Gilbert Garza Park

A Glimpse of San Antonio History

Tucked away at 1450 Mira Vista sits Gilbert Garza Park, a 21.5-acre green escape in the heart of San Antonio. Originally named after the adjacent street when established in 1972, the park later received its current name in honor of Mayor Pro Tem Gilbert Garza, who passed away that same year.

There's some real historical weight to this park's name. Garza was only the third Hispanic person ever elected as Mayor Pro Tem in San Antonio's history. A local native and the son of immigrants from Monterrey, Mexico, he made his mark through architecture and meaningful contributions to the city's development before the park came to bear his name.

What You'll Find Here

If you're looking to break a sweat or just need a peaceful spot to unwind, this park offers options for everyone. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the tennis courts (which also have pickleball boundaries!), a baseball field, and plenty of open space for impromptu soccer games.

For families with little ones, there are two separate playground areas with equipment that keeps kids entertained while parents can relax nearby. The grassy areas are meant for kite-flying adventures or simply spreading out a blanket for an afternoon of cloud-watching beneath the shade trees.

A walking trail circles the entire park, making it easy to get your steps in while enjoying the surroundings. It's particularly pleasant in the early morning or as the sun begins to set.

Community Hub

The park's community center hosts various activities and provides free WiFi. With free WiFi and a calendar full of activities, it is a genuine gathering place. The center runs basketball leagues and skills training that local kids particularly enjoy.

The center offers Zumba classes and various fitness programs where residents can meet and exercise together. If you're new to the area, stopping by the center is a great way to connect with what's happening locally.

Cool Off in the Pool

A major feature of Gilbert Garza Park is its public swimming pool with lifeguards keeping watch. The pool area actually features two options: a main pool reaching an impressive 13 feet deep (complete with diving board) and a more approachable shallow pool that maxes out at about 5½ feet.

The best part? It's completely free after signing in - a welcome relief during those scorching San Antonio summers. Just note that lifeguards take a 15-minute break hourly, and only water and fresh fruit are allowed poolside. Leave those snacks and sodas in your cooler until you're back at the picnic area.

Outdoor Gatherings

Scattered within the grounds are numerous picnic tables, many with their own BBQ grills and nearby trash cans for convenience. Planning a larger get-together? The sheltered pavilion provides welcome coverage from sun or unexpected showers.

Health-conscious visitors appreciate the outdoor fitness area with helpful pictographs showing different exercises and their difficulty levels. And for those who appreciate a bit of nostalgia, there are even hopscotch and four-square courts that might take you right back to elementary school recess.

Natural Surprises

Despite sitting in an urban setting, the park offers unexpected moments of natural beauty. Some lucky visitors have spotted a pair of caracaras (sometimes called "Mexican eagles") making their home in the area - a reminder that wildlife finds ways to thrive even in city spaces.

The mature trees provide essential shade during hot Texas days, and there's something calming about how the park maintains a relatively peaceful atmosphere despite its popularity with locals.

Good to Know

You'll discover plenty of parking here, and the park welcomes visitors daily from 5 AM to 11 PM. When nature calls, you've got options: indoor restroom facilities at the community center or portable toilets strategically placed throughout the grounds.

Dog owners, you're in luck - this is a pet-friendly spot where many regularly walk their four-legged companions along the trail. And for parents wondering about safety, the San Antonio Police Department Park Patrol does make regular rounds, helping maintain the family-friendly vibe that makes this park special.