Fremont Park

A Glimpse of Santa Rosa History

Tucked away at the corner of Hope Street near Santa Rosa Middle School, Fremont Park is a cozy 1.71-acre green space with roots stretching back to 1929. Before becoming the serene spot it is today, this land was home to Fremont Grammar School until 1924 - talk about a schoolyard transformation!

Thoughtful Design with Community at Heart

What makes this park special isn't just its location but the mind behind it. Howard Gilkey, a Berkeley landscape architect who once worked for the legendary Luther Burbank as a teenager, designed this little urban oasis.

We love how Gilkey approached this project - he divided the park into 11 distinct areas that local civic groups could "adopt." This approach got the community involved from day one, fostering a connection that continues today.

What You'll Find Here

Fremont Park provides a peaceful retreat from downtown Santa Rosa. The open grassy areas are meant for spreading out with a good book or simply sitting cross-legged for a moment of calm. Paved pathways wind through the space, inviting you to take a leisurely stroll.

Installed in 2000, the Cancer Survivors Plaza, installed in 2000, is one of the park's most meaningful features, with commemorative statues that draw quiet reflection. There's also a solemn Veterans Memorial that pays tribute to those who served.

You'll find benches scattered throughout where you can sit and watch the world go by. On hot California days, the shaded areas offer welcome relief from the sun.

Making the Most of Your Visit

This isn't a park for rowdy games or big gatherings - it's more of a sanctuary for quiet moments. Bring a book, your thoughts, or a small picnic blanket and embrace the calm. Four-legged friends are welcome, but the compact space is better suited for leashed walks than wild play sessions.

Occasionally, the park transforms for community celebrations, including Pride events that fill the space with music and festivities.

Note that while there is a fountain, it's not always running. You should also plan accordingly as there are no public restrooms or picnic tables on the grounds.

Looking to the Future

Fremont Park is currently in a period of reimagination. The City of Santa Rosa is working with locals on a master planning process to breathe new life into this historic space.

The goal? To honor the park's heritage while ensuring it meets the evolving needs of today's neighborhood.