Cedar-Rose Park

The Story Behind the Park

Situated in Berkeley, California, Cedar-Rose Park spans a generous 4.94 acres along what used to be the Santa Fe Railroad right-of-way, plus some additional land purchased by the city. Back in 1974, Berkeley residents voted to pass a bond measure that helped fund this green space through a combination of Park Bond Act and Measure Y money. Pretty cool how community action can transform abandoned railway tracks into something everyone can enjoy!

Play Areas and Open Space

If you're visiting with kids, you're in luck. The park features two distinct playgrounds to keep the little ones entertained. There's a fully enclosed area specifically designed for toddlers ages 2-5 (nicely separated from where dogs hang out), and another playground that caters to the 5-12 crowd.

The multi-purpose turf field is at the heart of Cedar-Rose. This sprawling green space hosts casual soccer games, picnics, outdoor movie nights, the annual Harvest Festival, and sometimes performances by the San Francisco Mime Troupe. It's a versatile space where neighbors often gather.

Get Your Game On

For those feeling athletic, Cedar-Rose offers several well-maintained sports options. You'll come across basketball courts, tennis courts, and a volleyball court scattered throughout the grounds. The pickleball courts have become a major draw recently - they come complete with nets and can even be reserved ahead of time.

If racquetball is more your style, just head across Cedar Street to the adjacent area where a public court awaits. No matter if you're a serious competitor or just looking for some casual fun, the variety of courts accommodates all skill levels.

Getting Around and Getting Comfortable

Paved pathways wind through the entire park, making it ideal for a quick jog, a leisurely stroll, or a bike ride. Cedar-Rose conveniently connects to the Ohlone Greenway, so cyclists and pedestrians can easily continue their journey north or south through Berkeley.

Need to take a break? You'll come across picnic areas with benches and tables throughout - the main picnic area sits on the lawn, with additional tables near the Cedar Street playground. Planning a cookout? The park's barbecue grills are ideal for family gatherings or birthday celebrations.

When nature calls, there's a single-occupant public restroom on the Cedar Street side. And here's a fun fact: the park sits partially above the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) tunnel between North Berkeley and El Cerrito stations, making it super accessible via public transportation.

Community Vibes

Cedar-Rose functions as a neighborhood meeting place with its sunny, open layout that works well for outdoor yoga, casual meetups, or simply lounging with a good book.

Dog owners appreciate the expansive lawn area, while families make regular use of the playgrounds. On any given day, you might see kids kicking soccer balls, friends sharing lunch on a blanket, or neighbors catching up while their dogs play. It's this everyday mix of activities that makes Cedar-Rose such a cherished green space in the heart of Berkeley.