Kate Sessions Park: have we forgotten her?
We were all disappointed when the alcohol ban was placed on Kate Sessions Park last year. There was something special about having a Red Trolley beer while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean and Mission Bay. Kate Sessions was the first place I would take visitors to Pacific Beach. They’d always complain about the hike up the hill and I’d constantly be saying, “We’re almost there, really.” Once at the park, I’d lay a blanket down and they would sigh that this was how they’d pictured San Diego. The uphill walk was quickly forgotten in the awe of the sparkling view. I’m realizing that I rarely go to Kate Sessions anymore — or even remember to take guests. Kate Sessions is still an amazing park, but I let the mystique vanish with the alcohol. I think maybe I had blamed Kate Sessions Park when the alcohol ban was enforced, as if the park itself had made the decision. I regret not visiting Kate Sessions anymore. The park still has ample room for our dogs to play, great spots for lounging in the shade and perfect grass for throwing the football around. The views are still extraordinary, too — perhaps the best in San Diego — and that is saying quite a bit. Kate Sessions Park needs to reclaim its perch among the great weekend spots. Sure, we all miss having a cold beer as we lay in the San Diego summer sun, but we need to get over it. A Coke is just as good — almost. What we need to do is enjoy the park and all it has to offer and stop for a drink later. Kate O. Sessions Memorial Park is located at Soledad Road and Loring Street.