We are so happy to see Jean Sweeney Open Space Park in Alameda back in action. It was a stormy weekend for an outdoor park trip, but Alameda residents were not thwarted by the weather. The park was teeming with families admiring the awesome new play space.
Visiting Sweeney Park in Alameda
Parking is super easy and free, directly in front of the playground. There are bike racks as well, and the bike path runs right next to the playground.
The 22-acre park opened late 2018 after a long build project. The Jean Sweeney Fund raised 6.5 million dollars for the park project. Walking paths and landscaping indicate thoughtful planning, and there are lots of big open spaces with benches and picnic tables.
The playground is super cool! It’s versatile with various sections appropriate for a range of age groups.
Three-cheers for fenced-in toddlers!
For 2 to 5-year olds, there is a fully fenced-in play structure and a swing set (with bucket seat swings). The contraption that unlocks the gates is baffling to the kids (and some of the parents) so once they’re in, they’re not getting out without adult help. I have one child who is a runner, so I appreciate a good toddler corral!
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Best features of Sweeney Park playground
- Four tiers of rope climbing
- Super-sized interactive chime instrument
- Extra-wide slide with an AstroTurf-protected landing at the base
- Zipline with seat for riders
- Water play sandpit area (bring a change of clothes!)
- Favorite scootering path
Find more East Bay playgrounds with ziplines >>
There are all kinds of surfaces at the park with wood chips, sand, turf, competing with natural paths and sidewalks. Big kids who like climbing will be thrilled by various pegs, ropes, and swings, and nearby boulders and wood logs (however, the safety of that area for toddlers is questionable). If, like mine, your three-year-old likes to live dangerously, then enjoy!
Facilities at Sweeney Park
The cycling pathway is smooth and nice — and our favorite place to scooter — and the trail has hand sanitizing stations all along the way.
The bathrooms are directly beside the toddler area and though they didn’t have toilet paper the day we went (BYO!), they do have a changing table. Score! There are clearly marked garbage and recycling bins. Because it’s relatively new, everything is still pretty clean.
The trees will be beautiful someday, but right now they’re too small to provide any shade. Bring sun hats!
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A few notes about Covid-19 changes
Due to Covid-19: the tables are closed off for now. In other times, for eating meals and snacks, a large slab with sheltered picnic tables and big bbq pits sit adjacent to a large green field. For outdoor birthday parties and family outings, it’s welcoming and user-friendly.
Masks are mandatory and there are hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the park. Website for more info >>
Sweeney Park is located st 1925 Sherman St, Alameda, CA.
