Our Favorite Parks in Fremont and San Jose – A Parent’s Guide to Outdoor Fun

Sherrie A
Nov 12
2 min read

When we’re looking for a fun, affordable way to spend time together as a family, our go-to plan is simple: pack up some snacks and head to the park. Fremont and San Jose are home to some of the best family-friendly parks in the Bay Area, and over the years, we’ve built so many cherished memories running, playing, and picnicking in these green spaces.

Monkey Bars, Tag, and Soccer with Dad

Our park adventures usually start with a race to the monkey bars. Neal is fearless and will climb just about anything, while Raj is always looking for a game of tag or hide-and-seek. Sanjay enjoys kicking the soccer ball around with Dad, turning the open fields into their own mini match.

Parent Tip: Bring a ball, bubbles, or a kite—simple toys go a long way in turning a park visit into an all-day adventure.

Our Favorite Parks (and Why We Love Them)

Here are a few of our most-loved spots in Fremont and San Jose:

Central Park (Fremont): This one’s a family favorite. It has a huge playground, lots of open space for soccer, and beautiful Lake Elizabeth for strolling.
Shoup Park (Los Altos – worth the short drive!): Quiet, shady, and full of nature trails. Perfect for a relaxed weekend picnic.
Alum Rock Park (San Jose): A blend of hiking trails and kid-friendly play areas with stunning views.
Lake Cunningham Park (San Jose): Features a fantastic skate park, splash areas, and tons of space to spread out.

Budget Tip: These parks are either free or low-cost with parking. Bring your own snacks or a picnic lunch to keep the day budget-friendly.

Simple Moments That Mean the Most

One of our favorite things to do is bring a picnic and meet up with other families. The kids run off their energy while the grownups chat and catch up. There’s something so peaceful about watching your children laugh and play in the sunshine, with no devices in sight.

Neal’s favorite park snack? Hands down, strawberries and juice boxes. Raj prefers chips, and Sanjay’s happy as long as there’s something sweet for dessert.

Tips for a Perfect Park Day

Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, water bottles, hand wipes, and a small first aid kit.
Plan Ahead: Choose a park with restrooms and shade (especially during summer).
Get Social: Invite friends or family to join—group park days are double the fun.
Unplug: Leave phones in your bag and be present with your kids. Play tag, toss a ball, or just sit and chat.

Why Park Days Matter

As parents, we sometimes forget how powerful these small outings can be. A trip to the park is more than just playtime—it’s a chance to build bonds, create traditions, and give our kids the gift of presence.

So next weekend, grab your picnic blanket, some snacks, and a soccer ball. Head to your local park, and let your kids show you how magical the simple things can be.