William Land Park | Sacramento

William Land Park is one of Sacramento's largest and most beloved urban parks, offering a wide variety of attractions, facilities, and natural beauty. Located in the heart of the city, it provides locals and visitors with a blend of recreational opportunities, green space, and family-friendly destinations.

General Overview:

Size: 160 acres

Location: Situated in South Sacramento, it is bordered by Riverside Boulevard to the west, Land Park Drive to the north, 9th Avenue to the east, and 14th Avenue to the south.

Established: 1918, following a generous donation from William Land, a Sacramento hotelier and philanthropist.

Key Features:

1. Fairytale Town

Fairytale Town is a whimsical park designed specifically for young children. It features a variety of themed play structures inspired by nursery rhymes, fairy tales, and classic children's stories.

Popular Attractions:

Mother Goose’s house

Peter Pan’s pirate ship

The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe
Fairytale Town is an interactive experience, allowing children to play and explore while engaging their imaginations. It’s a perfect spot for families with toddlers and preschoolers.

2. Funderland

Funderland is a small, family-friendly amusement park within William Land Park. It offers a nostalgic carnival experience with classic rides suited for younger children. Some popular rides include:

A carousel

A mini Ferris wheel

A roller coaster
Funderland provides a safe and fun environment for families looking to enjoy classic amusement park attractions.

3. Sacramento Zoo

Located within the park, the Sacramento Zoo is home to more than 140 species of animals from around the world. Opened in 1927, the zoo is an educational and conservation-focused institution. Key features include:

Exhibits for species such as lions, tigers, giraffes, and orangutans.

Interactive exhibits like the Playground Safari and the Penguin Exhibit.

The Wildlife Theater for educational shows and events.

Conservation programs focused on endangered species.
The zoo is a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

4. William Land Golf Course

As the oldest golf course in Sacramento, William Land Golf Course has been serving golfers since 1924. It is a 9-hole, par-3 course, which makes it an accessible course for beginners or those looking for a quick game. The course is well-maintained, with scenic views of the park and surrounding areas.

Course amenities: Short game practice areas, target greens, and a practice tee area for wedge practice.

5. Ponds and Rock Garden

The park features several picturesque ponds, which are home to various species of waterfowl and other wildlife. These tranquil spots are popular for relaxing, walking, and birdwatching.

Rock Garden: A beautifully landscaped area with a serene atmosphere, offering winding paths, decorative rocks, and unique plantings.

The ponds and rock garden areas are ideal for peaceful strolls and outdoor reflection.

6. Jogging and Walking Path

William Land Park has a 3.4-mile paved jogging path, popular among runners, walkers, and cyclists. The path meanders through the park, offering scenic views of the different areas, including the ponds, gardens, and open fields.

7. Picnic Areas

There are over 22 picnic areas throughout the park, many of which have tables, barbecue grills, and large, shaded spaces. These areas are available for public use and can be reserved for family gatherings, birthday parties, and other events. The park also has open spaces that are great for casual picnics and outdoor recreation.

8. Sports Facilities

William Land Park is an active hub for various sports and recreational activities. Some of the facilities include:

Six softball fields

Three soccer fields

A basketball court

Tennis courts
These facilities are used by local leagues, schools, and recreational groups for team sports and competitions.

9. Amphitheater

The William A. Carroll Amphitheater is an outdoor venue located within the park that hosts various cultural events throughout the year. It’s well-known for its Sacramento Shakespeare Festival, which brings live theater to the community every summer. The amphitheater is also used for concerts, film screenings, and other performances.

Natural Beauty and Wildlife:

The park’s natural beauty adds to its appeal. With ample greenery, open meadows, and towering trees, it is an ideal setting for outdoor activities and relaxation. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and other small animals.

Birdwatching: The park is a popular location for birdwatchers, particularly in areas such as the "Panhandle" along Riverside Boulevard. Notable species include:

American Robin

Townsend's Warbler

Red-naped Sapsucker

Cedar Waxwing

The park’s pond areas attract waterfowl like ducks, geese, and herons, making it a peaceful location for nature lovers.

Accessibility and Visitor Information:

Parking: William Land Park offers plenty of free parking around the park’s various facilities. There are parking lots near the Sacramento Zoo, the golf course, and the sports fields.

Accessibility: The park is accessible for people with disabilities, offering paved paths, wheelchair-accessible picnic tables, and facilities.

Events and Programs:

William Land Park hosts various community events and programs throughout the year. Some of these include:

Sacramento Shakespeare Festival (at the amphitheater).

Farmers’ markets and seasonal events like Easter egg hunts and Fourth of July festivities.

Educational programs at the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town.

Local sports leagues often utilize the park for soccer, softball, and other events.

Conclusion:

William Land Park is one of Sacramento’s most iconic and well-loved spaces, offering a mix of recreational opportunities, historical landmarks, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re looking to spend a quiet afternoon in nature, take a family outing to the zoo or amusement park, or participate in sports, the park has something to offer everyone. Its combination of green space, cultural activities, and family attractions makes it a standout destination in the city.