Helen Wills Park

Above the city’s clamor, at the corner of Broadway and Larkin, sits Helen Wills Park. It’s a tranquil escape, a green haven amidst the urban bustle. Helen Wills Park offers more than just a breath of fresh air. It carries the legacy of a tennis legend and echoes with the laughter of generations. Helen Wills, the park’s namesake, dominated the world of tennis, winning an astounding 31 Grand Slam titles between 1919 and 1938. Her prowess on the court is honored here, fittingly, with a tennis court and backboard within the park itself. The park’s history goes back even further. Originally named Spring Valley Playground in 1915, it was renamed in 1929 to honor the rising tennis star. The park underwent a significant transformation in the 1930s, thanks to the Works Progress Administration. The WPA, a New Deal program, regraded the land, paved the tennis courts and playground, and gave the recreation center a fresh coat of paint. A major renovation in 2005 further enhanced Helen Wills Park, adding a basketball court, a sandbox, swings, and a vibrant playground with a soft, safe surface. A unique aerial walkway provides a thrilling vantage point for children, while three slides offer exciting descents. Even with Broadway’s constant activity just outside, the park maintains a sense of peace. You’ll find a two-room clubhouse with restrooms and water fountains. There are picnic tables for a relaxing lunch and plenty of space for children to run and play. Helen Wills Park remains a testament to community effort and the enduring spirit of a tennis icon.