Victory Park — Attraction in Stockton

How does one even start reviewing this beautiful gem when there are negatives to be pointed out? I decided to take off one start because it is definitely not the park's fault, if anything it would be the cracks in the walkway (watch out for your ankle!!). Anywho, speaking for only the park, it is a perfect place to run, jog, exercise, play base/soft ball, basketball, soccer, and tennis. If you're a parent then the playgrounds are a perfect option that will keep the kids busy with perfect view of the pond and the multitude of ducks hanging out there. There are many people who walk/run in the mornings (9am is when it slowly dissipates) and it gets busy again during the 4-6pm hours during the week. On the weekends it's a different story since the park is busy hosting parties for irresponsible parents. This is where the issues with this park lies. 🙄 it was never this bad but it has been increasing now and you will see people leaving their party garbage behind in piles where they held their party AND next to the sidewalk where they parked. It is so annoying to see because there are garbage cans EVERYWHERE in the park available for them to dispose of their mess and they will leave it behind regardless. Another constant issue is dog poop, now to be clear I love dogs, but there are dog owners that are diiiirtyy. There are so many people walking their dogs but when they poop they'll stare down at them lovingly AND FAIL TO PICK UP THEIR POOP. Sometimes the firefighters area will have poop bags in their bag dispenser located on their fence but more than usually it is empty so if you're planning on taking your animals please take poop bags and pick up after them. Another problem related to this is people not training their dog before bringing them to the park. Recently, an elderly lady was bit in the leg by a German shepherd that was extremely reactive and the 2 women walking it failed to restrain it and they ran away after the incident. In terms of sketchy individuals, you will find people in their cars smoking weed and you'll know it because it'll stink really badly and there are transients that live in their cars or set up behind the museum before it gets too busy. As for the park itself you will have to be sure to stretch those ankles because there are holes, cracks and uneven pavement in the walkways and grass but that's the only issue the park presents itself. Overall, it's a...

Victory Park is laid out well and has plenty of great features. In general people are friendly and respectful. It would be nice to see a Bocci court added.

The Haggin Museum is a great way to pass the time, supportive of cultural presentations not always available to smaller communities. It gives kids and adults alike an opportunity to experience something in the analog rather than digital realm, providing depth and perspective, simultaneously promoting a more upright posture while avoiding carpal tunnel, neck pain, eye fatigue and more generally, a sedentary myopic lifestyle.

Unfortunately as with any public place there are undesirable elements; in this case inconsiderate people who are total slobs, assuming others are there to clean up after their parties because they can't be bothered to clean up their trash or, bag their trash and leave it by the numerous trash cans strategically placed within several steps of their events, making it easier for the clean up crews there every morning.

Even worse are loose dogs or dog owners using the park as a toilet for the rest of us to step in, lay in or otherwise have to deal with ..... all because they can't be part of a responsible solution in keeping the space clean and safe for the rest of us. A few are locals on their walks but some drive in from other neighborhoods which ironically might be dirty, less safe or poorly maintained......go figure.

Common sense dictates in polite society that everyone be part of a team but for what ever reason even after gentle reminders there are some that simply don't care. Regardless of the language you speak or cultural considerations, cleaning up after yourselves is just common courtesy. What you do in private is your business of course.

Whether you own or rent a home here we all appreciate your help in keeping Victory Park and surrounding areas clean, safe and healthy. It costs nothing but a good attitude and consideration.

Enjoy this rare Stockton...

If you want to visit the Haggin Museum be sure to check the hours before your visit. They are always closed on Tuesday and the 2&4 Thursday. The ducks are still there in case you are wondering. The play area does have limited shade but early morning and late afternoon are perfect there. Hint: If parking is a breeze that heat is a problem in the park. The greater the challenge to park, the more shade has set in and it's the perfect time to be in the park. I noticed as we were leaving private concession stands springing up. Fruit Cups and Duritos. Not sure what else arrived after we left. Do grab your water bottles, blankets, sunscreen, and come out and...