Thousand Oaks tot lot ranks high on my list for watching one upright walking child and low on my list for watching two or more kiddos. Thanks to its toddler temptations, it is best for the under-three set.
For parents looking to relax on a bench, the park offers a play structure, four bucket swings, and occasionally plastic vehicles and playsets that are left behind to occupy toddlers. For parents who want to run around, there is a grassy area for playing catch or picnicking. And for the nature lovers, there is a small creek to explore.
Proximity to Solano Avenue makes it easy to grab coffee at Peet’s, pick up sandwiches at Andronico’s Market for a park picnic, and stop by iScream for a treat. There’s no bathroom at Thousand Oaks, so visitors will need to use facilities at nearby Solano shops.
The creek that runs along the edge of the park is a Pandora’s Box, so know that once you have shown it to a toddler, you will be forced to go down to the water every time you visit Thousand Oaks.
Thousand Oaks Tot Park profile
Location: 1700-1780 Tacoma Ave., Berkeley
Fenced in? Partially, there are openings in the fence near the grassy area.
Swings: Four bucket swings.
Surfaces: Cushy rubber mat surface and wood chips around the play structure.
Bathroom: No, the closest restrooms are on Solano Ave.
Unique Features of the Park Overall: The park is small, but pairing it with a visit to the creek and the elementary school playground can make for a full day of fun.
Lunch tables & seating: Benches near the play structure and picnic tables in the grassy area.
Parking: Free street parking right next to the park.
Shade: Large trees provide good shade.
Pros: Usually not crowded.
Cons: No on-site restrooms and not fully gated.
Thousand Oaks Elementary School playground
Located just around the corner, Thousand Oaks Elementary School playground, is another fun play area to explore on weekends or when school is not in session.
It offers a wide, flat space perfect for practicing scooter or bicycle skills. Similar to the appeal of the nearby creek, we’ve found that once kids discover the exciting ramps and larger play structure at the elementary school, the charm of the always-open tot lot fades quickly, and keeping an energetic 4-year-old there can be nearly impossible!
Struggling with a newborn-toddler combo? We recommend Totland instead.
