Union Landing Park

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Description

Tucked into Union City, California, and located right off Regents Boulevard, Union Landing Park is one of those local parks that instantly feels familiar and inviting. If you find yourself wandering near the Union Landing Shopping Center or looking for a green space to relax with your family, it’s a spot that delivers far more than you’d expect from a community park. I’ve stopped by during both quiet weekday mornings and rowdier weekend afternoons, and each visit left me glad it was just a short detour off the main road.

The park’s wide, clean expanse is peppered with mature trees offering plenty of shade—something you’ll really appreciate on sunny East Bay days. Well-marked paved paths run through the grounds, making it a simple place for a short walk or to let the kids coast around on scooters. But truthfully, the playground is the main draw for younger visitors. The design encourages kids to explore, climb, and burn off that boundless energy, while parents can watch from a bench or set up lunch at one of the picnic tables. Union Landing Park manages to be sociable and spacious, rarely feeling crowded even when it’s busy.

Accessibility is a real strength here, with flat walkways and a layout that suits strollers, mobility devices, or just anyone who likes a gentle stroll. Every time I visit, I see a diverse mix of locals—families with kids, groups of friends, dog owners, or solo visitors just enjoying a peaceful break. If you have your furry companion along, you’ll be pleased that dogs are welcome (just keep them leashed and remember to clean up after them).

So whether you’ve got an hour to spare before movie time, want a spot for a casual meetup, or aim to treat the kids to new playground equipment, Union Landing Park is a dependable and cheerful option right in the heart of Union City.

Key Features

• Spacious Playground: A large play structure with slides, swings, climbing areas, and kid-friendly surfaces. The layout lets kids roam while adults can keep sightlines with ease.
• Accessibility: Wide, paved paths; wheelchair-friendly parking and entrance; benches placed for convenience and comfort. The park is thoughtfully designed for all ages and abilities.
• Picnic Areas: Several picnic tables scattered under shady trees. They work great for midday breaks, group lunches, or birthday celebrations. Bring your own throw or snacks—the grounds are ideal for casual dining.
• Pet Friendly: Dogs are welcome. It’s common to see locals out for a stroll with their four-legged friends, especially early evenings. Remember city pet etiquette!
• Open Green Space: Plenty of grassy sections for tossing a frisbee, playing catch, or just lying under the sun. The open design means you rarely feel hemmed in, even during peak times.
• Shaded Seating: Mature trees keep things cooler in hotter months, and you’ll find benches tucked into those shady spots—much appreciated on a warm afternoon!
• Family-Friendly: The park’s vibe is laid-back and welcoming. Most weekends you’ll see families with toddlers, parents chatting, and the occasional birthday party.
• Convenient Location: Set adjacent to major shopping and dining at Union Landing, you can easily pop over for a meal, coffee, or ice cream after some time outside.

Best Time to Visit

Union Landing Park is open year-round and works well in almost every season, but a few times stand out if you want the best experience.

Mornings, especially on weekdays, tend to be calm and relaxed. I’ve enjoyed solo visits around 9am, with only a handful of regular walkers and a few parents letting their kids have some energy before errands. By midday on weekends, things pick up with families and small groups settling in for lunch or celebrations. Spring and early summer are probably my favorite periods—the temperatures are comfortable, the trees are green, and the playground equipment isn’t baking hot.

If you’re sensitive to heat, avoid the peak of summer afternoons. For playtime, late afternoons in fall are pleasant, with a golden light and cooler breezes. It’s also a safe bet for those who like a little less crowd while still having some cheerful buzz in the background.

Events like birthday parties or park playdates tend to happen after school lets out or on Saturday mornings, so if you prefer a quieter park, late mornings or early evenings work best. And, after rainfall, the grass might be soggy for a few hours, but the paved paths stay accessible.

How to Get There

Union Landing Park is easy to find and access, whether you’re arriving by car, public transit, or on foot. Its official address is 33000 Regents Blvd, Union City, CA 94587, just off Alvarado-Niles Road and moments from the I-880 exit.

By Car: If you’re coming from I-880, take the Alvarado-Niles Road exit and head west. Regents Boulevard is an immediate right after you pass the shopping center. The dedicated parking lot (including accessible spaces) is straightforward to spot. Parking has always been ample on my visits, and I’ve never had to circle more than once—even on weekends.

By Public Transit: Union City BART is about a ten-minute drive away, and several bus lines run toward Union Landing Shopping Center. From the transit stop, it’s about a five-minute walk along safe, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks.

On Foot or Bike: The surrounding area is designed for walking and cycling, with clear crosswalks and flat terrain. If you’re staying nearby, the stroll to the park is direct, with lots of local traffic for a sense of safety.

Locals often combine a trip to the park with stops at restaurants or shops in the adjoining Union Landing Shopping Center—it’s genuinely convenient if you’re fitting it into a packed schedule.

Tips for Visiting

• Bring water and snacks: While there are lots of dining options nearby, you’ll want to keep hydrated and have a little something for the kids (or yourself!) if you’re planning an extended stay. The picnic tables fill quickly during mealtimes on weekends.
• Consider the weather: Union City gets warm in late summer and early fall. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a small umbrella if you plan to stay for a while. The shady benches are great, but the playground surface can heat up.
• Monitor young kids: While the playground is generally safe with soft landings and sturdy equipment, it’s a good idea to keep eyes on younger children—especially during busy periods.
• Plan for dogs: Dogs are allowed but should be leashed. There aren’t bag stations throughout the park, so remember to bring your own waste bags and water for your pet.
• Mind the calendar: Weekend afternoons can coincide with nearby movie times or mall rushes, so traffic and parking in the shopping center may be busier. Early mornings or later in the evening sidestep this.
• Respect quiet hours: The park is bordered by residential neighborhoods, so keep noise to reasonable levels if you’re visiting outside peak hours.
• Check for community activities: Occasionally, local groups or schools host small events at the park. It’s worth keeping an ear out for pop-up fun, especially if you’re visiting with kids.

Union Landing Park may not shout for attention, but after several visits, it’s become a favorite for its friendly atmosphere, reliable amenities, and unbeatable convenience in Union City. If you’re nearby or just looking for a simple, cheerful stop to break up your day, this park is certainly worth a visit.