Opened in April 2009 directly across from the Arizona State University Downtown Phoenix Campus, Civic Space Park is a 2.77-acre green space managed collaboratively by the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department and ASU. Designed with sustainable urban engineering, the park features shade canopies equipped with 75-kilowatt solar panels, pervious concrete surfaces to reduce storm runoff, a seasonal splash pad, and the historic A.E. England Building—a restored 1920s auto dealership that houses local art gallery spaces and meeting rooms. The park’s signature centerpiece is Her Secret Is Patience, a 145-foot-tall aerial fiber sculpture by artist Janet Echelman that illuminates with seasonal color-changing lights at night.
Park Hours: Open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Cooling & Shade: Over 70% of the park’s surface is shaded by mature trees and solar-panel structures, providing relief during hot desert days.
Interactive Splash Pad: Features a public splash pad water play area operating seasonally for visitors and families.
Zero dedicated parking spaces were built for the park to prioritize pedestrian use and mass transit. Metered street parking surrounds the perimeter, and nearby public parking structures (such as the ASU Downtown garages or 1st Avenue lots) are located within a short walk.
Light Rail: Directly adjacent to the Valley Metro Light Rail at the Van Buren / Central Ave and Van Buren / 1st Ave stations.
Bus: Located steps from Central Station, the primary Downtown Phoenix Valley Metro bus transfer terminal.
Fully ADA compliant with wide concrete pathways, street curb ramps, step-free access to the A.E. England Building, and accessible restrooms.
Picnic blankets, portable lawn chairs, and strollers.
Leashed, well-behaved pets (clean-up required).
Personal photography and non-commercial video.
Glass containers, open flames, or unauthorized alcohol.
Off-leash animals or illegal substances.
Motorized vehicles, skateboards, or unauthorized solicitation on park grounds.