Lincoln Square Park

A Piece of Oakland History

Tucked into the heart of Oakland's Chinatown neighborhood, Lincoln Square Park has been bringing people together since the 1850s. As one of Oakland's seven original public squares, this 1.75-acre urban retreat has witnessed generations of community life unfold beneath its trees.

Swings with red poles in the playground area

Photo: mliu92 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Where Everyone Comes Together

On any given day, between 1,000 and 1,500 people make their way through Lincoln Square Park, creating a lively atmosphere that's hard to miss. It's a true melting pot where Oakland's diverse cultural tapestry is on full display. The thoughtful design balances active recreation areas with quieter spaces, making it possible to find either excitement or tranquility, depending on what you're seeking. Many locals consider it one of the most popular parks and recreation centers in Oakland.

Pirate ship playground structure with blue safety surface

Photo: mliu92 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

What Makes It Special

The junk boat playground stands as the park's most distinctive landmark. Dedicated in 1969, this play structure isn't just fun for kids - it's a cultural touchstone designed to resemble a traditional Chinese junk boat, complete with educational elements that share its historical significance.

The park's recreation center buzzes with activity throughout the week, offering programs for everyone from toddlers to seniors. If you arrive early in the morning, you'll likely catch groups of seniors gracefully practicing tai chi, a cherished daily ritual that's become something of a park tradition.

Places to Play

Active types gravitate toward the basketball courts, which draw players from across Oakland looking for a good game. There's also a compact soccer field that makes the most of the available space, fitness equipment for those looking to squeeze in a workout, and open areas that adapt to whatever activity you have in mind.

Parents appreciate the playground's plush, cushioned surface - a thoughtful safety feature for energetic little ones prone to tumbles. Lincoln Square manages to accommodate many different activities simultaneously while still maintaining enough space for everyone.

Colorful murals adorn the walls of this building

Photo: mliu92 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Community Celebrations

The park's calendar fills up with events that bring neighbors together during the year. There's the annual pancake and sausage breakfast - a tradition going strong for over 67 years - complete with performances that showcase local talent.

Events like "C-Town Nights" and various cultural celebrations transform the park into a vibrant gathering space where the neighborhood's rich heritage takes center stage.

A mural with animals decorates this wall in the park's west section

Photo: mliu92 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A Neighborhood Essential

For students at the adjacent Lincoln Elementary School, the park is an extended campus where recess and PE classes unfold daily. But its importance stretches beyond school hours.

With its central location and diverse offerings, Lincoln Square Park serves many community needs, hosting everything from morning exercises to afternoon gatherings. People of different ages and backgrounds regularly share the space.

Looking Forward

Over the years, the park has evolved through thoughtful renovations that keep pace with community needs. Recent efforts have focused on expanding the recreation center to accommodate more programs and improve its resilience features.

Exciting plans are in motion to develop an entirely new recreation center on the current site - a project that promises to benefit not just Oakland Chinatown but the entire city when completed.