Virginia Avenue Park

The scoop

Virginia Avenue Park is a 9.5-acre community campus in the Pico neighborhood — playgrounds, a seasonal splash pad, picnic areas, restrooms, the Pico Branch Library, and a Saturday farmers market. It's a local park, not a beach day.

What to do

Use the playgrounds, and in summer hit the free splash pad (daily 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day). On Saturdays, the Pico Farmers Market runs 8 a.m.–1 p.m. year-round, rain or shine, at 2233 Pico Boulevard, on this campus; the city may close it for holidays or extreme weather. Picnic tables and city barbecues are here if you want to eat. Birthday parties are welcome; you only need a permit if the group is over 150 people.

When to go

The park is open daily 6 a.m.–11 p.m. Saturday morning is the time to combine the market with the playground. The splash pad is a summer-only reason to come — Memorial Day through Labor Day — and stays off the rest of the year.

Who it's for

Pico neighborhood families and anyone who wants a playground, a library stop, or a Saturday market without going downtown.

Kids: A good pick with young kids. Playgrounds year-round, a splash pad in summer, and restrooms on site. Bounce houses, propane, and hanging a piñata aren't allowed.

Insider tips

• The official parking lot is at 2201 Pico Boulevard.
• The official park page lists restrooms; it doesn't publish restroom hours.
• Dogs are allowed on a leash, with clean-up materials. City rules keep them off playgrounds and courts.
• Thelma Terry Building, Teen Center, and PAL Fitness Center are on this campus if you need a program, not just a playground.

Skip it if…

You want a beach or an ocean view. This is a neighborhood community park.