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Mitchell Park: A Palo Alto Landmark

Explore Mitchell Park in Palo Alto: where innovative design meets community fun, offering inclusive playgrounds, sports, and vibrant events for all ages.

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Mitchell Park in Palo Alto is a vibrant community hub, offering diverse recreational activities and green spaces. Designed by Robert Royston in 1957, the park has evolved to meet the needs of all ages and abilities, featuring the innovative Magical Bridge Playground and various sports facilities.

A brief summary to Mitchell Park

  • Monday 8:30 am-10:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am-10:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am-10:30 pm
  • Thursday 8:30 am-10:30 pm
  • Friday 8:30 am-10:30 pm
  • Saturday 8:30 am-10:30 pm
  • Sunday 8:30 am-10:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Magical Bridge Playground, an innovative and inclusive space designed for children of all abilities.
  • Enjoy a picnic on the lawn, taking advantage of the park's beautiful landscaping and designated picnic areas.
  • Check the City of Palo Alto's website for upcoming events at the Mitchell Park Community Center and Library.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available throughout Mitchell Park, including near the library and community center.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Palo Alto Transit Center, take the VTA Route 22 bus towards Eastridge. Get off at the Middlefield & Meadow stop, which is a short 5-minute walk to Mitchell Park. The bus fare is $2.50. Alternatively, use Palo Alto Link, the city's rideshare service, for a direct connection to the park. Standard fares are $4, with discounted fares of $2 for eligible riders.

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Middlefield Road and Meadow Drive, head east on Meadow Drive. Mitchell Park will be on your left, with entrances accessible from Meadow Drive. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. There are no tolls or special access fees for walking into the park.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the East Meadow Drive exit and head west. Continue on East Meadow Drive until you reach Mitchell Park on your right. Free parking is available in the park's lots. Parking is also available at the Mitchell Park Library. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak hours and special events.

Unlock the Best of Mitchell Park

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Discover more about Mitchell Park

Mitchell Park, located in the Fairmeadow neighborhood of Palo Alto, California, stands as a testament to innovative park design and community engagement. Opened in 1957, the 22-acre park was designed by Robert Royston and quickly gained national and international acclaim for its unique approach to recreational spaces. Royston's design incorporated elements of modern art, creating functional and aesthetically pleasing forms that catered to diverse user groups, especially children. Named after J. Pearce Mitchell, a long-time Palo Alto City Councilmember and Stanford University professor, the park has a rich history of serving the community. Over the years, Mitchell Park has adapted to the changing needs of Palo Alto residents. A significant upgrade in the 1990s improved the park's infrastructure and amenities, ensuring its continued relevance. Today, Mitchell Park boasts a wide array of attractions, including tennis and pickleball courts, and the Magical Bridge Playground, which opened in 2015. This inclusive playground is designed for visitors of all abilities, making it a welcoming space for everyone. The Mitchell Park Library and Community Center further enhance the park's appeal, offering various programs and events throughout the year. The park also hosts community events such as the Twilight Concert Series. With its blend of history, innovative design, and diverse activities, Mitchell Park remains a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

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