John F Kennedy Park

A Green Oasis in Hayward

Located in Hayward, California, John F Kennedy Park stretches across 13.3 acres of green space. This spacious park got a major facelift that wrapped up in April 2022 - a $19.2 million renovation completed in April 2022. The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) keeps things running smoothly here, with regular maintenance and a Park Ranger patrolling to ensure everyone stays safe while having fun.

Not Your Average Playground

The playground features custom farm-themed equipment - there's a tractor to climb on, a barn to explore, a truck to pretend-drive, and even a "corn maze" to navigate through.

The playground includes multiple slides and climbing structures for active play. One of the standout features has to be the multi-rider swings that fit up to five children at once - fantastic for making new playground buddies! Fair warning: weekends can get pretty packed, but on quieter days, the smooth pathways around the playground make for an ideal spot for little ones to practice their biking and scootering skills.

Weekend Rides That Delight

When Saturday and Sunday roll around (from 11AM to 4PM, weather cooperating), the park transforms with charming amusement rides that feel like a mini carnival. Take a spin on the historic carousel built in 1955, hop aboard the miniature train that chugs around the park on narrow tracks, or get dizzy with delight on the newly added teacup ride.

You'll need to bring cash for these attractions - tickets cost $3 per person for each ride, and everyone needs one, even the tiniest visitors. Just remember to purchase your tickets before 3:30 PM. The train ride tends to be the crowd favorite, bringing smiles to faces young and old alike.

Perfect Picnic Paradise

Kennedy Park offers numerous picnic spots scattered throughout. Many tables sit under shaded pavilions, offering a respite from the California sun. If you're planning something special, you can reserve designated picnic areas in advance through HARD, but there are plenty of first-come, first-served spots for spontaneous outings.

With BBQ grills readily available, the park is suitable for birthday celebrations, family gatherings, and weekend cookouts. The expansive grassy areas provide ample room to toss a frisbee, kick a soccer ball, or simply stretch out for some cloud-watching.

Thoughtful Touches Throughout

The recent renovation didn't miss the essentials - you'll come across clean, well-maintained restrooms, drinking fountains to stay hydrated, and plenty of parking. The freshly paved pathways around the park are smooth enough for a pleasant stroll, morning jog, or wobbly first bike rides.

Feel free to bring your four-legged friends along, as the park is dog-friendly as long as they stay leashed. And when the weekend rides are running, a snack bar opens up to satisfy those mid-adventure munchies.

A Touch of History

Adding some historical charm to your visit, Kennedy Park sits right next to the historic McConaghy House from 1886, now preserved as a museum. The renovation thoughtfully created a new event lawn area that bridges these two spaces, blending recreation with a touch of local heritage.

While the park's former petting zoo was removed during renovations, you might still catch animal education programs and special events that occasionally take place in partnership with a nearby nature center - a little nod to the park's animal-friendly past.