Grove Park

Play & Recreation Spots

Stretching across 3.09 acres, Grove Park is a 3.09-acre green space in Berkeley for playing, relaxing, and socializing.

The spacious grassy field at the heart of the park is ideal for impromptu soccer games, frisbee sessions, or just lounging around on a sunny day. Baseball fans will appreciate the recently renovated baseball diamond where you can practice your swing or catch a neighborhood game.

The lighted tennis courts come complete with small bleachers for spectators - great for both serious players and weekend warriors alike. Just keep in mind that these courts are popular, so you might need to reserve them through the City if you're planning a match. Basketball enthusiasts haven't been forgotten either - the park features basketball courts with adjustable height rims that occasionally transform into something entirely different, hosting community events like roller skating complete with DJ beats. Night owls can take advantage of the courts' lighting, which stays on until about 10:30 PM.

Kid-Friendly Zones

There are two separate playground areas for children of different ages. There's a fully fenced tot lot where the smallest adventurers can play safely, plus a dedicated space for the school-age crowd. The playground just got a complete makeover in 2023-2024 and is sporting brand new equipment.

The showstopper in the larger playground is definitely the 20-foot tall, three-dimensional DNA tower structure with an epic slide that will have kids climbing up just to zoom down again. The renovation brought in tons of climbing structures that are excellent for kids who love a physical challenge.

Community Hub

The Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Services Center - known locally as YAP - is located within the park and serves Berkeley residents.

You'll come across restrooms conveniently located near the sports courts, so you don't have to cut your park day short. One thing to note: shade can be hard to come by, especially around the playgrounds, so remember to bring hats and sunscreen during those warmer months.

Good to Know

Like any beloved neighborhood spot, Grove Park can get pretty busy, especially when the weekend rolls around. The tennis and basketball courts often fill up with pickup games during peak hours.

Street parking surrounds the park, and you'll have an easier time finding a spot on weekdays than during weekend rushes. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6 AM to 10 PM.

A Bit of History

Grove Park has been part of Berkeley's story since 1927, when the city began piecing together parcels of land to create this community space.

The park has grown and evolved over the decades, with the addition of the Grove Recreation Center in 1950 and various improvements during the 1980s. Recent years have seen renovations to both the playground and baseball field, keeping the park's facilities updated and well-maintained.