Holly Park is one of San Francisco's oldest city parks. It's on Holly Park Circle in the Bernal Heights area and covers the top of Holly Hill.
History
According to Wikipedia, the land was donated to the city in 1862. It came from a parcel that was once part of the Bernal land grant. The park was improved in the 1920s, and more city planning and money followed from the 1950s on. The name may come from the hollyleaf cherry, or Islais cherry, which once grew thickly near Islais Creek just south of the hill.
What's there
SF Rec and Park says the park has been completely renovated. It describes:
- A playground with slides, swings and climbing ropes that the San Francisco Chronicle rated highly
- Gated picnic and barbecue areas popular for birthday parties
- A path around the edge for walking or jogging, and a hill to climb for city views
- A tennis court, a basketball court and a baseball field
- Accessible restrooms, picnic area and play area
Wikipedia notes there's also public art, including Joyce Hsu's kinetic sculpture Odonatoa near the playground. Pair a visit with nearby Precita Park, also in Bernal Heights.