William Land Park
Sacramento's expansive urban oasis, featuring a zoo, Fairytale Town, golf, and serene ponds. A perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
William Land Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sacramento's expansive urban oasis, featuring a zoo, Fairytale Town, golf, and serene ponds. A perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
"A hidden oasis in Sacramento, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful place to unwind."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
🧘♀️ Free Yoga Sessions
Join free yoga in the park for a refreshing start to your day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lily Pond Serenity
Lily Pond Area
A peaceful retreat with stunning lotus flowers and charming ducks. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or quiet contemplation.
Sacramento Zoo
Within William Land Park
Discover diverse wildlife in a family-friendly setting. A beloved attraction for all ages, offering a glimpse into the animal kingdom.
Fairytale Town
Within William Land Park
A whimsical wonderland for children, bringing storybooks to life with charming play areas and attractions.
Scenic Walking Paths
Throughout the park
Enjoy miles of shaded paths, perfect for a leisurely walk, jog, or bike ride amidst beautiful landscaping.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Oasis
Event Awareness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
🧘♀️ Free Yoga Sessions
Join free yoga in the park for a refreshing start to your day.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this large park. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Essentials
Pack a lunch and enjoy the many barbecue areas and tables. :picnic_table:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the crowds and secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
🧘♀️ Free Yoga Sessions
Join free yoga in the park for a refreshing start to your day.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this large park. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Essentials
Pack a lunch and enjoy the many barbecue areas and tables. :picnic_table:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Avoid surprises and plan around festivals or sports games.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
William Land Park is widely praised as a beautiful and versatile green space in Sacramento, offering something for everyone. Visitors rave about the serene Lily Pond, the family-friendly Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town, and the extensive walking paths. While generally well-loved, some mention that certain areas could benefit from updated facilities.
"I recently visited William Land Regional Park, also known as the Lily Pond, and it truly is a hidden oasis in Sacramento. Having been to Sacramento hundreds of times, this was my first visit—and I’m so glad I finally came.
The park offers plenty of free parking and beautiful, peaceful walking paths surrounded by stunning lotus flowers in full bloom. The friendly ducks wandering the grassy areas add a charming touch to the serene environment.
Whether you want a relaxing stroll, a quiet moment in nature, or just a peaceful place to unwind, this park is perfect. It’s a wonderful spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy some calm away from the city buzz.
If you haven’t been, I highly recommend stopping by to experience this lovely natural retreat!"
Kelly Cambridgeport
"Tree-filled city park with a golf course, ponds full of geese, and barbecue areas with tables. I enjoyed walking in the shade along 13th Avenue, which has nice architecture homes. Nearby attractions: Zoo, Fairytale Town."
Ekaterina Machneva
"We visited William Land Park for the International Children's Festival. The park is HUGE and beautiful. I had a booth there for The Cloth Option which is a cloth diaper advocacy group. The Cloth Option helps families with diapers free of charge with no income guidelines. This is the ONLY diaper assistance program that has no income guidelines at this point in time. Visit theclothoption.org to apply for diapers today."
Cheyenne Bridgeman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
William Land Park is easily accessible by car, located just south of downtown Sacramento. Major routes like I-5 and Highway 99 provide convenient access. Public transportation options are also available via Sacramento Regional Transit buses.
Yes, the park offers ample free parking throughout its various sections, including near the zoo, Fairytale Town, and sports fields. Arriving early is recommended on busy days.
Absolutely! The park is connected to Sacramento's extensive bike trail network, making it a great destination for cyclists. Pedestrian access is also easy from surrounding neighborhoods.
Given its size, consider using a park map or a navigation app. The paved paths are great for walking and biking, connecting most of the major attractions.
The park grounds are free to enter and explore. However, individual attractions within the park, such as the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town, have their own admission fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, William Land Park itself is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. You can freely roam the grounds and enjoy the open spaces.
The park grounds are generally open from dawn until dusk. However, specific attractions within the park, like the zoo and Fairytale Town, have their own operating hours, which vary. It's best to check their individual schedules.
