7 Unmissable Features Of May Nissen Park Livermore: 2025 Updates On The Inclusive Playground And Swim Center
May Nissen Park in Livermore, California, is far more than a typical neighborhood green space; it is a 12.2-acre community hub built on a foundation of local history and a commitment to modern, inclusive recreation. As of December 23, 2025, the park continues to serve the North Downtown Livermore area as a vibrant center for family gatherings, sports, and aquatic fun, managed by the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District (LARPD). Its most celebrated features—an award-winning playground and a seasonal swim center—have recently seen updates and new rental options for the upcoming 2025 season, making it a must-visit destination for both residents and Tri-Valley visitors.
The park’s enduring popularity stems from its diverse array of amenities, seamlessly blending historical significance with forward-thinking design. From its extensive sports facilities to the 100% socially inclusive play area, May Nissen Park embodies the spirit of community that its namesake, a legendary local teacher, championed for decades. This guide explores the seven most unmissable features and the latest updates you need to know before your next visit.
The Life and Legacy of May Nissen: A Livermore Icon
The story of the park begins with the remarkable woman for whom it is named: May Nissen. The requirement to profile her is a testament to her importance in the Livermore community.
- Full Name: May G. Nissen
- Born: 1884
- Died: 1981
- Primary Role: Longtime Livermore Teacher
- Local Impact: Widely regarded as one of the most important women in Livermore history.
- Family Connection: The park land was originally donated by her niece, Mrs. Maysie May Nissen Copple, in 1957.
- Park Naming: The 12.2-acre community park was officially named after her in 1962.
- Family in Education: Her brother, Roger Nissen, was also a teacher, notably at Highland School, underscoring the family's deep ties to local education.
May Nissen dedicated her life to educating the youth of Livermore Union High School. Her legacy of service was honored posthumously, cementing her name to a central community gathering space. The land itself was donated in memory of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Nissen, ensuring the family name remains a permanent fixture in the city's recreational landscape.
1. The Award-Winning, Socially Inclusive Playground
The centerpiece of May Nissen Park is its sprawling, 1.88-acre playground, which underwent a major, award-winning renovation in 2019. This is not a standard playground; it is a 100% socially inclusive play space designed to accommodate children of all ages and abilities, similar in concept to a Magical Bridge park.
The design focuses on accessibility and creative engagement. The main structure is accessible via an elevated sidewalk, in addition to traditional steps, ladders, and climbing walls.
Key features of the inclusive playground include:
- Accessible Structures: Ramps and elevated walkways ensure all children can reach the main play deck.
- Unique Design Elements: The area is covered by four large red and blue shades, creatively designed like bloomed daisy flowers, providing essential sun protection.
- Diverse Play Zones: The park includes a variety of play structures, a spiral slide, swings, and freestanding play activities that encourage diverse sensory and physical engagement.
This commitment to inclusive play has made the playground a regional draw, attracting families from across the Tri-Valley area who seek a fun, safe, and welcoming environment for every child.
2. May Nissen Swim Center (Seasonal 2025 Update)
The May Nissen Swim Center is a vital aquatic facility operated by LARPD, offering a recreational pool experience during the summer months. The pool was originally constructed in 1963, a year after the park was officially named.
2025 Seasonal Information:
While the May Nissen Swim Center is typically closed for Recreation Swim during the fall and off-season, its summer schedule is a major attraction. For the 2025 summer season, the pool is a key component of the new group rental package.
Key Swim Center Details:
- Seasonal Operation: Primarily open during the summer.
- Available Classes: The center has historically offered classes such as snorkeling, scuba diving, water polo, and various deep and shallow water exercises.
- Rental Availability: Group swim hours are available for reservation through August 8, 2025, with specific swim hours from 1:00 PM to 3:45 PM on weekdays (excluding holidays).
For year-round swimming, the nearby Robert Livermore Aquatic Center serves as the district’s primary facility, but the May Nissen Swim Center remains the preferred spot for summer fun in North Downtown.
3. The Px3 Rental Package: Picnic, Playground, and Pool
A significant, fresh update for the 2025 season is the introduction of the "Px3" rental option, specifically designed for groups, parties, and summer gatherings. This package offers a convenient, all-in-one solution for hosting an event at the park.
The Px3 package includes integrated access to three main park features:
- Picnic areas (group reservation areas).
- Playground (the inclusive play space).
- Pool (the May Nissen Swim Center during designated hours).
This new, streamlined rental process highlights the park's function as a premier venue for community events and family celebrations throughout the summer season.
4. Comprehensive Sports and Recreation Facilities
Beyond the playground and pool, the 12.2-acre park is a hub for numerous recreational activities, catering to a wide range of athletic interests. The park’s diverse amenities contribute significantly to its high topical authority as a multi-use community space.
The sports facilities include:
- Basketball Courts: Available for casual play and organized games.
- Tennis Courts: Providing space for lessons and recreational tennis.
- Baseball Field: A dedicated area for baseball and softball leagues and practices.
- Open Fields: Ample space for general recreation, running, and informal sports.
These facilities ensure the park remains active year-round, serving as a primary location for youth sports and adult fitness in Livermore.
5. Dedicated Picnic and BBQ Areas
May Nissen Park is perfectly equipped for family picnics, barbecues, and large group gatherings. The park features designated group picnic reservation areas, which are essential for birthday parties and large community events.
Amenities in the picnic areas include:
- Picnic Tables: Numerous tables available throughout the park.
- Barbecue Grills: Dedicated BBQ pits for cooking and hosting outdoor meals.
- Restrooms: Public restroom facilities are conveniently located near the main activity areas.
These facilities, combined with the playground and pool access, make the park a complete destination for a full day of family fun.
6. Proximity to the Livermore Public Library
Another unique feature of May Nissen Park is its adjacency to a remote branch of the Livermore Public Library. This proximity creates a beneficial synergy, allowing families to combine outdoor playtime with educational and reading activities.
The park’s location in North Downtown Livermore, an area primarily made up of single-story residences, positions it as a vital green space and community resource for the surrounding neighborhood.
7. Future Planning and Master Plan Updates (2026)
As a key component of the LARPD system, May Nissen Park is included in the district’s ongoing Master Plan Update process. This ensures the park's facilities and services will continue to evolve to meet the community’s needs. While no immediate major construction is scheduled, the district is planning future community input sessions related to park facilities, with dates like Saturday, January 24, 2026, already noted for master plan discussions.
This continuous planning demonstrates LARPD’s commitment to maintaining May Nissen Park as a modern, high-quality recreational asset for decades to come, building on the legacy of its namesake. Whether you’re utilizing the 2025 Px3 package, enjoying the inclusive playground, or simply relaxing under the shade of a daisy-flower canopy, May Nissen Park remains a cornerstone of the Livermore community.
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