Jaycee Park

Park Overview

Located about half a mile west of downtown Tempe, Jaycee Park spans eight acres of neighborhood green space. Recent renovations have transformed this green space, creating an area where locals of all ages come to play, relax, and connect.

Multi-Generational Center

At the heart of Jaycee Park stands the Multi-Generational Center, a thoughtfully designed facility crafted by local architects Architekton. The center sees a mix of users, from grandparents chatting over coffee to kids arriving for after-school activities, creating a cross-generational community space.

Playground and Water Features

The completely reimagined children's playground is where you'll hear most of the laughter, especially around Tempe's first "splash playground". During Arizona's hot months, this water feature provides a welcome escape - kids enjoy the water while parents get some relief from the desert heat.

Children seem to enjoy the playground's features, including a tire swing and climbable faux vehicles - particularly the fire truck. The separate splash pad typically operates from spring through fall, coinciding with Arizona's hottest months.

Recreational Facilities

Sports enthusiasts have plenty of options with Jaycee's baseball/softball field, basketball courts, and sand volleyball court. The basketball courts come alive with pick-up games during evenings and weekends, while the softball field hosts everything from casual family games to team practices.

Beyond organized sports, there are open lawn areas good for frisbee or picnics, crushed granite paths throughout the grounds, and newly planted shade trees that offer relief from the sun.

Dog-Friendly Area

Four-legged family members haven't been forgotten - the park includes a dedicated dog park section where pups can run off-leash. It's on the smaller side, which many local pet owners actually prefer as it creates a more manageable environment for their dogs to socialize and exercise.

Picnic and Grilling Areas

Scattered across the park, you can find several covered ramadas equipped with picnic tables and BBQ grills. These shaded retreats have witnessed countless birthday celebrations, family reunions, and impromptu weekend cookouts throughout the seasons.

Accessibility and Design

Jaycee Park blends functionality with beauty in its thoughtful design. It sits along a major bicycle route with plenty of bike parking available, making it easily accessible for eco-conscious visitors.

The network of crushed granite paths that weave through the park strike that perfect balance between urban accessibility and natural feel. The desert landscaping elements honor Arizona's unique environment while requiring less water - a smart touch in a desert community.

Community Impact

What makes Jaycee Park truly special isn't just its amenities - it's how it functions as a living, breathing community space. For nearby residents, especially those in apartments or small homes, the park is a shared backyard where neighbors become friends.

The park has undergone significant changes over the years. What was once an underused space has evolved into a place where Tempe's diverse community comes together across ages and backgrounds.