Garfield Square

Garfield Square Park is a 3.46-acre public park located in the Mission District of San Francisco, California. The park, bounded by 25th Street to the north, 26th Street to the south, Treat Avenue to the west, and Harrison Street to the east, has served as a recreational space for the community since its establishment in 1884.

Originally the site of Recreation Grounds, California's first professional baseball park dating back to 1868, Garfield Square has evolved into a modern, multi-use facility. The park underwent a significant $19.7 million renovation project, completed in 2021, which revitalized and expanded its offerings to better serve the diverse needs of the neighborhood.

The centerpiece of the renovation is the new Garfield Center, which comprises a 3,550 square foot clubhouse and pool building sharing a single lobby area. The indoor pool has been completely refurbished, featuring a new shallow end for children and a moveable divider to accommodate different uses simultaneously, such as lessons and lap swimming.

Outside, visitors can enjoy new basketball courts and a splashpad for children. The renovation also included accessibility upgrades, improved landscaping, and the addition of a courtyard that connects the various park elements. The project aimed to create a more inclusive and functional space for community gatherings and recreational activities.

Art plays a significant role in the park's aesthetic appeal. A striking glass mural by artist Favianna Rodriguez spans the length of the pool, measuring 8 feet high and 113 feet long. The artwork, featuring vibrant colors and playful shapes, depicts a mother with her baby, two children, and a paletero (ice cream vendor), reflecting the cultural heritage of the Mission District. Additionally, the park features a restored mural from the 1980s, "Primal Sea," which was given new life through a restoration project led by Precita Eyes Muralists.

Garfield Square Park continues to be a vital community hub, offering a range of recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. Its renovation has enhanced its ability to serve as a gathering place for families, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful urban oasis in the heart of San Francisco's Mission District.