Discounts may be available for the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town, often through local memberships, group rates, or special promotions. Check their respective websites for current offers.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book tickets for the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town online in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to save time and guarantee entry.
Consider purchasing a 'Park Hopper' or combo ticket if available for the zoo and Fairytale Town, or plan your visit to dedicate separate times to each attraction to fully enjoy them.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the serene Lily Pond with its lotus flowers, the Sacramento Zoo, and the enchanting Fairytale Town. The park also features golf courses, sports fields, and beautiful walking paths.
Absolutely! Fairytale Town is specifically designed for kids, and the zoo is a hit. The open green spaces and playgrounds also make it a fantastic family destination.
Yes, the park has numerous picnic areas with tables and barbecue grills, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or gathering.
You can enjoy leisurely walks, jogging, biking on the scenic paths, playing sports on the fields, golfing, or simply relaxing by the ponds.
Most of the main paths and attractions are paved and accessible, making it generally stroller and wheelchair friendly. Some natural areas might be less so.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town have their own cafes or snack bars offering food and drinks. You can also find food vendors during special events.
Absolutely! William Land Park is a great place for picnics. There are many designated picnic areas with tables, and you're welcome to bring your own food and beverages.
The surrounding Land Park neighborhood and nearby Midtown Sacramento offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit any taste and budget.
Packing a picnic is a popular and cost-effective option. If dining out, explore the diverse culinary scene in nearby Midtown for a post-park meal.
Generally, alcohol consumption is not permitted in public parks in Sacramento, including William Land Park, unless part of a permitted special event. It's best to check park regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The Lily Pond with its blooming lotus flowers offers stunning natural beauty. The charming architecture of Fairytale Town and the diverse animals at the zoo also make for great photo opportunities.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed at both the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town. However, professional photography or videography may require permits.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's advisable to check with the park authorities or the city of Sacramento for specific drone regulations.
Nature photography at the Lily Pond, family portraits, and candid shots of children enjoying Fairytale Town are very popular. The park's diverse landscapes also lend themselves to landscape photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Don't forget to explore the open green spaces for picnics and playground fun. The park's numerous walking paths are also great for strollers. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are primarily at the zoo and Fairytale Town.
🏃♀️ Active Individuals & Fitness Enthusiasts
Golfers will appreciate the two golf courses within the park. The scenic paths also make it a great place for a brisk walk or even a longer endurance training session. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate gear for your chosen activity.
🌳 Nature Lovers & Relaxation Seekers
The park's numerous shaded walking paths provide a perfect setting for a quiet stroll amidst mature trees. It's an ideal place to unwind, read a book, or simply enjoy the natural beauty away from the city's hustle and bustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Sacramento Zoo
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here to fully appreciate the exhibits. The zoo offers various amenities like a gift shop and snack bar. Consider checking their schedule for keeper talks or feeding demonstrations, which add an educational and engaging element to your visit.
Pro-tip: Look for special events or membership deals, as they can offer great value. The zoo's location within the larger William Land Park also means you can easily combine your visit with other park activities.
The Magic of Fairytale Town
This attraction is specifically designed for younger children, offering a safe and imaginative environment for play and exploration. It's a place where children can burn off energy while engaging their creativity. The park often hosts special events, puppet shows, and seasonal activities that add to the fun.
Insider tip: Check their calendar for special events like ' দিওয়ালি' or 'Dia de los Muertos' celebrations, which offer cultural enrichment alongside the fairytale magic. Comfortable shoes are a must, as kids will want to run and play throughout the park.
William Land Park's Green Spaces and Recreation
The park's extensive network of walking and biking paths is a major draw. These shaded trails wind through mature trees and alongside picturesque ponds, offering a refreshing escape for exercise or a leisurely stroll. The Lily Pond area, in particular, is a tranquil spot known for its beautiful lotus flowers and resident ducks, making it a favorite for photographers and those seeking a peaceful moment.
Many visitors appreciate the park's picnic facilities, complete with tables and barbecue pits, making it an ideal location for family gatherings and outdoor dining. The combination of natural beauty and recreational amenities makes William Land Park a versatile destination for a wide range of activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit