October 28, 2022

On Tuesday, October 25, 2022, the City and community of Garden Grove celebrated the opening of a new, all-inclusive, aviation-themed playground at Garden Grove Park, located at 9301 Westminster Avenue. The event, attended by an eager crowd of children and families, featured a ribbon cutting ceremony, themed giveaways, and treats.

“We’re not only commemorating the opening of a new playground for current and future generations of local kids to enjoy, we’re also celebrating an innovative design that helps the physical, mental, and emotional development of youth, allowing children with all ranges of abilities to play together,” said Garden Grove Mayor Steve Jones.

The 45-piece specialty playground replaces the previous aging playground with features designed for individuals of all abilities. The new playground includes ADA accessible play equipment; various musical instruments; words and symbols etched into several pieces to assist those with limited or no verbal skills; and sensory walls to stimulate, engage, and calm users.

In addition, the aircraft-themed playground, boasting airplane and rocket ship play towers, reflects the park’s history. Formerly known as Haster Farm airfield, Garden Grove Park was once owned by the United States Navy, and was used as a landing strip for airplanes during the 1940s and ‘50s.

“We decided to pay tribute to Garden Grove Park’s rich history by designing an aeronautical-themed playground, allowing children to let their imaginations take flight,” said Garden Grove Community Services Director John Montanchez.

Visitors can connect with the park’s past through a QR code placed on the playground signage, directing them to a digital archive detailing the park’s history as an aircraft landing location and flight-training site.

The new playground is part of a $1.3 million park improvement project that also includes a new large pavilion with built-in barbecues, and dining and preparation tables, and three new picnic shelters with an ADA accessible walkway.

Photos from the event can be found on the City’s Facebook @gardengrovecityhall.