Corner of Virginia and Pico
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Virginia Avenue Park

4.5
·914 reviews·Santa Monica, United States

A vibrant 9.5-acre community park featuring playgrounds, a splash pad, basketball courts, and a popular Saturday farmers market.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Farmers market buzz

CrowdHigh
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Corner of Virginia and Pico

Virginia Avenue Park

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Farmers market buzz

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant 9.5-acre community park featuring playgrounds, a splash pad, basketball courts, and a popular Saturday farmers market.

4.5
(914 reviews)

"Great park to hang out on a Saturday as they have the farmers market."

Vertical photo
TIP

📞 Splash Pad Hotline

Call (310) 458-8974 to check splash pad status before you go. :water_wave:

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Arrive early on Saturdays for easier street parking; park amenities also offer spots. :parking:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Splash Pad Fun

Splash Pad Fun

Seasonal splash pad area

Beat the heat with this popular water play area, perfect for kids to cool off and have a blast.

TikTok
Saturday Farmers Market

Saturday Farmers Market

Park grounds

A vibrant market offering fresh produce and local goods, creating a lively weekend atmosphere.

Reddit
Playground Adventures

Playground Adventures

Playground area

One of the best playgrounds for kids, offering ample space and fun for children of all ages.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Splash Pad Status Check

The splash pad at Virginia Avenue Park is a major draw for families, but it can be out of order. Before heading over, it's wise to call the landscaping office at (310) 458-8974 to confirm it's operational. Reddit

Saturday Market & Parking

Saturdays are lively with the farmers' market, but this also means more crowds. Arrive early for the best selection and easier street parking. The park itself offers ample parking, including EV charging stations. Reddit

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Farmers market buzz
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less crowded play
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Safety in neighborhood near Clover Park / Virginia Avenue Park for a young family

📞 Splash Pad Hotline

Call (310) 458-8974 to check splash pad status before you go. Reddit :water_wave:

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Arrive early on Saturdays for easier street parking; park amenities also offer spots. Reddit :parking:

reddit.com

Virginia Park Splash Pad

reddit.com

Looking to Rent a Parking Spot Near Virginia Ave Park (Santa Monica)

📚 Library Combo

Combine park fun with a visit to the Pico Branch Library next door. Reddit :books:

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of shady spots and picnic tables make it ideal for a relaxed meal. Reddit :picnic_table:

Tips

from all over the internet

📞 Splash Pad Hotline

Call (310) 458-8974 to check splash pad status before you go. Reddit :water_wave:

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Arrive early on Saturdays for easier street parking; park amenities also offer spots. Reddit :parking:

📚 Library Combo

Combine park fun with a visit to the Pico Branch Library next door. Reddit :books:

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of shady spots and picnic tables make it ideal for a relaxed meal. Reddit :picnic_table:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(914 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Virginia Avenue Park is a beloved community space, praised for its family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and a splash pad, alongside a vibrant Saturday farmers market. Visitors appreciate the clean facilities, ample shade, and convenient location with nearby dining. Occasional issues with the splash pad's operational status are a minor drawback.

"Community-driven park with a solid Saturday farmers’ market. The Pico Branch Library next door is a bonus stop. Street parking is manageable if you time it right. Shady seating makes it a comfortable place to hang. Lots of families and a friendly vibe. Great for errands + park combo."

Ernesto Marzinni

"Virginia Avenue Park is in my neighborhood. I love taking my dogs for a walk through the park. Lots of grass and trees, with picnic tables and one of the best playgrounds for kids. The Pico Library is in the park and opens at noon during weekdays. There are lots of places for picnics and birthday party celebrations surrounded by trees and plenty of grass. There are clean restrooms and water fountains. There is a lot of shade in the summer and kids will love the splash fountains to cool off and play. There are basketball courts and every weekend there is a farmer's market on Saturday. The park has plenty of walkabout restaurants nearby and coffee shops. There is parking provided by the park. It is one of my favorite things about this neighborhood."

Akiko Ashley

"Great park to hang out on a Saturday as they have the farmers market. It’s not that big but you get a good selection. The park is well
maintained and lively. Lots of easy parking around!"

Elle

What People Like

Great playgrounds
Lively farmers market
Clean facilities

What People Dislike

Splash pad downtime

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Virginia Avenue Park is easily accessible by car and is located near public transportation routes. Street parking is often available, and the park itself has dedicated parking lots, including some with EV charging stations. Reddit+1

Yes, there are ample parking spaces available both within the park and on the surrounding streets. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on Saturdays, for the best parking options. Reddit+1

While specific bus routes aren't detailed in user comments, the park's location suggests it's likely served by local bus lines. Checking local transit schedules for routes near Pico Boulevard would be advisable. Reddit

On Saturdays, the farmers market draws crowds, so arriving earlier in the morning is best for both market shopping and securing convenient parking. Reddit

Yes, the park is described as having plenty of grass and trees, making it pleasant for walking and jogging. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Virginia Avenue Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Access to the park grounds, playgrounds, and basketball courts is free for all visitors. Reddit

Park hours are generally from dawn to dusk, though specific facility hours like the community center or library may vary. The farmers market typically runs on Saturday mornings. Reddit

