Madden Park

A Little Urban Retreat

Tucked between apartment buildings and condos in San Jose, Madden Park might be small at just 0.31 acres, but it punches above its weight as a neighborhood breathing space. Sitting right where Madden Avenue meets North Jackson Avenue, this compact green spot has become something of a backyard for locals living in the surrounding residential complexes.

While you won't find sprawling fields or elaborate facilities here, this micro park does exactly what it needs to do - provide a slice of nature in the midst of city living.

Little Ones' Paradise

What Madden Park lacks in size, it makes up for with thoughtfulness. The heart of this space is a tot lot specifically designed for 2-5 year olds. If you've got preschoolers or toddlers in tow, you'll appreciate having a safe, age-appropriate play area where the little ones can burn off some energy without competing with bigger kids for equipment.

The playground is perfectly scaled for smaller children, making it an ideal spot for neighborhood families looking for a quick outdoor adventure close to home.

What to Know Before You Go

Bringing Fido along? Good news - the park is dog-friendly, so your four-legged family members are welcome to join in on the fresh air and sunshine. Just remember there are no public restrooms here, so plan accordingly for your visit.

Also worth noting - there are zero parking facilities at Madden Park. It's really designed for locals who can walk over, so if you're coming from further afield, you'll want to think about alternative transportation options rather than driving.

Behind the Scenes

The City of San José's Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services department keeps Madden Park maintained and ready for visitors. While you won't find extensive amenities here, what this little green space offers is something perhaps more valuable - a moment of outdoor reprieve just steps from home for many urban dwellers.

Small but mighty, Madden Park reminds us that sometimes all we need is a patch of green to take a breath and reconnect with the outdoors.