Uncovering Magical Places: Hidden East Bay Parks and Gardens

From Fairlyland's uncrowded little sister (where you can fish for crawdads with a paperclip and string) to a super slide that will make them scream with delight—these parks are hidden but beg to be found!

By Aly Brown November 6, 2014

The East Bay is absolutely bursting with parks where kids can build, play and ride. But if your mini is already considered the mayor of Adventure Playground or the Fairyland attendant knows your whole brood by name, it’s time to explore some of the areas hidden gems. From Fairlyland’s uncrowded little sister (where you can fish for crawdads with a paperclip and string) to a super-sized play structure that lets the littles pretend to be Spiderman and Jack Sparrow, all in one day. Click through to check out the parks that you’ve been missing!

Veteran’s Park, Brentwood

Why It’s Great: This park was formerly known for it's massive "spider-web" climbing rope structure, but recently a giant pirate ship was added to a park as part of the Disabilities Act, so today kids of all abilities can explore. The two play areas create a good balance: one area for pure climbing and another area for kids to play make-believe and find gadgets to push. The park is also on the same lot as the public pools, bocce ball courts, and skate park. so make a day of it!

Where: 3841 Balfour Rd.
Brentwood, Ca

Good to Know: There is a huge nearby picnic area for barbecuing. Bathroom access is also available.

What is your favorite off-the-radar East Bay park?

—Aly Brown