Burgess Park
About
Burgess Park is a beloved Menlo Park community gem offering everything families need for a perfect outdoor day. With well-maintained playgrounds, spacious picnic areas, tennis courts, and plenty of open lawn for running and playing, this park provides a versatile setting for kids to burn energy while parents relax nearby.
Highlights
- ✓Well-equipped playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures
- ✓Wide open lawn areas perfect for soccer, tag, and picnics
- ✓Multiple picnic tables and benches with shade trees
- ✓Tennis courts for family-friendly matches
- ✓Safe, enclosed environment ideal for younger children
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (around 9 AM) to snag a picnic table with shade, as they fill up quickly during peak hours
- 2.Bring a blanket and soccer ball or frisbee to make the most of the expansive grassy areas perfect for family games
- 3.Pack snacks and water since there are no food vendors on-site, but plenty of shaded picnic spots to enjoy a packed lunch
- 4.The tennis courts are first-come, first-served, so bring rackets if your older kids want to play
- 5.Street parking on Laurel Street is usually available, with easy access to the playground area
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (8-10 AM) offer the quietest experience with pleasant temperatures and plenty of space. Weekends are busier but have a fun, community atmosphere. Spring and fall provide ideal weather, while summer mornings are perfect before temperatures rise.
What to Know
Admission is free with street parking available along Laurel Street and surrounding roads. No food is sold on-site, so pack a picnic or plan to grab lunch at nearby Menlo Park downtown restaurants just a few minutes away.
Seasonal Notes
The park is open year-round with consistent hours. Spring brings beautiful blooming trees and mild weather, while summer can get warm in the afternoons (visit mornings for comfort). Fall offers pleasant temperatures and gorgeous foliage. Winter is mild in the Bay Area, making year-round visits possible.
Nearby Eats
Head to downtown Menlo Park (5-minute drive) for family favorites like Cream for customizable ice cream sandwiches, or Willow Street Wood Fired Pizza for kid-friendly pizzas and a casual atmosphere perfect after park play.
More Activities Near Menlo Park
Nealon Park
Nealon Park is a beloved Menlo Park neighborhood gem that offers something for the whole family. With well-maintained playground equipment, sports facilities, and plenty of shaded picnic areas, it's the perfect spot for everything from a quick afternoon outing to a full day of family fun. The park's excellent 4.7-star rating reflects its clean facilities and welcoming atmosphere that keeps local families coming back.
Sharon Park
Sharon Park is a beloved Menlo Park neighborhood gem that offers something for every age, from toddlers to teens. With its well-maintained playgrounds, open sports fields perfect for impromptu soccer games, and shaded picnic areas under mature trees, it's an ideal spot for both planned outings and spontaneous afternoon play sessions.
Bedwell Bayfront Park
Bedwell Bayfront Park offers families a wonderful escape into nature with miles of flat, easy trails perfect for bikes and strollers, plus designated kite flying areas that kids absolutely love. The expansive bayfront setting provides opportunities to spot herons, egrets, and other wildlife while taking in panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, making it ideal for active families who want fresh air and space to roam.
Garden Sense, Inc.
Located at the historic Sunset Magazine headquarters, these demonstration gardens offer kids a hands-on nature experience with winding pathways, diverse plant collections, and changing seasonal displays. It's a peaceful outdoor classroom where children can explore different garden styles, spot pollinators, and learn about sustainable gardening practices in a stroller-friendly setting.