Margaret S. Hayward Playground

History and Namesake

Situated in the Western Addition neighborhood, Margaret S. Hayward Playground spans 6 acres in the heart of San Francisco. It bears the name of Margaret S. Hayward, a trailblazer who championed public playgrounds in the city and served as a charter member of San Francisco's playground commission.

A Fresh New Look

November 2020 marked a new chapter for this community space when it reopened after a massive $28 million makeover, primarily funded by the San Francisco Clean and Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond. What was once a basic recreational area now features a redesigned layout that creates a unified neighborhood space with improved accessibility for everyone.

The transformation has been well-received by locals. The field now features modern design elements and well-maintained amenities.

What You'll Find Here

Kids gravitate toward the central children's play area with its unique features - a rope tunnel structure that beckons little climbers, various climbing equipment, and an unconventional swing that older children particularly enjoy. There's also a cement slide (just watch out on sunny days when it can get toasty!), plus a spacious paved area where kids can zoom around on bikes and scooters.

The park's community clubhouse features a teaching kitchen and versatile spaces for senior and youth programming, including after-school activities. The thoughtfully designed plaza serves multiple generations and can transform into a stage for neighborhood performances.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the improved basketball courts at both ends of the park, complete with good lighting that automatically shuts off at closing time. There's also a new multi-use sports field ideal for impromptu games, a compact indoor soccer pitch, and two expanded baseball/softball fields now featuring synthetic turf.

In a progressive step, the renovation introduced San Francisco's first all-gender restrooms in a new park development. These facilities are clean, wheelchair accessible, and often staffed to assist visitors.

Get Active

The sporting options here don't disappoint. The tennis courts are well-maintained and lit for evening play, however you might need to wait your turn during busy times as there are only two courts available. Soccer players will love the full-sized soccer fields with high-quality artificial turf that double as baseball/softball fields when needed.

Families with kids - especially those 5 and older - will find the playground offers a variety of engaging play structures. Parents can keep an eye on the action from nearby picnic tables, well-suited for a casual lunch while the kids play.

Good to Know

You can find several water filling stations across the grounds - handy for staying hydrated during active days. From certain spots in the park, you can catch glimpses of iconic San Francisco landmarks like Coit Tower and City Hall.

If you're driving, street parking is available in the surrounding area, but be sure to carefully read all parking signs - some spots require permits. The park maintains a safe, welcoming atmosphere and tends to be popular with families.

More Than a Park

Margaret S. Hayward Playground offers diverse facilities for sports, play, and gatherings. It's popular for school field trips and family outings, with clean facilities and varied amenities throughout the grounds.