Kennedy Park

Riding the train at Hayward's Kennedy Park.

The most heavily used recreation area in Hayward, Kennedy park features a historic carousel, train ride, petting zoo, children's playground, concession stand, tennis courts and other recreation amenities.

The park was established in the 1940s. It originally was called Airport Park due to its proximity to the Hayward Airport. Back in those days, the park's main feature was a decommissioned P-35 fighter jet which had been converted to a children's play structure. Children came from miles around for the chance to climb onto the jet's wings and to play in the cockpit. The park also had a mini race car track at one time.

Today, Kennedy Park is managed by the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District. Situated next door to the historic McConaghy Estate house, Kennedy Park is scheduled for a major renovation in the near future.