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Civic Park: Walnut Creek's Community Heart

Experience the heart of Walnut Creek at Civic Park: recreation, events, and natural beauty for everyone.

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Civic Park in Walnut Creek is a vibrant 16.7-acre green space that serves as a central gathering place for the community. With a rich history dating back to the 1970s, the park offers recreational activities, cultural events, and peaceful spots amidst natural beauty.

A brief summary to Civic Park

Local tips

  • Check the Walnut Creek Arts + Rec website for upcoming events and activities in the park.
  • Visit the habitat gardens to see native plants and butterflies; look for the interpretive signs to learn more.
  • Enjoy a picnic on the lawn, but be aware that picnic areas are non-reservable.
  • Parking is available, but the lot can fill up quickly on weekends; consider alternative parking in nearby garages.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Walnut Creek, Civic Park is easily accessible on foot. Head east on Civic Drive from North Main Street; the park will be on your right. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on your starting point in downtown.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area around Civic Park. The nearest bus stop is N Main St and Civic Dr, which is a short walk to the park. BART also provides service to Walnut Creek; from the Walnut Creek BART station, you can take a short bus ride or walk to the park. A short ride on the bus will cost around $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Walnut Creek. A short taxi ride from downtown to Civic Park will typically cost between $10 and $15. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.

  • Parking

    If driving, enter the park parking lot via Civic Drive. Parking is free, but the lot is small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Alternative parking is available in nearby city garages such as the Broadway Parking Garage, South Locust Street Parking Garage, and the Lesher Center Garage. These garages charge hourly rates, typically around $1.25 per hour, with the first hour free. The Civic Plaza Garage is another option, with hourly rates and a daily maximum of $15. Metered street parking is also available, with rates of $1-$2 per hour and time limits.

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Discover more about Civic Park

Civic Park, located in the heart of Walnut Creek, California, is a beloved community hub and a vibrant green space embodying local leisure and communal engagement. Spanning 16.7 acres, Civic Park is a central gathering place where residents and visitors enjoy recreational activities, cultural events, and serene moments. The park's development began in the 1970s to create accessible public spaces. Over the years, Civic Park has become a cornerstone of Walnut Creek's urban landscape, blending natural beauty and recreational facilities. The park features expansive grassy areas perfect for picnics and relaxation under mature trees. Sports facilities include basketball and tennis courts, while a well-designed playground caters to younger visitors. Civic Park also features habitat gardens, originally designed in 1996 and enhanced in 1999, which host over 25 species of butterflies and 130 species of native California plants. Visitors can explore the gardens via walking paths and interpretive signs. The Creek Walk, following Walnut Creek, also runs through the habitat gardens. The park hosts various events, including the Art & Wine Festival, Movies Under the Stars, and the Walnut Creek Oktoberfest. A seasonal ice rink is also a popular winter attraction. As a testament to Walnut Creek's commitment to quality public spaces, Civic Park remains a vital part of the city's landscape, offering connection, leisure, and enjoyment in the heart of the community.

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