About Burton W. Chace Park
Burton W. Chace Park is a 10-acre waterfront public park on Mindanao Way in Marina del Rey, California (visitmdr.com) (chacepark.com). Established in 1972 and named for LA County Supervisor Burton W. Chace (often called the “Father of the Marina”) (chacepark.com), it juts out into the Marina’s main channel. With lush lawns, mature trees and shoreline on three sides, the park offers panoramic views of yachts and the Pacific beyond (chacepark.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov). It is often called the “crown jewel of the Marina” for its scenic outlook and relaxed, family-friendly vibe (beaches.lacounty.gov). Signature features include built-in barbecue grills, picnic tables and pergolas for outdoor gatherings (chacepark.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov). The park also has meeting rooms and a Tidewater Recreation Center building, plus shoreside mooring docks for visiting boaters (chacepark.com) (www.charterworld.com). Admission is always free, making Chace Park a hub for year-round community events as well as everyday recreation.
Events and Programming
Chace Park is best known for its annual event calendar. In summer, the Los Angeles County Dept. of Beaches & Harbors stages the free Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series most Thursdays and Saturdays from July through August (visitmdr.com) (www.venicepaparazzi.com). These concerts alternate between symphonic performances (with the Marina del Rey Symphony) and pop/jazz/crossover acts. Past lineups have featured artists ranging from classical opera productions (Puccini) and orchestral film scores, to rock and jazz acts (e.g. Rickie Lee Jones, Yo La Tengo, Arturo Sandoval) (www.venicepaparazzi.com) (www.livewayfarer.com). All concerts start at 7:00 PM and use festival-style lawn seating (bring chairs/blankets) (visitmdr.com) (www.venicepaparazzi.com). Gourmet food trucks usually arrive around 5 PM on concert nights (www.venicepaparazzi.com). Admission is always free, though an online RSVP is recommended. (visitmdr.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov)
In late summer the park hosts free «Marina Movie Nights» on select Saturdays, showing family films under the stars (beaches.lacounty.gov). For example, 2025 showings include classics like *Jumanji* and *Grease* starting at 8:00 PM (beaches.lacounty.gov). Again, no tickets are sold – just come early with blankets and low-back chairs. Outside of summer, Chace Park is the focal point for Marina del Rey’s signature celebrations: on July 4th each year a 20-minute firework display launches at 9:00 PM over the water (best viewed from Chace Park or adjacent Fisherman’s Village) (beaches.lacounty.gov). The first Saturday in December brings the Marina Holiday Boat Parade, with illuminated boats and a pre-parade fireworks preview. Other notable annual events include the MarinaFest/Discover Marina del Rey Day (fall boating festival and open house), an Old-Fashion Day featuring vintage yachts and classic cars in summer, harbor kayak days, and even winter “Snow Wonder” family fun events. The park also grounds weekly fitness and art classes (yoga, walking club, watercolor) open to the public (beaches.lacounty.gov), making it an active neighborhood spot year-round.
Tickets and Booking
Nearly all events at Chace Park are free to the public. The summer concert series and movie nights do not sell traditional tickets; instead, organizers ask attendees to RSVP online for updates but entry is really first-come, first-served (visitmdr.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov). There is no box office or paid ticket counter. For paid community events (if any) or park facility rentals, the LA County Beaches & Harbors department coordinates reservations. In practice, visitors should simply arrive early for popular shows and follow official announcements on the Marina del Rey tourism site. Because seating is general admission festival style (visitmdr.com), there are no reserved seats or different pricing tiers – everyone pays the same (usually nothing). If special concerts or festivals did charge, tickets would be managed through the county’s event page, but to date most Chace Park programming remains free with recommended RSVP online. (visitmdr.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov)
Seating and Layout
Burton Chace Park has no fixed seats or bleachers – events use the open lawn area for audience seating. All seating is “festival-style” on the grass, so plan to sit on blankets or low lawn chairs brought from home (visitmdr.com) (www.venicepaparazzi.com). The best viewing areas are those closer to center stage: aiming for the middle of the lawn provides the clearest sightlines and sound. Audience members are asked to use only low-back chairs or blankets (no tall chairs) and not to erect tents or large umbrellas (www.venicepaparazzi.com) (visitmdr.com). There are no VIP or premium sections for public shows – every spot is open. The park’s gently sloping lawns and minimal obstructions mean that even off-center spots can still see the stage, but you may be farther from action or sun orientation. Accessibility-friendly seating is available near the front, and pathways allow wheelchair access to the lawn area (beaches.lacounty.gov). In general, arrive early on event days to stake out good space. When there are no events, the lawns are laid out for picnics and casual recreation, and permanent picnic tables and barbecue pits invite visitors to spread out facing the marina. (Sound and lighting equipment are brought in for concerts; the park itself is not a covered amphitheater.)
