Rinconada Park
A 19-acre urban oasis with a new inclusive playground, Olympic pool, and shaded picnic spots, perfect for family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Rinconada Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 19-acre urban oasis with a new inclusive playground, Olympic pool, and shaded picnic spots, perfect for family fun.
"This one has everything — big playgrounds, tennis courts, and even a pool. It's always a fun place to spend a few hours."
🎯 Combine with Zoo Visit
The playground is right next to the Junior Museum and Zoo, making it a perfect combo for a family day out!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring the park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Inclusive Playground
North side of the park
A modern, inclusive playground with structures for both toddlers and older kids, including a thrilling high slide.
Olympic-Style Swimming Pool
Adjacent to the park
A well-maintained Olympic-sized pool offering a great way to cool off and get some exercise.
Mature Tree Canopy
Throughout the park
Enjoy ample shade from large live oaks and redwoods, creating a serene environment for picnics and relaxation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Perks & Playground Fun
Beyond the Playground
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Combine with Zoo Visit
The playground is right next to the Junior Museum and Zoo, making it a perfect combo for a family day out!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring the park.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
While there's shade, bring sunscreen and hats, especially for the playground and open grassy areas.
🧺 Picnic Ready
Plenty of picnic areas and grassy spots to enjoy a meal. Pack your favorites for a relaxed outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Combine with Zoo Visit
The playground is right next to the Junior Museum and Zoo, making it a perfect combo for a family day out!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring the park.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
While there's shade, bring sunscreen and hats, especially for the playground and open grassy areas.
🧺 Picnic Ready
Plenty of picnic areas and grassy spots to enjoy a meal. Pack your favorites for a relaxed outing.
🏊♀️ Pool Access
Check the pool's schedule and fees if you plan to swim. It's a great amenity for a hot day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rinconada Park is widely praised as one of the best parks in the Bay Area, lauded for its excellent mix of amenities, including a fantastic inclusive playground and a well-maintained swimming pool. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the abundance of shade from mature trees, making it a great spot for families and individuals alike. Some minor drawbacks might include high crowds during peak times.
"one of the best parks in the bay area. great race mix. all kids and families are friendly. kids get along quickly and had a lot of fun. very few teenagers"
kevin cheng
"A decent park in the city. Makes a nice walk with companions or alone. There are swimming pools, playground, picnic areas and other entertainment venues nearby such as Palo Alto zoo and art centers."
Judy Margaret Chen
"This one has everything — big playgrounds, tennis courts, and even a pool. It’s always a fun place to spend a few hours and let kids roam.
-Play Area: Two playgrounds, including inclusive structures.
-Amenities: Swimming pool, tennis courts, picnic areas.
-Shade & Scenery: Mature trees and shaded seating.
-Accessibility: Paved and inclusive playground equipment.
-Parking: Street and on-site parking options.
-Good for: Families, nannies, caregivers, daycares"
Maria del Pilar Hernandez (Tikiland)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rinconada Park is located at 777 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto, CA 94303. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking and on-site lots available. The park is also on the free cross-city bus line, making it convenient for public transport users.
Yes, there are parking options available. You can park in the Junior Museum and Zoo parking lot or find street parking around the park.
Absolutely! Rinconada Park is conveniently located on a free cross-city bus line, making it accessible without a car.
Yes, Rinconada Park is dog-friendly, but all dogs must be kept on a leash.
The park is adjacent to the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, the Rinconada swimming pool, and the library and arts center, offering a variety of activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Rinconada Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there are separate fees for the swimming pool and the Junior Museum and Zoo.
While specific hours for the park grounds aren't always listed, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. The swimming pool and museum have their own operating schedules.
No reservations are required to enter the park itself. For the swimming pool or the Junior Museum and Zoo, it's advisable to check their respective websites for booking information.
The park occasionally hosts events, such as the Holi festival mentioned in one TikTok video. It's best to check local listings or the park's community center for upcoming events.
Yes, the park features an inclusive playground with accessible equipment, ensuring that children of all abilities can enjoy the play structures.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Rinconada Park offers a wide range of activities including two playgrounds (one inclusive), an Olympic-style swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, and large open grassy areas for picnics and relaxation.
The park features a relatively new and spacious playground with two main structures catering to both younger and older children. It includes a thrilling high slide and inclusive play elements.
Yes, Rinconada Park has several picnic areas, many of which are shaded by mature trees, providing a comfortable spot to enjoy a meal outdoors.
The park is known for its mature live oaks and redwoods, offering ample shade throughout the grounds, especially in designated picnic areas.
Many visitors highlight the inclusive playground and the well-maintained Olympic-sized swimming pool as standout features. The combination of nature, recreation, and proximity to other attractions is also highly praised.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the playground, the serene atmosphere under the mature trees, or the action at the swimming pool and sports courts. The park's natural beauty and family-friendly environment offer many picturesque moments.
Yes, the playground is a popular spot for photos, especially with its modern and inclusive design. Remember to be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
The park's mature trees and occasional blooming flowers, as highlighted in one Instagram reel, provide opportunities for nature photography.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for photography. Weekday mornings will also offer fewer people in your shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure safety and the enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check local regulations or contact the park administration for specific rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the playground, families can enjoy the Olympic-sized swimming pool for a refreshing dip, utilize the picnic areas for a relaxed meal, or simply let the kids run around in the open, shaded grassy spaces. The park's friendly atmosphere and ample amenities make it a top choice for a family outing in the Bay Area.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While the swimming pool and the adjacent Junior Museum and Zoo have associated costs, the park itself offers plenty of free recreational opportunities. Utilizing the free cross-city bus line to get there also helps keep transportation costs down.
🏃♀️ Active Individuals
Beyond organized sports, the park's paved paths and open grassy areas are ideal for jogging, walking, or practicing yoga. The mature trees provide a pleasant, shaded environment for outdoor exercise year-round.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rinconada Park Playground Experience
This playground is conveniently located right next to the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, making it a perfect destination for a combined outing. Many parents find it an excellent spot for their children to expend energy after a visit to the zoo. The park also provides ample shade from mature trees, making it a comfortable place to play even on warmer days.
Key features of the playground include swings, slides, climbing structures, and accessible equipment. It's a popular spot for playdates, and caregivers often appreciate the safe and engaging environment it provides for children.
Recreation and Relaxation at Rinconada Park
For sports enthusiasts, the park provides tennis courts and basketball courts, allowing for active play and friendly competition. The expansive grassy areas are perfect for picnics, casual games, or simply lounging under the shade of the park's mature live oaks and redwoods. This blend of active recreation and serene relaxation makes Rinconada Park a well-rounded destination for visitors of all ages.
Amenities like picnic areas, paved pathways, and ample shade contribute to the park's appeal. Its location near other community resources, such as the library and arts center, further enhances its value as a community hub.
Community and Events at Rinconada Park
The park's proximity to the Junior Museum and Zoo and the community center makes it a central point for family activities and educational experiences. Instagram reels have highlighted the park's natural beauty, with educators leading strolls to appreciate blooming flowers, emphasizing its connection to nature and environmental awareness.
This park is described as a place where 'all kids and families are friendly,' fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Its well-located position on a free cross-city bus line also ensures accessibility for a broad range of community members.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit