Snow Park

Snow Park is a 5.1-acre urban green space located in downtown Oakland, California, adjacent to Lake Merritt. The park, which reopened in 2019 following significant renovations, offers a serene escape within the bustling city environment. Named after Henry Snow, whose animals once populated Oakland's first zoo at this site, Snow Park has a rich history dating back to the city's founding.

The park is characterized by its expansive lawns, towering oak trees, and well-maintained pathways that invite visitors to explore its landscape. Thick green grass covers much of the area, providing ample space for picnicking, relaxation, and casual gatherings. The park's design incorporates both open areas and more secluded corners, catering to various preferences for outdoor enjoyment.

Snow Park features two distinct play areas designed to accommodate children of different age groups. The smaller area is geared towards younger children and includes a short sidewinder slide, steps, educational and musical activities, a short bridge, and a tunnel. It is gated for added safety. The larger play area, suitable for older children, offers more challenging equipment such as a slide accessible only by ladder, suspended ropes, two styles of monkey bars, suspended lily pads, a rope tower, and spring-bottom platforms for balance practice.

One unique feature of Snow Park is downtown Oakland's only putting green, a holdover from the original 1960s design. This amenity adds a touch of recreational variety to the park's offerings.

The park's location provides beautiful views of Lake Merritt, enhancing its appeal as a spot for relaxation and contemplation. Its proximity to the lake also makes it a popular destination for both residents and visitors looking to enjoy Oakland's natural beauty.

Snow Park serves as a venue for community events and activities. It has been used as a staging area for the Oakland Running Festival since 2012, demonstrating its importance in the city's recreational landscape.