Arredondo Park

Park History

Located in Tempe, Arizona, Arredondo Park spans a cozy 4 acres next to Arredondo Elementary School. Established in 1972, this nearby park pays tribute to Alejandro (1897-1959) and Josefa (Gurrola) (1911-1991) Arredondo, a couple whose commitment to education left a lasting impact on the community.

The Arredondo legacy runs deep here. Alejandro and Josefa raised eleven children, many of whom followed in their parents' footsteps, graduating from Arizona State University and becoming educators themselves. This educational heritage connects the park to the adjacent elementary school, combining learning and leisure in one location.

Recent Improvements

The park was recently renovated, with a complete playground update featuring a baseball theme. The park has added accessible walkways within the grounds, constructed a new picnic ramada just north of the playground, and installed improved lighting around the play areas.

These upgrades are part of Tempe's broader Capital Improvement Program, which is pumping over $60 million into the city's parks. The updates have improved this neighborhood space, making it more functional and accessible.

Recreational Facilities

Despite its modest size, Arredondo Park packs in plenty of recreational options. You'll come across basketball courts for shooting hoops, picnic tables (some nicely sheltered) for outdoor meals, and a well-maintained playground that local families consider one of the area's hidden treasures.

The park includes fitness equipment for adults alongside the children's play areas. This setup allows parents to exercise while watching their children - accommodating visitors of different ages.

Amenities and Environment

One of the park's best features is its abundance of mature trees that cast natural shade throughout the grounds, particularly during those hot Arizona afternoons. The clean, well-maintained environment creates a pleasant atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.

There's a handy multi-level water station available when you need to rehydrate, however it's worth noting there aren't any public restrooms on site. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6 AM until midnight, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the space even after sunset.

Visitor Experience

Arredondo Park offers that peaceful neighborhood park vibe that's increasingly hard to find. It rarely feels crowded, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings or low-key afternoon outings. The convenient parking near the entrance means you won't have to lug your picnic supplies far.

Dog walkers appreciate that it's typically cleaner than most parks, while the generous green spaces beneath those mature trees create inviting spots to relax. Its intimate size and residential setting make Arredondo Park an ideal escape when you're looking for a quiet outdoor moment in Tempe.