Getting There and Parking
Burton Chace Park is located at 13650 Mindanao Way in Marina del Rey (Los Angeles County) (visitmdr.com). By car, it’s just north of the intersection of Mindanao Way and Fiji Way. From the 405 freeway, take the Marina Freeway (Route 90 West) and exit at Mindanao/Fiji, then head north. From Pacific Coast Highway, head south on Lincoln Boulevard and enter Marina del Rey via Mindanao or Fiji. Parking near Chace Park is limited. The park itself has a small metered lot at the entrance (90-minute max, about $0.25/10 min) and large LA County parking lots on Mindanao Way (Lots #4, #5 and #77). On concert nights these county lots charge a flat fee (typically $8–$10 cash only) (www.chacepark.com). On July 4th, holiday rates on lot parking range from about $11–$20 (beaches.lacounty.gov). Street parking is scarce and strictly monitored. Rideshare drop-offs can be made at the Mindanao Way entrance. Public transit options include LA Metro bus lines (for example Metro 3 and Culver CityBus 33) serving Admiralty Way nearby, as well as the free Beach Shuttle (weekend/holiday service May–Sept to MDC/Garden Grove area (beaches.lacounty.gov)). Uniquely, the Marina del Rey WaterBus (a $1 harbor shuttle) runs along the channel in summer, stopping at Burton Chace Park’s docks (chacepark.com). Cyclists can join the 22-mile South Bay Bike Trail that passes through the park (chacepark.com). In all cases, it’s wise to arrive early and allow extra time – traffic and lot fill-up are common on event days.
Inside the Venue
Chace Park is essentially one large open park, so “entering” just means walking through the gates or lawn areas. For big events (concerts, fireworks) there may be security checks at Park Drive entrance, but usually it’s a casual, friendly vibe. There are no ticket turnstiles or assigned seating. In the park you’ll find asphalt paths, picnic shelters, restrooms (including accessible facilities by the entry building), and a lawn of gentle grass. Bring comfortable clothing and layers – mornings can be cool and afternoons often sunny. During events, concession trucks offer snacks and meals; outside food and coolers are limited (the permanent picnic grills and tables are for pre-event picnics). The park is wheelchair/stroller accessible throughout (beaches.lacounty.gov). Restroom facilities (ADA-compliant) are located near the entry gate building, and portable toilets may appear on busy nights. There is no coat check or Wi-Fi zone, so plan accordingly. If catching a boat cruise or planning to dock, the park’s guest mooring includes floating slips upgraded in 2014 (www.charterworld.com). In general, expect a relaxed seaside park atmosphere: families spreading blankets on the grass, children playing near the water (supervised), and vendors selling merchandise or refreshments only during events. Be sure to shut down all smoke and fireworks devices on July 4th except the official show – the park strictly controls any pyrotechnics. (beaches.lacounty.gov)
Nearby Amenities
Marina del Rey offers many options for dining, drinks and lodging within a short distance. Just south of the park is Fisherman’s Village, a quaint waterfront retail area with restaurants like Kincaid’s (steak/seafood), Tony P’s Dockside Grill, and casual cafes. Nearby waterfront venues include SALT Restaurant & Bar (American-Californian cuisine), Cast & Plow (brunch and Asian fusion at The Catamaran Resort), and Chart House Steak & Seafood at Marina City Club. For pre-show meals, restaurants on Admiralty Way (Buford’s, Dockside) are steps away. Evening nightlife includes harbor-view bars and casual pubs in the Marina or neighboring Venice Beach. Hotels in and near Marina del Rey include the Marina del Rey Hotel, new Canvas Hotel (Marriott), Marriott Marina del Rey, and Hyatt House; Santa Monica lodgings lie 2–3 miles north. For accommodations, aim for a hotel near Mindanao or Fiji for a short taxi or Lyft to the park. On event nights it’s wise to arrive at least 30–60 minutes early for dining or staking parking, since post-event traffic can be heavy. Late-night ride-share service is the main option after park closing (10 PM), as local buses stop by then.
