Boysen Park

Updated August 8, 2025

Description

Boysen Park has that sort of old-school charm you don’t see much these days. It’s a place where the grass has been worn down in spots from decades of baseball games, family picnics, and kids chasing each other until they’re red-faced and out of breath. The first thing most people notice? That permanently grounded jet airplane sitting right there in the middle of the park like it just decided to land and never leave. It’s been there for years, and while the paint’s a little faded, it’s still a magnet for curious kids and nostalgic adults who remember climbing on it when they were younger. There’s a sense of history here—not the kind you read about in textbooks, but the kind that’s built from countless Saturday afternoons and lazy summer evenings.

It’s not perfect, of course. Some areas could use a bit of TLC, and you might spot a few rough edges here and there. But that’s part of the story—it’s a lived-in park, not a manicured postcard. The baseball fields still host lively games, the tennis courts see their fair share of friendly matches, and the playground is almost always alive with the sound of kids who have no concept of an “inside voice.” And if you’re into simple pleasures, the picnic tables and barbecue grills are a solid invitation to slow down, eat something grilled, and just watch the day go by. Dogs are welcome, so you’ll see plenty of wagging tails trotting alongside their humans. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an hour or an entire afternoon without feeling rushed.

Key Features

• Permanently grounded jet airplane for kids to explore and adults to reminisce over
• Multiple baseball fields for casual games or local league matches
• Tennis courts for a quick rally or a more competitive set
• Playground with slides and swings, perfect for younger visitors
• Ample picnic tables and barbecue grills for family or group gatherings
• Public restrooms available for convenience
• Wheelchair accessible entrances and parking for inclusive access
• Dog-friendly atmosphere with plenty of open space to roam

Best Time to Visit

If you’re aiming for that sweet spot where the weather is pleasant and the park isn’t too crowded, late spring or early fall is your best bet. Summer can be fun—especially for the long daylight hours—but you’ll want to bring plenty of water and maybe stake out a shady spot early. Weekday mornings are generally quieter, which is ideal if you’re looking to avoid the weekend sports rush. On the flip side, if you enjoy the buzz of activity, Saturday afternoons during baseball season are full of energy, cheers, and the occasional smell of hot dogs wafting from someone’s grill.

Personally, I like late afternoons when the sun is low and the shadows stretch across the fields. There’s something about that golden light hitting the old airplane that makes it feel like a scene from a storybook, even if you’re just sitting there with a sandwich and a cold drink.

How to Get There

Reaching Boysen Park is straightforward if you’re coming from nearby city streets, and parking is usually manageable unless there’s a big game or event going on. The wheelchair-accessible parking spots are close to the main entrances, so mobility isn’t a hurdle. If you’re traveling by public transport, check the local bus routes—they often have stops within a short walking distance. For cyclists, the surrounding streets are bike-friendly enough to make the ride in enjoyable, especially on a cool morning. Just remember to lock up your bike near the designated racks to keep it safe while you explore.

Tips for Visiting

First off, bring sunscreen. Even if you think you won’t be out long, the open fields mean you’ll get more sun than you realize. If you’re planning to grill, arrive early to claim a barbecue spot—they can go quickly on weekends. For families, packing a small blanket or folding chairs makes picnicking a lot more comfortable, especially if you want to set up near the playground so you can keep an eye on the kids while they burn off energy.

Dog owners should bring water and waste bags—it’s a shared space, and keeping it clean is part of the unspoken agreement. If you want to avoid the busiest times, skip Saturday mornings during sports season. And here’s a little personal tip: bring a frisbee or a ball even if you don’t think you’ll use it. Nine times out of ten, someone ends up tossing it around, and it’s a great way to strike up conversations with strangers who might just become friends.

Lastly, don’t rush your visit. Boysen Park is one of those places that reveals itself slowly—the longer you linger, the more you’ll notice. Maybe it’s the way the light hits the baseball diamond, or the sound of a tennis ball being smacked back and forth in the distance. It’s these small, almost throwaway details that make the park feel like more than just another green space on a map.

Key Highlights

• Permanently grounded jet airplane for kids to explore and adults to reminisce over
• Multiple baseball fields for casual games or local league matches
• Tennis courts for a quick rally or a more competitive set
• Playground with slides and swings, perfect for younger visitors
• Ample picnic tables and barbecue grills for family or group gatherings
• Public restrooms available for convenience
• Wheelchair accessible entrances and parking for inclusive access
• Dog-friendly atmosphere with plenty of open space to roam

Location

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