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!

Alden Lane Nursery, Livermore

Why It’s Great: You may not expect to enjoy yourself at a nursery with kids, but Alden Lane is a varietal all its own. The nursery is set beneath enormous oak trees and accented with hidden statues and figures. Wander through the gardens and enjoy the tiny tree houses and birdhouses that make this gardening center feel more like a fairy world. (If you go on the right days, you may get to sample fruit and wine!)

Where: 981 Alden Ln.
Livermore, Ca
Online: aldenlane.com

Good to Know: There are several classes available for aspiring and veteran gardeners. Also check out their website for upcoming contests and events.

Photo by Jason L. via Yelp

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

—Aly Brown