A few months ago I finally had a chance to take my kids to Fairytale Town in Sacramento’s William Land Park. If you’re familiar with Sacramento than you know that this is kind of a staple of childhood in the Sacramento region. I’ve heard about Fairytale Town since we moved back to California in 2012, but just could never seem to make the drive over there until now. We ended up having a very nice morning exploring all the different play areas and I’m excited to share these Fairytale Town tips with you today!

what is Fairytale Town?

Nestled in the heart of Sacramento’s William Land Park, Fairytale Town is a 3.5-acre children’s play park and outdoor museum that first opened in 1959. Designed to bring classic fairytales and nursery rhymes to life, this enchanting destination offers a blend of interactive playsets, charming gardens, and friendly animals, making it a must-visit for families seeking a whimsical adventure.

a step back in time: the history of Fairytale Town

Fairytale Town opened its gates on August 29, 1959. It was (and continues to be) a gift to the children of the Central Valley from the City of Sacramento, the Junior League of Sacramento, and other community leaders. Over the decades, it has evolved into a cherished and nostalgic landmark.

what can you do at Fairytale Town?

exploring the enchanted attractions

Fairytale Town boasts over 25 playsets inspired by well-known and beloved stories and rhymes. You can expect to easily spend half a day here and we had a blast checking everything out! We definitely had some favorite play areas. Here are some highlights you’ll find during your visit:

• King Arthur’s Castle: Step into medieval times with this castle featuring a maze-like entrance and vibrant murals. Parties can also be booked in this space, although I personally think some of the outside garden areas would be nicer for parties!
• The Crooked Mile: A winding path that offers a tenth of a mile of exercise and fun, it’s a favorite among young visitors–and adults! We loved this area and walked it over and over.
• The Old Woman in the Shoe Slide: This iconic structure meets you at the entrance to Fairytale Town and features the park’s tallest and fastest slide. Even my littlest one loved sliding through the shoe!
• Owl’s Tree House: Climb to the top of this treehouse, inspired by Pooh’s wise friend, and enjoy a ride down the corkscrew slide. This is right next to the Crooked Mile so we spent a long time here!

animal encounters and gardens

In addition to plenty of play areas for young kids, Fairytale Town is home to a variety of animals, including pigs, goats, and chickens. The park also features charming gardens, such as the Alphabet Garden, where each plant corresponds to a letter, making it both educational and delightful.

listen to the story boxes

Throughout Fairytale Town you’ll find story boxes that will play the stories and songs that go along with several of the playsets. You can rent a “key” for these boxes for $3 (plus a $17 deposit that you get back) and it adds to your experience! We didn’t do this during our visit, but it seems like a fun activity.

Fairytale Town tips for a successful visit

To make the most of your visit, consider these Fairytale Town tips:

1. Check the days and hours: Fairytale Town’s hours vary seasonally and the park closes during rainy weather. Always verify the current hours on their official website or call ahead. There are also special events on different days throughout the year so make sure you check for early closures on their website.
2. Plan for snacks and meals: The on-site Dish & Spoon Café offers some snacks and treats. However, I recommend just bringing your own and enjoying a picnic on the grounds! Picnic areas are available throughout the park.
3. Let kids be kids: Give your child time to explore and let their creativity lead the way. Strolling through the park without a strict agenda can lead to the most magical experiences.
4. Safety first: Fairytale Town is enclosed by gates, but it is a large area. So make sure you designate a meeting spot in case anyone gets separated. The park recommends the Candlestick by the front office as a recognizable landmark.
5. Plan the best day: Weekday mornings are typically less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience. Plus you can get in and out before the day gets too hot. This will be especially important in the hot Sacramento summers!

Have you ever visited Fairytale Town?