A Place To Play

Room to Roam and Play

Spanning an impressive 77.16 acres in Santa Rosa, California, A Place To Play lives up to its name. This large community park has something for just about everyone, whether you're looking to kick a ball around or simply enjoy some fresh air.

Sports enthusiasts will feel right at home with six soccer fields and two baseball fields dotting the landscape. Local teams frequently practice here, and the fields regularly host tournaments for players of all ages. Just a heads up - some of the baseball fields have developed a few gopher holes over time, so watch your step if you're rounding the bases.

Natural Beauty

At the heart of the park sits a peaceful fishing lagoon that doubles as a wildlife habitat. You'll likely spot ducks paddling about and other waterfowl going about their day. If fishing is your thing, cast a line into the stocked lake and see what bites.

Wrap around the lagoon and follow the creek bed on a network of trails that provide perfect routes for your morning jog, afternoon stroll, or mindful nature walk. The paths offer a nice escape from the more active areas of the park.

Fun for Everyone

Kids will make a beeline for the playground area, complete with climbing structures and swings. The equipment is cleverly designed so children can traverse from one side to the other without ever touching the ground - a feature that turns an ordinary playground visit into an exciting challenge.

Four-legged family members haven't been forgotten. The dog park provides separate spaces for large and small dogs to run off-leash and make new friends. It's spacious, well-kept, and a favorite gathering spot for local dog owners and their pets.

Beyond the Basics

One of the more unexpected features is the RC car track where remote-control vehicle enthusiasts gather to race and practice jumps. This well-maintained track adds a unique dimension to the park's recreational offerings.

The size of A Place To Play means you can join in on a lively soccer tournament on one end while finding a peaceful spot to read a book on the other.

Picnics and Open Spaces

Scattered across the grounds are picnic tables where you can enjoy an outdoor meal or small gathering. The generous open grass areas invite impromptu games of frisbee, kite flying, or simply sprawling out on a blanket to cloud-watch.

Just note that shade can be limited in some areas, so bringing a hat and sunscreen is a good idea, especially during summer months.

Practical Matters

When nature calls, you can find permanent restroom facilities as well as portable toilets across the park. Be aware that during busy tournament weekends, these facilities can get crowded and maintenance may vary.

Ample parking runs along the length of the fields, however spaces fill quickly during special events and tournaments. The layout makes it relatively easy to access most areas of the park without a long trek from your car.

Looking Forward

A Place To Play also has an environmental function with its water reclamation pond, which helps the city manage water resources more efficiently.

The park continues to evolve, with plans in the works for all-weather athletic fields and a nature pavilion that will enhance both recreational opportunities and educational experiences for visitors in the future.