Recreation Park

A Journey Through Time and Trees

Dating back to 1923, Recreation Park sprawls across 210.9 acres in southeast Long Beach, a green oasis with roots deeper than most of its trees. After Long Beach voters said "yes" to a bond issue, the city acquired this land which had been home to an 18-hole golf course built in 1919 by Col. Charles Drake and Virginia Country Club members. One of the park's notable features is the historic bandshell from 1929, with Spanish Baroque architecture that has been part of community gatherings for nearly a century.

For Golf Enthusiasts

If golf is your game, the park offers both 18-hole and 9-hole courses, with the larger course ranking among the nation's busiest. As you play, you'll navigate gently rolling hills while fairways lined with diverse trees provide both challenge and charm.

Sports Central

Tennis, anyone? The Billie Jean King Tennis Center received an upgrade with grandstand additions in 1972, offering a top-notch facility for players of all levels. Baseball fans haven't been forgotten either - the park houses both Joe Rodgers Field and Blair Field, with the current Blair Field stadium having replaced a smaller 1,000-seat field back in 1957.

Natural Retreats

Need a moment of tranquility? The southern section's "Woodlands area" features a Eucalyptus forest that provides a nice escape from urban life. The park also incorporates the Colorado Lagoon, another city park just south of the 9-hole golf course.

There are plenty of picnic benches scattered throughout the grounds, making this an ideal spot for family gatherings or casual lunches. Keep an eye out for the resident squirrels that seem to have their own bustling community within the park.

Kid-Friendly Adventures

In 2022, the playground got a serious $1.9 million glow-up, creating a space that's both modern and accessible. Kids particularly love the dinosaur-themed playground with its slides and dinosaur fossil digging zones - bring sand toys and brushes if you have a budding paleontologist on your hands!

The thoughtfully designed play area includes structures for children of different age groups, plus swings and other equipment that keep the little ones entertained for hours.

Community Hub

The "Woodlands area" houses the "Bruin Den," a community recreation center built in 1957 that functions as the heart of many park activities. From art classes to fitness programs, walking groups to aerobics sessions, there's something for everyone, regardless of age.

Many community groups call Recreation Park their meeting place, and you can even book areas for private events. The bandshell area, with its shaded grass seating, transforms into an excellent venue for concerts and events like the popular Battle of the Bands.

For the Four-Legged Friends

Recreation Park includes a dedicated dog park where dogs can run off-leash in a safe, enclosed space separate from the main recreation areas.

Worth Noting

The park offers a small walking trail for those looking to get their steps in, plus a fly fishing pond for angling enthusiasts. Parking is free, however you might find yourself circling for a spot during busy weekend hours. Note that a one-way street cuts through the park, with the entrance accessible from 7th Street.