Jones Park

Riverside Retreat

Tucked away in Renton, Washington, Jones Park might be small at just 1.2 acres, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. This little green space sits along the Cedar River, with the Cedar River Trail running right alongside it - convenient for enjoying nature without venturing far from town.

Only a couple blocks from downtown Renton and the public library, you could easily combine a park visit with other local adventures. No dedicated parking lot here, but don't worry - there's plenty of street parking, especially before 6 PM on weekdays and all day Sundays when the spots aren't claimed by the 9-to-5 crowd.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The playground here isn't your standard swings-and-slides setup. It features a riverine theme that children seem to enjoy. Toddlers can play with playground characters including a serpent figure that looks like it's emerging from the ground.

With soft landing surfaces (your knees will thank you) and plenty of climbing opportunities, it's particularly great for the toddler through elementary school crowd. A nice bonus: it rarely gets packed, making it easier to keep track of your little adventurers as they explore.

Nature's Soundtrack

A notable feature of Jones Park is the Cedar River flowing alongside it. The sound of running water creates a peaceful backdrop that helps you disconnect from the suburban setting. The park connects directly to the Cedar River Trail, so you can easily extend your visit into a longer walk, jog, or bike ride if you're feeling energetic.

There's a dedicated river access point that's easy to reach, but you should know there are steps down to the water with no barrier between the river and walkway. Keep a close eye on the kids here. In summer, the river becomes a natural splash pad - a refreshing spot to cool your feet or skip some stones.

Rest & Relaxation

One of our favorite features is the large wooden pergola draped with one of Renton's largest wisteria vines. When in bloom, it creates a natural canopy that provides good shade on sunny days.

Several picnic tables and benches are scattered around - good spots for having lunch with a river view. The picnic area works well for small gatherings, however keep in mind this isn't a massive park - it can feel quite cozy (or crowded, depending on your perspective) with more than 50 people.

There are public restrooms available, which are generally clean and well-kept when open. Do check the signage, as they sometimes close during winter months.

The Overall Experience

Jones Park offers a well-maintained piece of tranquility within Renton's urban setting. Its modest size makes it meant for quick visits - maybe a morning coffee break, a family picnic, or a peaceful spot to catch your breath while exploring the Cedar River Trail.

Four-legged friends are welcome as long as they're leashed, and there are waste bags available for responsible pet parents. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful river views make this a local favorite for morning strolls or finding a quiet moment to decompress.

One tip: plan your visit during daylight hours. Once the sun sets, the park gets pretty dark and can be tricky to navigate without bumping into things.