Uncovering Magical Places: Hidden East Bay Parks and Gardens

From Fairlyland's uncrowded little sister (where you can fish for crawdads with a paperclip and string) to a super slide that will make them scream with delight—these parks are hidden but beg to be found!

By Aly Brown November 6, 2014

The East Bay is absolutely bursting with parks where kids can build, play and ride. But if your mini is already considered the mayor of Adventure Playground or the Fairyland attendant knows your whole brood by name, it’s time to explore some of the areas hidden gems. From Fairlyland’s uncrowded little sister (where you can fish for crawdads with a paperclip and string) to a super-sized play structure that lets the littles pretend to be Spiderman and Jack Sparrow, all in one day. Click through to check out the parks that you’ve been missing!

Small World Park, Pittsburgh

Why It’s Great: It may be a small world, but most folks in the Brentwood, Pittsburgh, and Oakley areas have never heard of Small World Park. While it's easy to miss (look for the castle sign), it's definitely worth seeking out.

Go crawdad fishing in the stocked lake, and whoop it up on kiddie friendly rides and explore different themed play areas like Fort Knox, Robin Hood's Sherwood Forest, dinosaur glen, and even a barnyard. Despite being only open on the weekends during certain seasons, the crowds are never overwhelming and it’s small enough that older kids can buddy up and explore together. And get this: it’s super CHEAP. $2 per kid and $1.25 per ride wristband.

Where: 2551 Harbor St.
Pittsburg, Ca
Online: smallworldamusementpark.com

Good to Know: You can always find an abandoned fishing pole near the ponds, but it’s nice to bring your own. All you need is a stick, string, a paper clip (the hook), and cheap hotdogs (bait). Also check the park’s website for upcoming events (like the Halloween bash coming up on 10/26) and hours because it changes with the season. Parking is available.

What is your favorite off-the-radar East Bay park?

—Aly Brown