Plaza Park

Recreational Facilities

Located in the heart of Visalia, California, Plaza Park is a large green space that offers a variety of recreational activities. Located at 700 S. Plaza St., the park provides a place where locals and visitors can exercise, relax, or simply enjoy the outdoors.

Sports enthusiasts will find themselves right at home here. The Valley Oaks Golf Course provides an ideal setting for golfers to work on perfecting that elusive swing. Tennis players can enjoy the park's eight lighted tennis courts - playing at sunset offers especially nice views.

The park has also embraced the pickleball craze, offering four dedicated courts for this increasingly popular sport. And if softball or horseshoes are more your speed, you'll find fields and courts ready for action across the park.

Plaza Park Raceway

Adrenaline junkies, take note! Plaza Park hosts the Plaza Park Raceway, a quiet retreat for motorsports fans in the Central Valley. The raceway brings the excitement of micro sprint racing with five different classes of competition that'll have you on the edge of your seat.

It's also relatively affordable. Tickets typically hover around $15, and you won't need to take out a loan for concessions. Pro tip: bring your own lawn chair or camping seat - the concrete bleachers aren't exactly known for their comfort during longer races.

Relaxation and Family Activities

Not in the mood for sports? The park offers plenty of chill options too. Scattered throughout are picnic areas complete with barbecue grills - excellent for everything from impromptu lunch dates to full-on family reunions. Many spots are blessed with ample shade, making for a comfortable retreat even during those hot Central Valley days.

Kids have plenty of room to burn off energy at the age-appropriate playgrounds. The area for little ones ages 2-5 is shaded, while the larger primary playground gets full sunshine throughout the day - nice during cooler months, but you might want to time your visits during summer. Each playground area features different structures designed to spark imagination and physical activity.

Fishing and Water Features

Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the well-stocked pond where bass, crappie, and catfish await. The park hosts youth fishing derby events twice yearly (January and June), creating perfect opportunities for young anglers to learn the ropes and maybe even catch their first fish.

The pond area doubles as a serene spot to observe local wildlife, with ducks and geese often gliding across the water. Recent renovations have given the water features a much-needed refresh, resulting in cleaner and more visually appealing surroundings.

Dog-Friendly Areas

Your four-legged friends haven't been forgotten! The Cody Kelly Dog Bark Park (or simply the Bark Park) offers a fenced, leash-free zone where dogs can socialize and play to their hearts' content. Located across from the main playground, it's a fantastic spot to let your pup run while still keeping an eye on the kids.

Park Layout

The diverse landscape includes open areas great for impromptu frisbee games or picnics, plus a bike path that winds through the grounds. Recent renovations have breathed new life into various facilities across the park.

A small creek meanders through the property, adding to its natural charm. Note that one bridge is currently out of service, but don't worry - there are plenty of alternative routes to access all areas of the park.

Beyond day-to-day recreation, Plaza Park is a community gathering space, hosting events from Renaissance faires to seasonal celebrations all year long.

With its mix of active and passive recreation options, Plaza Park is an important green space in Visalia. Its location just off Highway 99 also makes it convenient for travelers who need a break with kids or dogs.