Martial Cottle Park Winter Agriculture Heritage & Family Farm Walk

About this adventure

Martial Cottle Park is a unique 287-acre agricultural park in South San Jose preserving the historic farming heritage of the Santa Clara Valley, once internationally celebrated as the 'Valley of Heart's Delight.' Donated by the descendants of pioneer farmer Edward Cottle, the park functions as an active agricultural preserve and environmental education center right in the middle of suburbia. Wide, flat paved trails—including a paved three-mile perimeter loop—provide an ideal path for strollers, wagons, tricycles, and walking toddlers. In the winter season, rows of heirloom fruit trees stand dormant while cover crops green up the fertile fields. Families can explore the University of California Master Gardener demonstration plots, inspect antique tractors and farm machinery, and visit the park's vibrant farm-themed children's playground featuring climbable tractor structures, tire swings, and crop-sorting sensory boards. The visitor center offers interactive historical exhibits that teach children where their food comes from. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Miles of completely flat, paved multi-use asphalt paths and wide decomposed granite walkways connect the parking lots, visitor center, playgrounds, and agricultural demonstration zones. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Large covered group picnic pavilions, shaded benches, and modern eco-friendly restrooms with baby changing stations near the main visitor center and playground. • Age Suitability: Wonderful for all ages from stroller-bound babies and curious toddlers to school-age kids and grandparents. • Sensory Tips: Expansive, wide-open country feel with fresh earthy aromas, mild winter sunshine, and peaceful surroundings; plenty of space for energetic kids to run freely.