What Makes This Venue Special
Burton Chace Park’s unique character comes from being a built-on-water park right in Los Angeles County’s largest small-craft harbor. Because it projects into the main marina channel, every spot in the park feels waterfront, with sailboats, yachts and gentle waves all around (chacepark.com). The view linescape – often with Santa Monica and the Pacific on the horizon – is renowned as one of the best lookout points in the region (beaches.lacounty.gov). The park’s namesake, Supervisor Burton Chace, was instrumental in transforming marshland into Marina del Rey’s harbor, so the site is both natural jewel and civic legacy (chacepark.com). Its “crown jewel” reputation is reinforced by decades of free cultural programming – the 25th annual summer concerts in 2025, for example, celebrate a long-running tradition of arts access (beaches.lacounty.gov). Locals also cherish the park’s role in community rituals: watching Fourth of July fireworks light up the water (beaches.lacounty.gov), greeting the holiday boat parade in December, and even annual events like the Halibut Derby weigh-in at summer’s start. Unlike downtown venues, Chace Park is beloved for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere: kids picnic and play frisbee on the grass as bikers ride by on the coastal path (chacepark.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov). In short, artists enjoy the unique backdrop and appreciative crowds at Chace Park, and visitors love its blend of natural beauty, local history, and fun open-air events.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Burton Chace Park is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible (beaches.lacounty.gov), with paved paths and ADA restrooms. Service animals are welcome. Bikes are allowed on the bike path (locks recommended). Dress & Gear: Wear casual, beachy attire. Souvenir jacket or sweater is wise in evening (harbor breezes can be cool). Always bring a beach blanket or low-profile chair (no bulky seating at concerts (www.venicepaparazzi.com)). Sunscreen and an umbrella for sun protection on non-event days are recommended. If attending a concert or movie, arrive early – gates open well before showtime (usually 5–6 PM) – to get a good spot and avoid lines. Parking & Transit: Have cash for parking (lots on Mindanao take only cash (www.chacepark.com)). Consider the WaterBus or bike if you want to avoid driving. Pets: Dogs on leash are allowed in the park generally, but are discouraged or prohibited during big events (for safety; fireworks are especially distressing to animals). Prohibited: Full-size tents, large coolers, kites or drones are not allowed during events. Chairs with cupholders are fine, but no alcohol may be carried in (alcohol is sold at events via vendors). Photography: Personal snapshots are fine, but video recording or professional filming equipment may be restricted without permission. Weather: Chace Park events are rain-or-shine. If thunderstorms threaten, check the city or county park alert channels for postponements. On hot days, shade can be limited (bring a sun umbrella for daytime; not allowed during shows). After events, bus service may be reduced; prebook rideshares or plan your route in advance. Most importantly, check the official Marina del Rey or LA County Beaches website before your trip to confirm the latest schedule, house rules and any alerts. By planning ahead with these tips, you’ll make the most of this special Marina del Rey waterfront venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of events are held at Burton W. Chace Park?
Chace Park hosts free summer concerts (Thursdays & Saturdays, July–Aug), free outdoor movie nights (Aug–Sept Saturdays), annual July 4th fireworks, the December Holiday Boat Parade viewing, and community festivals like Discover Marina del Rey. Other events include fishing derbies, vintage yacht shows, kayak days and seasonal family activities. All are open to the public with no cover charge.
How do I buy tickets for the concerts or movies?
Almost all Chace Park events are free and do not require paid tickets. Instead, organizers usually offer a free RSVP or registration (via the county or tourism website) to get updates. Entry is based on first-come, first-served with no physical ticket needed (visitmdr.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov). For the summer concert series and movie nights, simply show up early, as seats are general admission on the lawn. There is no box office or ticket sales on site.
Is Burton Chace Park open every day and what are the hours?
Yes, the park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM (chacepark.com). The park office/recreation center on site operates from 8 AM to 8 PM. On non-event days you can visit for a morning jog or afternoon picnic at any time during those hours. On event days, concerts typically start at 7 PM and movie nights at 8 PM, so plan to arrive earlier according to the published schedule.
