Arlington Park

Play & Recreation

Situated in the heart of Riverside, California, Arlington Park spans a cozy 5.1 acres and is the neighborhood's go-to spot for outdoor fun and community gathering.

Kids will love the playground area with its variety of slides and about eight swings. Instead of the typical wood chips, the playground has a soft, sponge-like surface - meaning fewer scraped knees for playing children. During warmer months, you can cool off at the park's 80-foot swimming pool, meant for both casual splashing and dedicated lap swimming. The pool even features a diving board for those feeling a bit adventurous. Just note that pool hours vary seasonally, so it's worth checking availability before grabbing your towel and sunscreen.

Sports & Activities

For those feeling athletic, Arlington Park offers several options. The park features two tennis courts with lighting for evening matches. Interestingly, one court has been transformed to house four pickleball courts - reflecting the growing popularity of this paddle sport.

Basketball enthusiasts will appreciate the full-sized basketball court complete with all the proper markings you'd expect: free-throw lines, three-point arcs, and mid-court boundaries. The open grounds also provide space for impromptu soccer games or baseball practice.

Just a heads-up: the tennis courts do have some cracks that might affect your game. On the bright side, there's a small tennis wall attached to the fence where you can practice your swing solo.

Chill-Out Spaces

Not in the mood for sports? The park offers plenty of picnic tables and benches scattered throughout for relaxing or enjoying a packed lunch. There's also a dedicated shade shelter with additional tables - ideal for family gatherings or meeting up with friends.

One of Arlington's best features is its magnificent mature trees that cast cooling shadows across the grounds. These natural umbrellas make even the hottest California days bearable.

The park is encircled by 0.45 miles of well-lit sidewalks, making it ideal for a quick jog, evening stroll, or walking your four-legged friend.

Extra Perks

Speaking of four-legged friends, Arlington Park is dog-friendly, so you can bring your pup along to enjoy the open grassy areas.

The park is also home to the Youth Center of Innovation, which runs various STEAM programs (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) for local kids and teens - blending outdoor recreation with educational opportunities.

You'll discover street parking available around the perimeter, and if you work up an appetite, there are several restaurants within walking distance.

While Arlington Park's diverse amenities make it a local favorite, this popularity means it can get quite busy during holidays and weekends. A little planning goes a long way if you're hoping for a more peaceful visit.