The little-known playground in Upper Chevy Chase makes a great backdrop for Star Wars fans
DC’s beautiful monuments, iconic buildings, and National Parks make the perfect backdrop for family photos. But if you want to capture your kids in their natural environment, the playground is your best bet. The DC area boasts some of the most Insta-worthy playgrounds in the country, some even winning awards and worldwide attention. From an oversized pirate ship aground by the Potomac River to Wizard of Oz-themed play structures (complete with the Wizard’s castle) here are some of the most extraordinary, seriously fun, and downright inventive playgrounds around town that are worth featuring on your Instagram feed.
This playground has it all: a toddler play area for the littles, a massive climb-on structure that is possibly the largest piece of playground equipment in DC (!), cabin-like structures, a water spray pad, and more. There are mature trees surrounding this play area and the toddler area is completely shaded (perfect for these dog days of summer!). If your little wants to cool off without getting sprayed, there is also a water table.
Sometimes kids just need to run around and play and zipline…in the middle of a metropolitan city! When that happens, take them to this private school playground. Open to the public when the Beauvoir School is closed (typically after 6 pm weekdays and on weekends), this playground was designed with the idea that outdoor play is as imperative to children’s development as anything else. You’ll find formations and spaces for kids of all ages, including swings, climbing structures, wooden bridges, and even a super fun zipline.
Approximately a 30 min. trip from downtown DC, this park is worth the drive. Once you arrive (note: there is ample parking), follow the yellow brick road (follow, follow, follow, follow) to a magical, Wizard of Oz-themed playground. Slide down Dorothy's ruby slippers and climb up Emerald City's castle. Due to the Insta-worthy play structures, this no-admission park can get crowded. If the park feels too peopley, head to Watkins Playground #2, a less coveted play space that has ample room to run around. You will also find an antique carousel and a miniature train within this park.
Editor's Note: The miniature train is closed for restoration during the 2023 season.
Fairlington Playground
Your eagle-eyed kids will spot this newly renovated playground blocks away. What they’re spying is the top of Fairlington Park’s cool (and tall) climbing structure. Not for the faint of heart the ropes course-style equipment comes with a floating bridge and an enclosed, curvy slide. The rest of the playground comes with a sandbox for littles, hard seat swings, and artificial turf throughout. Bonus: Water fountains are on-site and restrooms are in the adjacent community center.
3308 S. Stafford St., Arlington, VA
photo: Cabin John Regional Park
Cabin John Regional Park Want to see what Montgomery County’s best and biggest park looks like? Then head over to Cabin John Regional Park. Geared for all ages this park offers loads of the usual slides and climbing structures but the “reel” (put intended) photo opp here is the ride-on miniature train. Hiking trails and the Locust Grove Nature Center make for an amazing sensory-filled afternoon. Nearby fields and tennis courts entice the adults and the whole family can whiz around on skates at the indoor ice rink.
Anacostia Park Playground Just on the heels of celebrating their centennial, Anacostia Park is the place to be and you’ll definitely want to check out their playground! Along the peaceful banks of the Anacostia River, little pirates can meander and find a massive pirate ship! This themed-playground is probably the greatest enticement at this park with three separate play areas. Kids can climb aboard the sails and mast—and then slide on out! Anacostia Park also has tennis and basketball courts, as well as a roller skate park with free skate rentals.
The organic structures in this park celebrate the Fibonacci Sequence (a series of numbers starting with zero where each number is the sum of the two that precede it. The ratio of numbers in this series best represents the Golden Ratio. This playground is so hip Mental Floss named it one of the top 16 coolest play structures in the world!
Looking for an exciting new way to stay with the kids? It doesn’t get any better than these treehouse rentals in New England
When it comes to epic family vacations, New England offers plenty of options for families. There are rentals with epic pools and compounds where you and your besties can stay. But if we’re honest, nothing beats sleeping among the trees. And when it comes to treehouse rentals New England has more than its fair share of storybook stays. Your kids’ imaginations will soar when they wake up high above it all in the trees, listening to morning birds and bubbling streams.
Moose Meadow Lodge Treehouse | Waterbury, VT
Stay in a two story log cabin in the trees when you rent this lakefront treehouse. Steeped in rustic cabin detail, it features a living and dining area on the first floor and a master bedroom upstairs. Kids will love the spiral staircase that wraps around an actual tree running through the house. Outside, Adirondack chairs give you a great lake view. Sit peacefully or cast a line into the trout-filled waters. The perk of this New England treehouse? It’s part of a bed and breakfast, so you’ll get a lovely meal each morning that you don’t have to prepare.
