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Land Park neighborhood in Sacramento, CA
Photo: Jiun Liu
View of Land Park in Sacramento, CA
Photo: Dmitriy Zhuravlev
View of Land Park in Sacramento, CA
Photo: Dmitriy Zhuravlev

Land Park

FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours for just the park areas, or a full day if combining with zoo and Funderland visits👶 Perfect for all ages, from infants to teens. Toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-5) adore Funderland's gentle rides and playground areas, elementary-aged kids (5-12) enjoy the zoo and wide open spaces for games and exploring, while teens appreciate the botanical gardens and scenic walking paths.

About

Land Park is Sacramento's beloved 166-acre urban oasis that offers families an entire day's worth of activities in one convenient location. With the Sacramento Zoo, Funderland amusement park, expansive playgrounds, serene Fairy Tale Town, and acres of shaded picnic areas, it's a one-stop destination for family fun. The park's mature trees and beautiful gardens provide a peaceful setting while keeping kids entertained with multiple attractions within walking distance.

Highlights

  • Funderland amusement park with classic kiddie rides and carnival atmosphere
  • Sacramento Zoo featuring over 500 animals from around the world
  • Multiple playgrounds with modern equipment and plenty of shade
  • Beautiful Fairy Tale Town (adjacent attraction) for younger children
  • Wide open grassy areas perfect for picnics, frisbee, and running around

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early on weekends to snag shaded picnic tables near the playground - they fill up fast by late morning, especially in summer
  2. 2.Park for free along the residential streets on the eastern side of the park (near Sutterville Road) to avoid zoo parking fees if you're just using the park areas
  3. 3.Bring bikes, scooters, or rollerblades - the paved paths throughout the park are perfect for young riders and connect all the main attractions
  4. 4.Pack a cooler and make it a full day - there are water fountains and restrooms throughout, but limited food options beyond the zoo and Funderland
  5. 5.Check out the William Land Golf Course playground on the south side - it's often less crowded than the main playground near Funderland

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (9am-12pm) are ideal for avoiding crowds, especially in spring and fall when weather is perfect. Weekends get busy but offer a lively atmosphere. Visit in spring (March-May) for blooming gardens and mild temperatures, or early fall for comfortable weather without summer heat.

What to Know

The park itself is free to access with ample street parking and several parking lots. Separate admission fees apply for the Sacramento Zoo and Funderland. Multiple playgrounds, clean restrooms, and accessible paved paths throughout make it stroller and wheelchair friendly.

Seasonal Notes

The park is open year-round and beautiful in all seasons. Spring features blooming flowers throughout the botanical gardens. Summer can be hot (bring sunscreen and water), but mature trees provide ample shade. Fall offers perfect weather and changing foliage. Winter is mild in Sacramento with occasional rain - check weather before planning picnics.

Nearby Eats

Gunther's Ice Cream (a Sacramento institution since 1940) is just a short drive away on Franklin Boulevard - perfect for a post-park treat. For casual family dining, head to nearby Curtis Park Village where you'll find pizza, sandwiches, and coffee shops within a mile of the park.

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