Rankin Park: Martinez's Family-Friendly Oasis
Discover Rankin Park in Martinez, CA: A vibrant hub for recreation, history, and community, offering swimming, picnics, playgrounds, and scenic beauty for all ages.
Rankin Park, nestled in Martinez, California, is a beloved destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Spanning 41 acres, this park offers a diverse range of activities and amenities, including a swimming and diving complex, reservable picnic areas, a gazebo perfect for small concerts or weddings, horseshoe pits, a lighted softball field, and a playground. The park's history is intertwined with James Rankin, a Scottish immigrant and former Contra Costa County Sheriff, who once owned the land and planted hundreds of olive trees, some of which still stand today. With its blend of recreational facilities, scenic beauty, and historical significance, Rankin Park provides a welcoming escape for visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit spot in the East Bay.
A brief summary to Rankin Park
- 100 Buckley St, Martinez, California, 94553, US
- +1925-372-3510
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and the best light for photography.
- Check the park's schedule for community events or activities that may be happening during your visit.
- Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks to enjoy a leisurely meal surrounded by nature.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Martinez (e.g., Main Street), Rankin Park is accessible by foot, though the final approach involves a slight uphill walk. Head west on Buckley Street. The park entrance is at the end of Buckley Street, approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the downtown area. Landmarks to look for include the Martinez City Hall and the Contra Costa County Library, which you'll pass on your way. Note that the park is set back on a hill, so the final stretch involves a moderate incline.
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Public Transport
Several County Connection bus lines serve the general Martinez area. From the Martinez Amtrak station or other points served by County Connection, take the appropriate bus line (e.g., 16, 19, 30Z) to a stop near downtown Martinez (check the County Connection website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules). From there, follow the walking directions above (head west on Buckley Street). A single ride on County Connection costs $2.00. Exact fare is required if paying with cash.
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Driving
If driving from elsewhere in Martinez or nearby areas, navigate to the west end of Buckley Street. From Highway 4, exit at Alhambra Avenue and head north. Turn left onto Buckley Street. Continue to the end of Buckley Street. There is ample free parking available within Rankin Park. Be aware that during peak times (e.g., weekends, special events), parking may be limited. There are no toll roads or bridges required to access the park.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Martinez, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) can provide a convenient way to reach Rankin Park. Simply provide the destination address (100 Buckley St, Martinez, CA 94553) to the driver. The typical cost for a short ride within Martinez is estimated to be $8 - $15, depending on distance and demand.
Discover more about Rankin Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Contra Costa County Historical Society
0.7 km
Discover the historical treasures of Contra Costa County at the Contra Costa County Historical Society, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Southern Pacific 1258 Historical Locomotive
0.7 km
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Bell Telephone Company Building
0.7 km
Explore the Bell Telephone Company Building, a historical landmark in Martinez, California, showcasing early 20th-century architecture and communication history.
Martinez Southern Pacific Rail Depot
0.7 km
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Martinez Historical Society Plaque: Hook Building circa 1927
0.8 km
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Trestle Park
3.3 km
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Strentzel-Muir Gravesite
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Walnut Creek Bridge
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Don Fernando Pacheco Adobe (California Historical Landmark No. 455)
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Don Salvio Pacheco Adobe
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The Paul Hamilton House
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Airmail Navigation Arrow
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Walnut Creek Station
14.0 km
Your gateway to downtown Walnut Creek and the entire Bay Area, offering easy access to shopping, dining, arts, and outdoor adventures.
Walnut Creek Farmers' Market (by CCCFM)
14.4 km
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Walnut Creek Convention & Visitors Bureau
14.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Nejedly Staging Area
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Historic Downtown Martinez
0.7 km
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Historic Downtown Martinez Welcome Sign
0.8 km
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Martinez Museum
0.9 km
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The Road to Eldorado Mural | Martinez Public Art
0.9 km
Discover a vibrant piece of California history at the Road to Eldorado Mural in Martinez, a New Deal-era masterpiece depicting the city's early settlers and pioneering spirit, nestled in the heart of downtown.
Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park
1.0 km
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Waterfront Park
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Golden Labyrinth | Martinez Public Art
1.2 km
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Old Glory Mural | Martinez Public Art
1.2 km
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Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline
1.6 km
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Martinez Adobe
2.8 km
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John Muir National Historic Site
2.9 km
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The Cobra Experience - Museum & Event Space
3.1 km
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Alhambra Way Mural | Martinez Public Art
3.1 km
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John Muir Mural | Martinez Public Art
3.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Lemongrass Bistro
0.5 km
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Pacifica Pizza
0.5 km
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Florence Italian Restaurant Inc
0.5 km
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Luigi's Deli & Market
0.5 km
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La Tapatia Mexican Cuisine & Catering
0.6 km
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Slow Hand BBQ - Martinez
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611 Bar & Grill
0.6 km
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Banh Mi & Rolls Factory
0.6 km
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Souley Vegan
0.6 km
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Shuck It! Oyster Bar & Seafood
0.6 km
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Roxx On Main
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Del Cielo Brewing Co.
0.7 km
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Rob's Zombies
0.7 km
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Sunflower Garden
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Brix & Craft, Craft Cocktails Wine & Artisan Pizza
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Collectors Cult Records
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Florence Linear
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Retro now
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bored.
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Busywork Craft Supply
0.6 km
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Market & Main
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Attic Child Furniture
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Out The Dough
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The Spotted Cow - Vintage, Antiques & Collectibles
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Leather + Moss Mercantile
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LC Galleries
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SB Trading Co.
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Faded Gold Vintage
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Lights of Diablo
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The Roaming Sole
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bentley's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
0.6 km
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Five Suns Brewing
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Bentley’s Container Bar
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Whiskey Lane
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Nu-Rays Bar
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Cue & Brew
3.8 km
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Masses
12.5 km
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Hops & Scotch
12.5 km
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C-blue Wet Bar & Bistro
12.6 km
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Spoontonic Lounge
12.8 km
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Artie's Countrywood Lounge
13.2 km
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Club 1220
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Retro Junkie
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Luna Sea Lounge
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Residual Sugar Wine Bar
14.5 km
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