No, the farmers market at Virginia Avenue Park is open to the public and does not require tickets for entry or browsing. Reddit

The splash pad is seasonal and can sometimes be out of order. It's recommended to call the landscaping office at (310) 458-8974 to confirm its operational status before visiting. Reddit

Generally, parks have standard rules regarding hours, noise levels, and pet policies. Specific restrictions are not detailed in reviews, but it's a community-focused space. Reddit

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

The park offers a community center, a seasonal splash pad, two playgrounds, basketball courts, picnic areas, and ample green space for relaxing or playing. Reddit

Yes, there are two playgrounds, and one is specifically highlighted as being excellent for kids, suggesting it caters to various age groups. Reddit

Absolutely! The park features numerous picnic tables and plenty of grassy areas, making it a popular spot for picnics and birthday celebrations. Reddit

Yes, the park is noted for having clean restrooms, which is a convenient amenity for visitors. Reddit

One reviewer mentioned taking their dogs for a walk through the park, indicating that dogs are likely welcome, though leash rules should be observed. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the park itself doesn't have dedicated food vendors, the Saturday farmers market offers a variety of food stalls. Additionally, there are many walkabout restaurants and coffee shops nearby. Reddit+1

The farmers market provides a good selection of fresh produce and likely includes prepared foods, baked goods, and other artisanal items. Reddit

Yes, the park has plenty of picnic tables and grassy areas, making it an ideal location to bring your own food and enjoy a picnic. Reddit

Yes, reviews mention nearby coffee shops, making it easy to grab a beverage before or after enjoying the park. Reddit

With picnic tables and nearby dining options, it's a great spot for a casual birthday party meal, especially if you plan to bring your own food or order takeout. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers a variety of scenic spots, including the playgrounds, picnic areas with mature trees, and the lively Saturday farmers market. The green grass and shady areas provide a pleasant backdrop. Reddit

Yes, with its playgrounds, green spaces, and picnic areas, it's a great, relaxed environment for capturing family moments. The natural shade is also a plus. Reddit

The farmers market is a vibrant scene, perfect for candid shots of vendors and shoppers. Be mindful of people's privacy when taking photos. Reddit

The combination of a community park, library, and bustling farmers market offers a unique blend of local life that can make for interesting photographs. Reddit+1

The park has a good mix of open, sunny areas and shaded spots provided by mature trees, offering flexibility for photography throughout the day. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Virginia Avenue Park is a dream for families! With two playgrounds, including one praised as 'one of the best,' and a seasonal splash pad, kids will have endless fun. Remember to check the splash pad's operational status by calling (310) 458-8974 before you visit, as it can sometimes be out of order. Reddit

The park offers plenty of shady seating and picnic tables, making it perfect for a relaxed family outing or a birthday party. The clean restrooms are a lifesaver for parents. On Saturdays, the farmers market adds an extra layer of excitement, though it can get busy, so an early arrival is recommended for easier parking and browsing. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers & Locals

This park is a gem for budget-conscious visitors and locals looking for free, quality recreation. Entry to Virginia Avenue Park is free, and it offers a wealth of amenities including playgrounds, basketball courts, and ample green space for relaxing or picnicking. Reddit

The Saturday farmers market is a great place to experience local flavor without spending a fortune, offering fresh produce and unique finds. Combining a park visit with a stop at the adjacent Pico Branch Library is a perfect, low-cost way to spend an afternoon. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Community Hub: Virginia Avenue Park

Virginia Avenue Park is more than just a green space; it's a vibrant community hub. It features a community center that likely hosts various local events and programs. Adjacent to the park is the Pico Branch Library, offering a quiet retreat for readers and a valuable resource for families. This blend of recreational facilities and educational spaces makes it a well-rounded destination for residents and visitors alike. Reddit

The park's design emphasizes family-friendliness and accessibility. With two playgrounds, including one noted as particularly good for children, and a seasonal splash pad, it's a prime spot for kids to play and cool off during warmer months. The presence of clean restrooms and water fountains adds to the convenience for families spending extended time there. Reddit

Beyond the play areas, the park provides ample picnic tables and shady seating, encouraging visitors to relax, socialize, or enjoy a meal outdoors. The basketball courts offer opportunities for sports enthusiasts. The overall atmosphere is described as friendly and lively, especially on Saturdays due to the popular farmers' market. Reddit+1

Saturday Delights: Farmers Market & More

Saturdays at Virginia Avenue Park are a special occasion thanks to the farmers market. This bustling market is a highlight for many, offering a 'good selection' of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and likely prepared foods. It transforms the park into a lively social gathering spot, attracting locals looking for quality goods and a pleasant weekend outing. Reddit

While the market is a major draw, it also means the park can get crowded. Visitors are advised to arrive early to make the most of the market's offerings and to find easier parking. The market's presence adds a dynamic layer to the park experience, blending community commerce with outdoor recreation. Reddit

Even outside of market hours, the park is a fantastic place to spend time. The well-maintained grounds, ample shade, and variety of amenities ensure it's a pleasant destination any day of the week. The proximity to local restaurants and coffee shops further enhances its appeal as a convenient spot for errands and leisure. Reddit

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