Okay, Derek W, this one's for YOU - although not as thoroughly documented. You win THAT hands down!…read more
What a LOVELY Memorial community park! This park epitomizes Irvine's commitment to family spaces and community celebrations. Just the weekend before was the large, annual Memorial Day celebration and service for those who served in the US military. Some areas were still marked off, so we could see how large that event is and judging by the size of this park, it could well handle all who attended.
On this day, there were many families enjoying the kid friendly play areas, a church group holding services under one of the many picnic shelters, another small group enjoying Tai Chi, a couple taking - I'll assume - engagement photos in the Formal Garden and fountain area, as well as others relaxing under trees and jogging along the winding paths.
There are 3 massive fields conformed for baseball as well as soccer, and a forth, the Deanna Manning Stadium softball field, which is even larger than any of the other 3 fields and has it's own designated entry. Even batting cage areas! 6 courts - I'll presume for either tennis or pickle ball, the current rage, and plans for a future gymnasium, and community center. Additionally, there are open play areas, "informal gardens" and rock + water feature. The park runs along the San Diego Creek Channel with TONS of parking and so much to see and do! We pulled in looking for a restroom - lots of those too! - and stayed longer, exploring just the elevated Memorial Wall, Amphitheater, Formal Garden and 2 kid play areas. What can I say, I'm a sucker for elevated walkways and splash pads - don't judge!
Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park is an OUTSTANDING example of community pride, civic responsibility to honors those who have served, and positively the best use of park land I have seen in Southern California! A BIG CHEERS! "CC"