How much does parking cost at Burton Chace Park?
Parking rates vary. There is metered parking at the park entrance ($0.25 per 10 min, 90-min max) and large LA County lots (#4, #5, #77) on Mindanao Way that typically charge around $8–$10 on concert nights (www.chacepark.com). Payment is usually cash only. On major holidays (like July 4th) special rates apply (often $11–$20) (beaches.lacounty.gov). Weekday parking may be free or metered after certain hours. If possible, consider carpooling, using the free beach shuttle, or taking an Uber/Lyft to avoid parking hassles.
Is Burton Chace Park wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The park is designed to be ADA-accessible (beaches.lacounty.gov). Paved pathways lead from the entrance to the lawns, restrooms and picnic areas. The main event lawn is flat, allowing wheelchairs and strollers to access the festival seating area. There are accessible restrooms at the main building. During public events, organizers also reserve front-row spaces for wheelchair users.
Can I bring my dog to public events at the park?
On regular days, leashed dogs are welcome in Chace Park. However, during large events like concerts or fireworks the park often requests that pets stay home for safety. Loud noises and crowds can distress animals. If you do bring a dog on a quiet day, keep it leashed and clean up after it. Check event notices: sometimes “no-pets” policies are enforced for crowd control.
What should I bring to a summer concert or movie night?
Bring blankets or low-profile lawn chairs (no tall chairs or umbrellas allowed) (visitmdr.com) (www.venicepaparazzi.com). Sunscreen, a hat and water bottle are smart for hot days. On evening events, pack a light jacket or hoodie—temperatures drop near the water. For convenience bring small bills for parking and concessions. Food trucks will be on site for dinners. Also consider folding beach chairs if you have trouble sitting on the ground.
Are food and drinks available inside the venue?
Yes. At big events (concerts, movies) food trucks and beverage stands are usually on site starting in the early evening, offering snacks, meals and soft drinks. Outside of events, you may use the park’s picnic tables and built-in grills (chacepark.com), and there are restrooms and water fountains. Alcoholic beverages are not sold outside official concessions, and outside alcohol is generally not permitted.
When is the Marina del Rey 4th of July fireworks show, and where’s the best spot?
The fireworks typically run on July 4 from about 9:00 PM to 9:20 PM (beaches.lacounty.gov). They are launched from a barge in the harbor’s main channel. Burton Chace Park is one of the prime viewing locations in Marina del Rey for the show, thanks to its open waterfront lawn. Coming early (afternoon) is wise to secure parking and a spot. Note that special parking rates and road closures apply this day (beaches.lacounty.gov) (beaches.lacounty.gov).
Are reservations needed for anything at Chace Park?
For everyday park use or free events, no reservation is needed – just show up. If you want to rent the park’s community rooms or shelters for a private event, those are managed by LA County Beaches & Harbors and would require booking and an application. Public programs like classes or camps at the park may have sign-ups via the county website. But for the free concerts, movie nights, and festivals described above, simply attending is enough – no reservation required (visitmdr.com) (beaches.lacounty.gov).
How do I get to Burton Chace Park by public transportation?
Several bus lines serve Marina del Rey. Los Angeles Metro Bus #3 runs along Pacific Avenue/Venice and stops near Fiji Way (short bus ride from Chace Park). Culver CityBus Line 33 also has stops on Mindanao Way near State St. The free Beach Shuttle (weekends/holidays in summer) stops at key Marina locations. The easiest way is often via the free Marina del Rey WaterBus ($1 fare) which stops at Chace Park’s docks during summer (chacepark.com). Otherwise, the LAX FlyAway bus goes to the nearby Culver City Station (combine with a short shuttle or rideshare from there). Plan your route and times at metro.net or local transit apps before you leave.
Is there anything to avoid doing at the park?
During events, avoid bringing prohibited items: no large tents, drones, or professional camera rigs. Don’t reserve space with objects (only your blankets/chairs). Be mindful that alcohol and glass containers aren’t allowed from outside. Fires are only allowed in built-in grills. Also, avoid parking illegally (ticketing is strict) and littering. Finally, plan for evening traffic — have a safe ride arrangement rather than driving during peak post-event hours.