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Playgrounds allow kids to explore, develop physical skills, interact with other children, and test their inner limits. They spark children’s imaginations while boosting their social skills and cognitive abilities.
Going to the neighborhood or school playground with commercial playground equipment is always a good idea. But if you’re traveling, finding a new playground during a trip can be thrilling to kids. For parents, a playground pitstop during a long day can also help reset the energy and allow the kids to run around and just have fun. If you’re visiting a major U.S. city this year, be sure to stop at one of these best playgrounds.
1. Play Garden at Maggie Daley Park in Chicago
If bigger is better, then Chi-town has nailed it! The Play Garden is a three-acre play area for children aged five to 12 that features a series of interconnected spaces. Kids will enjoy winding their way through the Enchanted Forest, navigating to the Slide Crater, getting splashed on in The Watering Hole, and more. The Play Garden is inspired by Alice in Wonderland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, so you know it will entertain young ones’ bodies and minds for the afternoon.
2. Jungle Gym at the Nashville Zoo in Nashville, Tennessee
The only thing better than a full day at the zoo is a day at the zoo AND a trip to the playground. At the Nashville Zoo, kids can do just that by playing in the Jungle Gym located within the zoo itself. The 66,000-square-foot playground features various slides, running areas, and a giant snake tunnel. A relatively new section within the Jungle Gym is Promise Park, a space dedicated to kids with disabilities to play alongside other children. Modified swings, climbing structures, and zip lines were designed with accessibility in mind.
3. Georgetown Day School Playground in Washington D.C.
Located at Georgetown Day School, this wooden playground is open to everyone after school hours. Kids who are up for a challenge will love the various climbing structures and rope bridges. A small climbing wall is also available for those daring enough to climb to the peak. Since the park is located at a school, check the school website for any planned activities or closures.
4. Chastain Park Playground in Atlanta
This playground saw a recent upgrade thanks to a $2.8 million redevelopment plan. The 40,000-square-foot playground features giant swings, bumpy slides, a massive tree house, and a climbing wall. Other interactive areas include a music space complete with drums and chimes and an outdoor piano. Nearby shade is a welcome respite for watchful parents who are looking to get out of the heat.
5. Skyline Park at Easton Park in Austin, Texas
Easton Park, a planned community in southeast Austin, Texas is home to Skyline Park — a massive playground with splash pads, ziplines, swings, and more. The three-story climbing structure is great for children to take in the beautiful view of the city. For hot summer days, be sure to bring a towel so kids can get soaked in Splash Eddy, a circular water area complete with fountains and sprayers. Parents take note: This playground includes areas to sit, restrooms, and water fountains.
6. Downtown Container Park in Las Vegas
Las Vegas may be the most playful city for adults, but the city has some great play areas for children as well including the playground at Downtown Container Park. With nods to Swiss Family Robinson, the tall treehouse-like structure is appropriate for both kids and adults to climb. The play area is in the middle of a shopping area, which is great for families with teenagers who would like to shop on their own.
7. Hertz Playground McLaren Park in San Francisco
Located in Visitacion Valley, this park originally opened in 1965 but received a $3.38 million overhaul during the summer of 2023. Today’s park includes two separate play areas — one suitable for older children and one appropriate for youngsters. This allows families with children of various ages to have fun in one play area. Older kids can climb on a tower or play some steel drums while little kids can enjoy swings and slides.
8. Central Park Forest Park in Cincinnati
For kids who are obsessed with jumping off your living room couch, take them to this ninja course in Cincinnati. Tall climbers, parallel bars, zip lines, robe swings, and steps will entertain kids for hours on end. Brightly colored, this playground is a great option for kids who need to burn off some energy.
9. County Farm Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan
This nature and farm-themed play space outside of Detroit is a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the city. County Farm Park looks and feels like a backyard barnyard. A red barn is nestled under overarching flowers and a windmill. Nearby walking trails are great for the entire family to enjoy.
10. Martin’s Park Seaport in Boston
What kid wouldn’t want to climb inside a lifesize pirate ship? Located along the Boston waterfront, Martin’s Park includes swings, slides, and a splash pad for the warmer months. Perfect for all ages, make sure to visit this must-play spot the next time you’re in Boston.