Parque de la Paz
Rating
Family of 4
USD 0 — completely free
Duration
1-2.5 hours
Best Ages
1-17
About
Parque de la Paz is one of San Jose's most beloved public spaces, drawing 9,278 reviews at 4.4 stars from families who return again and again. The name — Park of Peace — suits the atmosphere perfectly: this is a place where San Jose residents of all ages come to breathe, exercise, play, and simply be outdoors.
The park is substantial in size, with a lake, walking and jogging trails, sports facilities, a variety of play equipment, and open green areas that invite impromptu football games and family picnics. For children, the variety means the park never gets boring — there's always another area to explore, another stretch of path to run down.
Open 6 AM to 6 PM daily (unlike many San Jose parks that are technically 24 hours but feel less safe at night), Parque de la Paz has consistent security and is genuinely family-friendly throughout the day. Morning visits catch the most active community energy — joggers, cyclists, families with strollers, and groups of kids from nearby neighborhoods. Bring a picnic, bring a ball, and let the park do the rest.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Setting
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (6-9 AM) or weekend mornings when locals exercise and families gather
Wait Times
No wait — free public park
Nearby Food
No on-site food vendors regularly. The Cascajal neighborhood surrounding the park has local restaurants and sodas within a short drive.
Why Kids Love It
A large, varied public park with a lake, sports fields, walking trails, and play equipment all in one — kids have room to sprint, explore, and discover something new around every corner.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Open 6 AM to 6 PM daily — one of the few San Jose parks with defined hours and security
- The park sees real community use — a great place to observe authentic Costa Rican family life
- Bring sports equipment — pickup games and family exercise are the norm here
What to Bring
- Picnic food and drinks
- Sports equipment — football, frisbee, bike for the trails
- Sunscreen and hats for extended outdoor time
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 0 — completely free
Tips to Save
- One of San Jose's best free family spaces.
- Bring a picnic and make a morning of it.
- The lake, play equipment, trails, and sports facilities mean everyone finds something to do.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Monday
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM