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Burgess Park: Menlo Park's Community Hub

Discover Menlo Park's vibrant heart at Burgess Park: a hub for recreation, community events, and family fun, easily accessible near downtown and Caltrain.

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Burgess Park, a vibrant 9-acre park in the heart of Menlo Park, California, serves as a central gathering place for the community. Originally part of the Dibble Hospital Facilities and acquired by the city in 1948, it's one of Menlo Park's first recreation areas. Adjacent to the Civic Center, the park boasts diverse facilities, including sports fields, tennis courts, a skate park, swimming pools, and picnic areas. With its accessible design and proximity to the Caltrain station and downtown, Burgess Park offers a welcoming space for recreation, relaxation, and community events. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the pond, engage in a friendly game of basketball, or attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year, Burgess Park provides a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The park's rich history and commitment to inclusivity make it a treasured landmark in Menlo Park.

A brief summary to Burgess Park

  • Monday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the City of Menlo Park's website for upcoming events at Burgess Park, including festivals, concerts, and community gatherings.
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the park's many picnic tables or on the grassy areas.
  • Bring your sports equipment to take advantage of the park's baseball/softball diamond, basketball court, soccer field, and tennis courts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Menlo Park Caltrain station, head west on Ravenswood Avenue towards El Camino Real. Turn left onto El Camino Real and walk south for one block. Turn right onto Laurel Street. Burgess Park will be on your left, adjacent to the Menlo Park City Hall and Library. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Note that the Menlo Park Library is located at 800 Alma St, Menlo Park, CA 94025.

  • Public Transport

    Several SamTrans bus routes serve the area around Burgess Park. Check the SamTrans website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. The M1-Crosstown Shuttle is a free community service route open to everyone. It runs between Belle Haven and Sharon Heights via downtown Menlo Park. The M2-Belle Haven is a service connecting the Belle Haven neighborhood with the Menlo Park Library, Burgess Park, downtown, Safeway and the Little House Activity Center. The M3-Marsh Road and M4-Willow Road shuttles run from Menlo Park Caltrain. All Menlo Park shuttles are FREE and open to everyone. All shuttle vehicles are wheelchair-accessible and have a rack that can accommodate two bicycles.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Menlo Park. A short ride from the Menlo Park Caltrain station to Burgess Park will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on demand and surge pricing.

  • Driving

    From US-101, take the Willow Road exit west. Continue on Willow Road to Middlefield Road and turn right. Turn left onto Ravenswood Avenue, then turn right onto Laurel Street. Burgess Park will be on your left. Limited parking is available in the lots adjacent to the park and surrounding streets. Parking is free, but can be competitive during peak hours and events. Additional parking may be found at 650 Middle Avenue, Menlo Park.

Unlock the Best of Burgess Park

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Discover more about Burgess Park

Burgess Park, located at 701 Laurel Street in Menlo Park, California, is more than just a park; it's a vibrant community hub that has served as a focal point for residents since its establishment in 1948. Originally part of the Dibble Hospital Facilities, the 9.31-acre park was acquired by the city and has since evolved into a diverse recreational area that caters to a wide range of interests and activities. Adjacent to the Civic Center complex, Burgess Park offers convenient access to a variety of facilities, making it a popular destination for Menlo Park residents and visitors alike. The park's central location, within walking distance of the Caltrain station and the downtown business district, further enhances its accessibility and appeal. One of the park's defining features is its commitment to providing diverse recreational opportunities. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the baseball/softball diamond, basketball court, soccer field, and tennis courts. The Arrillaga Family Gymnasium, located within the park, offers additional indoor sports facilities. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, Burgess Park boasts picnic areas, a playground, and a serene pond. Paved walking paths wind through the park, providing a scenic route for strolls and exercise. Burgess Park is also a popular venue for community events throughout the year. From the annual 4th of July celebration and parade to spring festivals and other seasonal gatherings, the park serves as a gathering place for residents to come together and celebrate. The Menlo Park Fire Department often partners with events, offering families the chance to ride around town in a vintage fire truck. The park's history is intertwined with the development of Menlo Park itself. In the late 1940s, then-Mayor Burgess spearheaded a plan to transform Santa Cruz Avenue into a retail hub with off-street parking, contributing to the park's growth and accessibility. The park's name is a tribute to the Burgess family's contributions to the city. Burgess Park is committed to inclusivity and accessibility. The park is ADA accessible, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can fully enjoy its facilities. Recent events have also incorporated sensory-friendly activities to cater to children with neurodivergence or sensory sensitivities. The park's amenities include: * Publicly owned and accessible facilities * ADA accessibility * Baseball/softball diamond * Basketball court * Barbecue grills * Benches * Drinking fountain * Expansive grass area * Gymnasium * Hydration station * Open play field * Lighted walkways * Parking * Picnic areas and tables * Playground * Pond * Restrooms * Shade areas * Skate Park * Soccer field * Swimming pool * Tennis court * Paved walking paths Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Menlo Park, Burgess Park offers a welcoming and engaging experience. From its diverse recreational facilities to its vibrant community events, the park provides a space for people of all ages and interests to connect, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. Visiting Burgess Park is a chance to immerse yourself in the heart of Menlo Park's community spirit. Take a stroll along the paved paths, enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of the trees, or simply relax by the pond and watch the ducks glide across the water. With its rich history, diverse amenities, and commitment to inclusivity, Burgess Park is a true gem in the heart of Menlo Park.

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