Village Park — Attraction in Rancho Cordova

Fair Oaks Village Park—affectionately called Chicken Park—has always been a cornerstone of the Fair Oaks community. I grew up coming here for concerts in the park, and now I bring my own kids. There’s something really special about watching them play while everyone’s gathered to listen to music. The recent renovations show real effort and care: the bathrooms were moved closer to the playground, the canopy adds welcome shade, and the extended play area up the hill is a nice touch. The space itself feels refreshed and more family-friendly in many ways. However, the new play structure feels like a missed opportunity. It’s now labeled for ages 5–12, where the previous design comfortably fit toddlers through older kids. The removal of the baby swings and the more complex climbing setup leave younger children with little to enjoy safely. On busier days, the single long tunnel slide and limited exits make things a bit chaotic—kids waiting in line, others trying to climb up the same slide, and a few tripping on metal parts or ropes. I’ve already seen several kids get hurt, which is bound to happen, but seems to happen more often on this new playground.

The previous design allowed smoother flow, multiple slides, and a wider age range to play together without crowding. A design more like Tupelo Park—where there are multiple climbing options and safer transitions—could have balanced challenge for big kids and accessibility for littles, much better. Even small touches, like refreshing the hopscotch and four-square area, would’ve helped make the renovation feel complete.

Fair Oaks Village Park is still a beloved part of our community. I just hope future updates bring back some of that inclusive, all-ages magic that made the playground such a gathering place for everyone. I’m sad this is no longer a place to meet other parents...

Came here for an evening concert. It's fairly big area for a crowd to set their chairs and watch the bands play. It's kind of buried in a fair oaks neighborhood and I parked on one side that I could only see like 12 parking spots and one handicap spot. I hear there was more parking on the other side that I couldn't see. Where I entered there was a gate that led to a childrens play area. Past that is a grassy area the east side of a cement stage where a band would play. As the sun sets there is plenty of shade when the band starts playing. I found the grass area to be somewhat uneven heading towards the stage so care must be taken when walking that way. There are sone picnic tables and shade trees for non event visits. I was unaware of any bathroom available on my only visit...

I recently moved to the area and was so excited for this park to open so I can walk here with my baby. While it looks fun for big kids, I was so disappointed to see that there’s virtually nothing for my baby to do here until she is much older. No baby/toddler swings, no small slides, climbing structures, or anything geared towards toddlers. This is the only park within walking distance for us so we’ll have to drive for her to be able to play at a more age appropriate park.

However, I am excited for the shows and events that will be going on here! I hope there are plenty of free and low cost events for young...