Civic Space Park

Urban Oasis

Opening in April 2009, Civic Space Park has served as a 2.5-acre green bridge between Arizona State University's downtown campus and the surrounding Phoenix neighborhood. The park's sprawling lawns and open grassy areas provide a welcome breath of fresh air amid the city's concrete and glass.

Whether you want to stretch out with a book, enjoy a casual picnic, or simply take a moment to decompress, these well-kept green spaces provide a pleasant setting.

Iconic Art Installation

You can't miss the park's crowning jewel - Janet Echelman's captivating sculpture "Her Secret is Patience." This magnificent net-like creation hovers above the park, dancing slightly with the breeze during the day before transforming after sunset.

The evening truly brings this masterpiece to life, as changing colored lights illuminate the sculpture against the dark sky. It's truly magical to witness - an excellent backdrop for contemplation or a memorable photo. The installation elegantly bridges the gap between artistic expression and our connection to both urban and natural environments.

The complex netting of Her Secret Is Patience rises behind autumn foliage

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Sustainable Design

Beyond its beauty, Civic Space Park showcases thoughtful environmental design. Once the trees and plants reach full maturity, they'll shade over 70% of the park - a welcome relief from Phoenix's notorious summer heat.

The park's creators didn't stop there. The permeable concrete and pavers reduce heat reflection while allowing rainwater to soak through naturally. Look up and you'll notice solar panels mounted on shade structures generating 75 kilowatts of power - enough to handle the park's electrical needs.

Every drop of stormwater gets collected on-site and channeled into underground chambers, helping replenish the local groundwater supply.

Janet Echelman's Her Secret Is Patience illuminated in blue light against the Phoenix night sky

Photo: Alan Stark (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Historic Building

History buffs will appreciate the A.E. England Building that anchors one side of the park. Originally a 1920s car dealership, this beautifully renovated structure now houses retail space and a community meeting room where various special events take place.

The building complements the park, creating a space where past meets present.

The park's glowing centerpiece sculpture is an impressive sight

Photo: Alan Stark (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Amenities and Features

Comfort wasn't an afterthought here. You'll find plenty of benches scattered throughout, along with shaded areas beneath mature trees where you can escape the Arizona sun. During warmer months, the splash pad water feature (when operational) offers a refreshing way to cool down.

The mix of open areas, paved walkways, and comfortable seating makes this park versatile - suitable for a quiet moment of reflection or a social gathering.

A long pedestrian path stretches along East Taylor Mall across from the park

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Community Activities

With roughly 43 free public events each year, the park stays vibrant and engaging. From outdoor movie screenings and concerts to art exhibitions and community yoga sessions, there's always something happening that brings people together.

It's a popular meeting point for students, downtown professionals, and local residents.

An early morning view of the park grounds

Photo: Jesse James (CC BY 2.0)

Accessibility

Staying true to its sustainable vision, the park encourages visitors to arrive via public transportation, with light rail and bus stations conveniently nearby. You won't find dedicated parking spaces here - a deliberate choice that promotes walking and mass transit use.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 5 AM to 11 PM, accommodating both early birds and night owls looking for a peaceful urban escape.