SAN MATEO, Calif. — The City of San Mateo celebrated the ribbon cutting and grand opening of its newly reimagined Central Park Playground on Tuesday, Nov. 10, unveiling Adventure Village, a woodland-inspired play destination designed to bring children and families together for generations to come.
The $8.9 million renovation transforms one of the city’s most beloved gathering places into an imaginative, inclusive playground with opportunities for children of different ages and abilities to climb, explore, create and connect. The design was shaped by community input and incorporates the park’s beautiful natural surroundings.
“Central Park doesn’t just serve one neighborhood — it unites our community,” said Mayor Adam Loraine. “With its inclusive design, imaginative play opportunities and beautiful setting at the center of San Mateo, the new Adventure Village is poised to become a space where children and families can play, connect and make lifelong memories for years to come.”
Adventure Village features an elevated boardwalk connecting woodland-themed play structures beneath the park’s mature trees, along with climbing, sliding, spinning and balancing activities. A dedicated toddler area offers interactive musical and sensory play experiences, while shaded picnic areas, reservable tables and a new restroom building provide additional amenities for families.
The playground’s design grew out of community workshops that began in 2014, when children, parents and other park visitors shared their ideas for a safe, imaginative and inclusive play space. Their feedback helped shape the Woodland Adventure Village theme, emphasizing nature-inspired play, exploration and accessibility.
Preserving Central Park’s mature oaks, redwoods and other heritage trees was also a major priority. Extensive tree protection measures were implemented during construction, and no trees were lost as a result of the project.
The $8.9 million construction project was funded through a combination of previously approved Parks and Recreation Revenue Fund allocations, the City’s General Fund, Measure S — San Mateo’s voter-approved local sales tax — and a contribution from the San Mateo City Parks and Recreation Foundation.
Construction began in June 2025 and was completed in approximately 18 months, at the shorter end of the original 18- to 24-month construction schedule. In addition to the new playground, improvements included upgraded pathways, lighting, landscaping, irrigation and underground utilities.
Located in the heart of downtown San Mateo, Central Park has welcomed generations of residents and visitors since opening in 1923. The new Adventure Village builds on that legacy, offering families from across the Bay Area another reason to visit. Central Park is also an important draw for local businesses, encouraging these families to explore nearby shops, restaurants, and other attractions while enjoying all it has to offer.
