Larsen Park

Carl Larsen Park is a 6.6-acre neighborhood park located in the Parkside District on the west side of San Francisco, California. It lies west of 19th Avenue, at the intersection with Vicente Street, and just north of Stern Grove. The park is named after Carl Larsen, a chicken rancher who donated the land to the city in 1926.

The park has a rich history and has undergone several changes over the years. From 1959 to 1993, it was known as "Jet Plane Park" due to the presence of three retired Navy jets that served as play structures for children. These aircraft made the park a notable landmark visible from the busy 19th Avenue.

In recent years, Carl Larsen Park has been renovated to meet the needs of the community. The playground was updated in 2015 with a $1 million project that included the addition of a jet-inspired sculpture and climbing structure, paying homage to the park's history while providing modern play equipment for children.

One of the park's prominent features is the Charlie Sava Pool, an indoor swimming facility named after a beloved local swimming instructor. The pool building, designed by architects Mark Cavagnero and Paulett Taggart, opened in 2008 and has been recognized for its architectural merit.

In December 2023, the park saw the addition of a new pickleball complex, featuring eight dedicated courts. This addition reflects the growing popularity of the sport and the park's evolution to meet community needs.

Carl Larsen Park serves as a multi-use recreational space for the Sunset neighborhood, offering a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages. Its location and facilities make it a popular destination for local residents seeking outdoor activities and community gatherings.