell Park generally opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. Specific facility hours, like restrooms, may vary. It's always a good idea to check the official Palo Alto Parks and Recreation website for the most current information.
While some courts might be reservable for organized events, many are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For popular times, especially for pickleball, arriving early is advised.
Yes, Mitchell Park frequently hosts community events, parties, and sports matches. Keep an eye on local event listings or the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation calendar for updates.
The Magical Bridge Playground, located within Mitchell Park, is free for all visitors to enjoy.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Mitchell Park offers a wide range of activities including playgrounds, a splash pad, tennis courts, handball courts, pickleball courts, horseshoe pits, a dog run, and open grassy areas for picnics and relaxation.
Yes, Mitchell Park features the highly acclaimed Magical Bridge Playground, designed for inclusive play for children of all abilities. There are also other play structures.
Yes, Mitchell Park has well-maintained brick-and-mortar restroom facilities, and portable toilets are also available, especially during events.
Yes, Mitchell Park has a dedicated, fenced dog run where dogs can play off-leash. Dogs are also permitted on leash in other park areas.
The park is equipped with tennis courts, handball courts, pickleball courts, and multi-sport grass and turf fields, catering to a variety of athletic interests.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food vendors are sometimes present during community events and parties held at Mitchell Park. It's not a permanent feature, so check event schedules.
Absolutely! Mitchell Park has plenty of open grassy spaces perfect for picnics. You'll also find shaded areas with benches and tables, especially near the playground.
There are no cafes or restaurants directly within Mitchell Park. However, the park is surrounded by various dining options in Palo Alto.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and beverages for picnics and personal enjoyment within the park.
During a community event, visitors reported being offered free water, though it was unclear if it was tap or filtered. It's advisable to bring your own water bottle.
📸 📸 Photography
The Magical Bridge Playground offers colorful and dynamic backdrops. The open green spaces and sports courts provide opportunities for action shots. The late afternoon light is particularly beautiful.
Yes, the park's diverse scenery, from playgrounds to open fields, makes it an excellent location for family photos. The natural light is often favorable.
Drone usage regulations can vary by park and city. It's best to check with the Palo Alto Parks and Recreation Department for specific rules regarding drone operation at Mitchell Park.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, it's always respectful to be mindful of others' privacy, especially in crowded areas or near private events.
The 'golden hour' shortly after sunrise or before sunset offers the most flattering light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the shaded areas offer some relief.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are sometimes food vendors during events, they aren't a permanent fixture. The nearby library also offers convenient restroom access.
👟 Sports Enthusiasts
Recommendation: If you're keen on pickleball, aim for less crowded times or be prepared to share courts. The park's active atmosphere makes it a great place to meet fellow sports enthusiasts.
🐶 Dog Owners
Key takeaway: While the dog run is excellent, remember to bring water for your pet, especially during warmer weather. Dogs are also allowed on leash in other areas of the park, so you can enjoy a stroll together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Magical Bridge Playground
The playground's design emphasizes sensory experiences and imaginative play. The use of artificial grass and even cardboard pieces for sliding adds unique elements that delight children. Adjacent to the playground, visitors can find a library, offering a convenient spot for restrooms and a quiet retreat. The ample parking and spacious layout of Mitchell Park further enhance the accessibility and enjoyment of this remarkable play area.
This playground has garnered significant praise for its innovative approach to play, making it a must-visit for families with children of any age or ability. Its popularity means it can get busy, so planning a visit during off-peak hours is recommended for a more serene experience.
Sports and Recreation Hub
For those looking to engage in organized play, the park has seen interest in pickleball, with specific courts designated for singles play when partners are unavailable. This indicates a vibrant sports community within the park. Beyond organized sports, the park also offers exercise bars, providing opportunities for outdoor fitness routines.
The park's active nature means it's often buzzing with energy, especially on weekends. Whether you're looking to join a game, practice your skills, or simply enjoy watching the action, Mitchell Park offers a dynamic environment for all sports lovers. Remember to bring your equipment and check court availability, as popular times can be busy.
A Canine Companion's Paradise
Visitors have noted the dog run as a positive aspect of the park, especially for those looking to avoid crowded areas or seeking a specific space for their pets. It's a place where dogs can interact, run, and enjoy the outdoors without the constraints of a leash.
While the dog run is a fantastic amenity, it's always a good practice to bring water for your pet, especially during warmer months, and to ensure your dog is well-behaved and socialized for an enjoyable experience for everyone. The park's overall cleanliness contributes to a positive atmosphere for all visitors, including those with four-legged friends.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit