Lincoln Square Park

Lincoln Square Park is a historic public space located in the heart of Oakland's Chinatown neighborhood. Established in the 1850s as one of Oakland's seven original public squares, the park has been a central gathering place for the community for generations. Spanning 1.75 acres, Lincoln Square Park serves as a vibrant urban oasis that accommodates a diverse range of activities and visitors.

The park is characterized by its bustling atmosphere, with an estimated 1,000 to 1,500 people using the space daily. It caters to a multi-generational and multi-cultural population, reflecting the rich heritage of Oakland's Chinatown. The park's design includes both recreational facilities and green spaces, providing a balance between active use areas and more tranquil settings.

A notable feature of Lincoln Square Park is the iconic junk boat playground, originally dedicated in 1969, which serves as a unique and culturally significant play structure for children. The park also houses a recreation center that offers a variety of programs and classes for all age groups, from pre-schoolers to seniors.

Lincoln Square Park plays a crucial role in the neighborhood, particularly for the adjacent Lincoln Elementary School, whose students use the park for recess and physical education. The park's central location and diverse offerings make it a hub for community activities, cultural events, and daily exercise routines for local residents.

The park has undergone several renovations and improvements over the years to meet the changing needs of the community. Recent efforts have focused on expanding and modernizing the recreation center to enhance its capacity for community programs and improve its resilience features.