For New Yorkers looking to celebrate Easter Sunday outside with family and friends, El Dorado East Regional Park is the go-to destination, and the city has just released a set of tips to make your hop into holiday fun a smooth one. Boasting a vast 388 acres of open space, complete with picnicking areas, playgrounds, and bicycle trails, it's no surprise that this Long Beach, California, park draws the biggest crowd of the year on Easter, as per the City of Long Beach.
With a high influx of visitors expected on March 31, those planning to soak up some sun and fun at El Dorado East should be ready to follow some rules. According to a release from the City of Long Beach, arrivals need to aim early as park hours are set from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and all must vamoose by closing time. And don't go thinking you can park on the green just anywhere; unless it's a designated patch, your wheels could end up towed or ticketed.
And let's talk turkey—or in this case, parking fees: it'll be $9 to park your ride, with both cash and credit accepted, just bear in mind no refunds will be issued. To get to the park, Gate 2 is your only point of entry off the north side of Spring Street, so prepare to possibly cool your heels in a lengthier queue than the one at your favorite brunch spot, according to the City of Long Beach. The strategy here is clear - be an early bird or risk missing out. Space in picnic zones is up for grabs on a first-come, first-served basis, so forget the notion of last-minute laying claim to the perfect spot.
Visitors who are winging it for additional parking have an overflow area ready in Area 3, just follow the signs, but you may have to trek a bit to your picnic locale of choice. It's also worth noting that extra LAPD personnel might be around, ensuring the traffic flow isn't jammed up. No drop-offs or unload shenanigans will be tolerated on Spring or Wardlow Roads. Bear in mind, that it's also possible the gates will slam shut once lots hit capacity. If this happens, even if you're just zipping out for more ice or eggs, re-entry isn't a guarantee.
For the little bunnies hoping to hop on rides, they'll have to wait for another day, as the El Dorado Frontier Theme Park and El Dorado Nature Center will be closed. However, for those looking to adopt a new furry family member, Long Beach Animal Care Services will be a hive of activity from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., with adoption hours ending at 3 p.m.
