Activities for Kids

The Best Playgrounds on the North Shore

Whether you live "up north" or are looking for a day trip, here are 9 options for sliding, swinging, climbing and running like the dickens!

By Kelly Aiglon May 26, 2015

Looking for a new playground stomping ground? Go north! Chicago’s North Shore has lots of options for sliding, swinging, climbing and running like the dickens. Whether you live “up north” or are looking for a day trip, flip through our album to discover the ultimate playgrounds. You’ll go bananas at everything from mega splash pads to all-natural wood gems.

Sunset Woods – Highland Park

This is a wooded park with history and intrigue. Until 1968 an Indian Trail tree stood at its heart. Native Americans used these types of trees to mark trails used for traveling and trading between various tribes. Today, the spirit of exploration still prevails here. The new two-level Petrified Park is a dinosaur lover's dream, with a play structure that looks like a prehistoric creature, plus Jurassic Sand Diggers. Interpretive signage describes the history and species of dinosaurs. There's also an Adventure Tree House with an accessible boardwalk, play panel system, rope bridge, net tunnels and more.

1801 Sunset Rd.
Highland Park
847-681-2189
Online: pdhp.org