Roberto Antonio Balermino Park

Indigenous Heritage

Named after Antonio Balermino, an Ohlone native born in 1782, this park sits on land that was once part of a large rancho that stretched across what's now central and west San Jose. This wasn't just any rancho - Balermino owned and managed it himself, leaving a legacy that continues today.

The park's design isn't just pretty - it's meaningful. If you look down, you'll notice the pavement has detailed patterns inspired by the intricate baskets woven by the Ohlone/Muwekma native people of the Bay Area. It's a subtle but beautiful nod to the indigenous history that shaped this region long before the city existed.

Park Features

This cozy 1.8-acre space packs in plenty of options for everyone. Kids will appreciate that the designers thought about different age groups - there are separate playground zones for tots and older children, so the little ones won't get steamrolled by enthusiastic big kids. Instead of the sand that inevitably ends up in shoes and pockets, the playground features modern metal structures with rubber flooring that's easier on knees and cleaner overall.

If you're feeling active, the full basketball court comes with an adjustable rim height (perfect for aspiring players of all sizes). The generous turf areas work well for impromptu football games, soccer matches, or just tossing a frisbee around. There's also a track circling the field where you can walk, jog, or let the kids zoom around on bikes and scooters.

Amenities

Planning to make a day of it? The park offers several picnic tables where you can enjoy lunch or an early dinner with friends and family. There are also grilling areas if you're in the mood for a proper cookout - nothing beats the smell of barbecue in the park on a nice day.

Your four-legged friends are welcome here too, as the park is dog-friendly. Just remember to bring bags to clean up after them. One thing to note before you visit: there are no public restrooms on site, so plan accordingly.

Visitor Information

The park welcomes visitors from 8AM to 6PM every day of the week. You'll need to find street parking, which can be a bit challenging since the park sits in a residential area. Almaden Road, where the park is located, tends to see moderate to heavy traffic throughout the day, so you might want to allow a little extra time to find a spot.