Chris D.
Yelp
Duboce Park (hereinafter "DP" or "Duboce") is flat out one of the best uses of open space recreational space I've ever seen.
While the prevailing sentiment is that Duboce is ultimately a dog park I'd like to point out that this is very misleading. Indeed, Duboce is both a gateway to, and the heart of, or rather the fulcrum of, the surrounding Lower Haight, DTN, and Buena Vista Heights neighborhoods.
Yes, there are a lot of dogs. In fact, almost at any given time, you'll spot (pun intended) a half a dozen dogs running around as if they're in doggie heaven. Additionally, there are even dog planned events that use DP specifically because of this reputation...so in some ways, on the superficial level, it earns its notoriety.
So on the dog tip: there are some chains that cordon off the dog area but they are really only suggestions as ANY dog can slip through. Moreover, the chains only block off 3 sides...if your dog runs away a lot..this isn't the place for you. There are dog height water bowls and numerous plastic bag dispensers. There will numerous other dogs there too so the dog will have ample social time. Lastly, a good assortment of places to sit a watch your dog mingle and play. Overall dog park quality is very high.
As a neighborhood center: Many neighborhoods should look to DP as an inspiration on how to draw a community together. On many weekends of the year Duboce is the sight of tag sales or little fairs as well as the aforementioned dog events. It also has the N stop, as well as 1 block from a J stop, so it is readily accessible via public transit. Lastly, there are community billboards that are updated frequently...
As something other than a dog park: On a sunny day...there are actually a fair amount more humans than dogs. In fact, these numbers have grown since the renovation and the separation of areas. If one has a chance, or if one has a little monster (a child), one should visit the very very good playground...it is always busy with crazy little kids and exhausted adults. There are basketball courts...and the Harvey Milk community recreation center...it is so much more than a dog park.
My last comment...I usually take the N home...and when it starts up the little hill at Sanchez/Duboce the passengers on the car inevitably watch all the dog mirth in the park and smile. There..they get to view the unadulterated joy dogs, and animals in general, bring to us...I always feel so lucky that this is my stop. No matter how hard my day was..at 6pm...I can watch the dogs for 5 min and have it all melt away and walk the rest of the way home with a smile on my face.
Now that is a great park.