East Hillsdale Park

History and Background

East Hillsdale Park is located in San Mateo, California, and is affectionately known by locals as Hidden Park. This neighborhood space has been around for over two decades, however its play area hasn't seen major upgrades in about 20 years. Back then, they added a cozy toddler play zone and a spiral slide to complement the existing facilities. As you might guess, those once-exciting playground features are now showing their age, which has sparked the current renewal efforts.

A Fresh Start Underway

Changes are currently underway. East Hillsdale Park is in the midst of a transformation as part of the San Mateo Parks and Recreation capital improvement plan. This isn't just any update - the project aims to completely reimagine this community space.

What's nice is that local residents have had a say in the process, with community input sessions helping shape the new design. If you're planning a visit, keep in mind that construction is currently in progress, with everything expected to be ready by winter 2024.

What You'll Find

The park offers generous open lawn areas that, while not officially designated for sports, often host impromptu games by neighborhood kids. These green spaces provide plenty of room to stretch your legs, relax with a book, or take your four-legged friend for a stroll.

There's a playground area, but it's definitely showing its years. The tennis courts, on the other hand, stand out as one of the better-maintained features of the park.

Shaded walking paths meander throughout, making this a pleasant spot for your morning jog or afternoon walk. On warmer days, you'll appreciate the abundance of mature shade trees that offer a cool respite from the California sun.

The Overall Experience

What makes East Hillsdale Park special is its peaceful atmosphere. It's the kind of place where you can actually hear birds singing rather than traffic noise. The diverse mix of visitors - families with little ones, people walking their dogs, and tennis players - creates a friendly, neighborhood vibe.

The park is generally well-kept and provides a safe environment for everyone in the community. Its blend of recreational options and open spaces makes it a versatile retreat whether you're looking for activity or simply a quiet moment outdoors.