
Bol Park
A serene 13.8-acre park in Palo Alto, famous for its friendly donkeys, native plant garden, and peaceful trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Bol Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 13.8-acre park in Palo Alto, famous for its friendly donkeys, native plant garden, and peaceful trails.
"The real draw is the Barron Park donkeys; they are wonderful and friendly!"

Donkey Mail!
Bring a letter for the donkeys! They have a special mailbox for 'donkey mail.'
Picnic Perfect
Plenty of open grass and shaded spots make it ideal for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Famous Barron Park Donkeys
Donkey Pasture
Meet the friendly resident donkeys! A unique and charming experience for all ages, complete with a special mailbox for donkey mail.

Native Plant Garden
North End of Park
Explore a serene garden showcasing local flora, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature.

Playground Fun
South End of Park
A well-maintained playground suitable for children of various ages, ensuring fun for the little ones.

Peaceful Walking Trails
Throughout the Park
Enjoy well-kept, clean trails winding through natural open space and surrounded by beautiful trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Donkey Charm
Park Perks & Practicalities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donkey Mail!
Bring a letter for the donkeys! They have a special mailbox for 'donkey mail.'
Picnic Perfect
Plenty of open grass and shaded spots make it ideal for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:
Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly
Wide, well-maintained paths are great for strollers and wheelchairs. :wheelchair:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donkey Mail!
Bring a letter for the donkeys! They have a special mailbox for 'donkey mail.'
Picnic Perfect
Plenty of open grass and shaded spots make it ideal for a relaxing picnic. :sandwich:
Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly
Wide, well-maintained paths are great for strollers and wheelchairs. :wheelchair:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners. :dog:
Capture the Charm
The donkeys and natural scenery offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bol Park is cherished for its unique donkey residents and peaceful, natural atmosphere. Visitors praise the well-maintained trails, accessible paths, and the charming playground, making it a favorite for families and those seeking a quiet escape. While generally well-loved, some may find parking limited during peak times.
"Our kids love visiting the donkeys and riding bikes on the path here. It feels more like a quiet nature space than a typical city park.
-Play Area: Playground for various ages.
-Amenities: Walking paths, picnic spots, donkey pasture.
-Shade & Scenery: Natural open space with shaded paths.
-Accessibility: Wide paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
-Parking: Street parking available.
-Good for: Families, nannies, caregivers, daycares"
Maria del Pilar Hernandez (Tikiland)
"Loved this trail. Very peaceful and well kept. Trail was clean and people were friendly (all while continuing to social distance) Beautiful trees as well."
Eliza
"There is a nice playground on one end of the park and lots of open space, but the real draw is the Barron Park donkeys."
AL Kim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bol Park is located in Palo Alto, California. Street parking is generally available near the park entrances. For those using public transport, Caltrain stops in Palo Alto, and you can then take a short bus ride or taxi to the park.
Yes, street parking is available around the park. It's recommended to arrive earlier on weekends to secure a spot, especially if you're visiting with family. :car:
Absolutely! Bol Park is easily accessible by bike, with paths that connect to local cycling routes. It's a popular spot for cyclists enjoying the scenery. :bicycle:
The park features wide, well-maintained paths that are suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, making it accessible for visitors with mobility needs. :wheelchair:
You can use GPS navigation systems with 'Bol Park, Palo Alto, CA' as your destination. Look for signs indicating the park entrance upon arrival. :round_pushpin:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bol Park is a public city park and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to visit and enjoy its amenities. :ticket:
Bol Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's a public space, so hours are typically aligned with daylight. :clock1:
There is no admission fee to see the donkeys at Bol Park. This unique attraction is freely accessible to all park visitors. :moneywithwings:
Bol Park does not offer reservations for picnic spots. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended for prime locations. :newspaper:
While not a primary venue for large ticketed events, local community groups may organize small gatherings. Check local Palo Alto park event listings for updates. :calendar:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can visit the famous Barron Park donkeys, enjoy the native plant garden, let kids play at the playground, and walk or bike on the peaceful trails. It's also a great spot for picnics.
Restroom facilities are available within the park, typically located near the playground area. :toilet:
Yes, Bol Park is excellent for families! It has a playground for various ages and the donkeys are a huge hit with kids. The open spaces are great for running around.
Dogs are welcome in Bol Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet. :dog:
Expect natural open space, shaded paths, beautiful trees, and a dedicated native plant garden. The park offers a serene, nature-focused environment. :evergreen_tree:
📸 📸 Photography
The donkey pasture is a must for unique shots. The native plant garden offers beautiful botanical backdrops, and the tree-lined trails provide lovely natural light. :camerawithflash:
Yes, the open spaces and tree canopy can create beautiful lighting during sunset. The peaceful atmosphere adds to the photographic appeal.
While casual photography is encouraged, professional photoshoots might require permits depending on the scale. It's best to check with the Palo Alto Parks Department for specific regulations. :camera:
The 'golden hours' shortly after sunrise and before sunset offer the most flattering light. Midday can be harsh, but the shade from trees helps. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage in city parks is often restricted or prohibited to ensure safety and tranquility for other visitors. It's advisable to check local ordinances. :noentrysign:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many picnic spots, and take advantage of the wide, accessible paths for strollers. It’s a safe, engaging, and peaceful environment where kids can explore and have fun.
🚶♀️ Nature & Peace Seekers
Visitors often describe the park as 'peaceful' and 'well-kept,' highlighting its ability to offer a respite from the urban hustle. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet stroll, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Bay Area.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone. It’s a great place for a relaxed outing with your canine companion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Beloved Barron Park Donkeys
Community Insight: Travelers often mention the donkeys as a highlight, describing them as 'wonderful and friendly.' It's a simple pleasure that makes Bol Park stand out from typical city parks. The presence of these animals transforms the park into a charming, almost rural, escape within the urban landscape.
Tip: If you plan to send 'donkey mail,' bring a small note or drawing to leave in their mailbox. It's a fun way to interact with this unique park feature.
Exploring Bol Park's Trails and Gardens
The trails are described as 'clean' and 'well-kept,' making them enjoyable for all visitors. The accessibility of these paths, being wide enough for strollers and wheelchairs, further enhances the park's appeal to a diverse range of visitors, including families and those with mobility challenges.
Key Features:
- Multi-use trails: Ideal for walking, running, and biking.
- Native Plant Garden: A tranquil area for nature lovers.
- Shaded paths: Offering comfort during warmer days.
- Accessibility: Wide paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Family Fun and Amenities at Bol Park
Beyond the playground, the park's amenities include picnic spots, making it an ideal location for a family outing or a casual lunch amidst nature. The presence of the donkeys adds an extra layer of excitement for younger visitors, turning a simple park visit into a memorable adventure.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Playground: Suitable for different age groups.
- Open Green Spaces: Perfect for active play.
- Donkey Encounters: A unique and engaging attraction for kids.
- Picnic Areas: Convenient for family meals.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit