McKinley Park

McKinley Park is a historically significant 32-acre city park located in East Sacramento, California. Established in 1871 by the Sacramento Street Railway Company, it was initially called East Park and later renamed in 1902 to honor President William McKinley following his assassination.

The park features a diverse landscape with lush greenery, meandering pathways, and scenic ponds. Its perimeter is lined with ginkgo, mulberry, and sycamore trees, while the interior boasts mature London planes, elms, oaks, and coast redwoods placed in stands and groups throughout the site. Two large turf meadows are situated within the park, one in the northwest corner and another on the eastern side.

A notable feature of McKinley Park is the Fredrick N. Evans Memorial Rose Garden, established in 1928 in the park's southeast corner. This highly structured garden stands out from the rest of the grounds, featuring an array of planting beds and interstitial turf arranged in an oval shape. The rose garden, which contains over 1,200 rose bushes, is a popular spot for weddings and photography.

The park also includes Lake Kiesel, a naturalistic lake in the southwest portion that was transformed from the remnants of a slough. This picturesque pond is home to various waterfowl and provides a serene atmosphere for visitors.

McKinley Park serves as a hub for community engagement, hosting various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, fitness classes, and farmers' markets. Its vibrant atmosphere fosters a sense of unity and belonging among Sacramento residents.