Cesar Chavez Park

Cesar E. Chavez Park is a 32.9-acre urban green space located in Long Beach, California. The park offers a serene retreat for both locals and visitors. The park's development began in the mid-1980s with a community planning process, and it officially opened to the public in 1999.

The park's centerpiece is a 10,500 square foot craftsman-style community center, which opened in 2001. Adjacent to the community center is an outdoor amphitheater, added in 2006, which features spiral walkways in a nautilus design descending to a central stage. This amphitheater is well-suited for various community events, including plays, concerts, weddings, and children's programs.

Cesar E. Chavez Park boasts a large meadow area, providing ample space for recreational activities and relaxation. The park also includes picnic areas, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor meals in a pleasant setting. For families with children, the park offers two playgrounds.

In a unique partnership with the Long Beach Unified School District, one block of the park serves as the play area for Cesar Chavez School, which opened in 2005. As part of this arrangement, the school's multi-purpose cafeteria/auditorium was expanded into a gymnasium that is open to the public during non-school hours.

The park's location near the waterfront adds to its appeal, offering picturesque views that are particularly attractive to photography enthusiasts. Wide walking paths lined with trees and plants provide opportunities for leisurely strolls or brisk walks, offering a refreshing escape from city life.

Future plans for Cesar E. Chavez Park include creating a bike connection to the LARIO bicycle trails and converting an empty building space into a teen center. There are also plans to transform a meadow area into a soccer field, further expanding the recreational offerings of this versatile urban park.