Settle into the heart of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, not too far from New Hampshire’s White Mountains, this is an outdoor retreat that offers more than just a cozy treehouse for families to stay in. While we know you’ll love the master bedroom, lofted sleeping space for the kids, elevated deck, and kitchen with a farmhouse sink. Full of vintage and reclaimed materials, lots of love went into constructing this house. But beyond the stay it’s a jumping off point for all kinds of outdoor activities. Whether you want to mountain bike, hike, or ski, this treehouse rental in New England is the spot to stay when you do.
A hand-crafted Hobbit door welcomes visitors to this luxurious two-story treehouse in New Hampshire. And it’s the attention to details that makes this treehouse rental in New England one for the books. Radiant heat helps warm cold toes in the colder months and the wrap-around deck gives you that 360 degree forest view that’s hard to beat. When bedtime hits, you can the kids can retire to separate rooms for the night. It even has AC for the hot summer months and a fireplace to keep you warm in the winter. A great travel destination any time of the year.
Call the grandparents because this New England treehouse rental is a parents-only retreat. There’s lots to love about this charming rental among the trees–it’s situated by a stream, has a hammock where you can relax and read, and its simple pleasures means you can slow down a bit and enjoy time together. Cook dinner on the propane camp grill, and climb in the loft to settle in for a good night’s sleep (finally!). Settle in at the treehouse during your stay or check out the nearby activities like hiking, skiing, or tasting at local breweries and distilleries.
If we didn’t know better, we’d think this charming treehouse rental in New England was the home of the Seven Dwarfs. Perched high in the trees, accessible by a wooden bridge, this rustic rental is full of charm. Designed by B'fer Roth, host of The Treehouse Guys, it incorporates actual trees into its living spaces. Inside the treehouse you’ll find beds to sleep seven, a fireplace, and kitchen, even toys for the kids. Just keep in mind the toilet is composting and many of the beds are in a loft that’s not walled off, so it’s best to sleep up there with your crew. Beyond the treehouse, families can hike, explore, and even swim in the nearby creek if it isn’t too cold yet. And if you want to head into town, Waterbury is only a 15 minute drive.
Modern Treehouse with Water Views | Georgetown, ME
Perched at the top of a 21-acre wood, you can’t beat the lake views from this modern tree dwelling. An autumn stay is filled with all the season’s color and a winter visit should definitely include snow shoeing and a dip in the hot tub. In the main structure you’ll find two bedrooms, and a kitchen. Then wander over the rope bridge to the second structure where you’ll find a quiet living space to sit and ponder. Town isn’t too far away and it’s where families can explore quintessentially Maine beaches at Reid State Park or cruise to a lighthouse.
This treehouse rental on Bluebird Farm in Connecticut may only be 90 minutes from the city, but you’ll feel worlds away when you get there. The comfy space sleeps four and includes modern conveniences like a kitchenette, WiFi, and a fireplace. Beyond these comforts of home, kids will love seeing the farm animals. In the morning or evening they can get a guided farm animal tour so they can see them up close. During the day you can relax on the property or explore the area. Wineries, breweries, and antique shops take center stage here. In the evening, curl up around the firepit and watch the stars.
Good to Know: There is no guarantee of running water from November 15 to April 15 due to seasonal freezing. In other words, you may not have running water for dishes and showers if you book during this time.
If you want to strip away all the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest, this is the treehouse for your family. Part of a larger footprint of tiny homes available on Littlefield Pond, it’s got everything you need to spend time in nature with the kids. Two bedrooms, both with queen beds, a fully stocked kitchen, even a hot tub out on the deck. Spend your days exploring the area, or simply head out the front door and down the spiral staircase to SUP or kayak on the lake or even fish for your dinner.
Insider Tip: If you can’t book this one, try the Sky Frame or Cliff House. Both are owned by the same group of families and are situated around the lake.
You’ll double your fun at this two treehouse compound in western Vermont. A fantastic treehouse rental New England-style, it reeks of authenticity, and the owner warns that gnomes and elves might stop by for tea. Made with reclaimed materials, this rustic retreat is accessed by rickety stairs and bridge. It offers families an escape from city life that’s not always easy to find. Spread out in the three bedrooms, and plan to cook your meals in the open-air kitchen pavilion. Retire for the day around the firepit with s’mores and a sunset.
Good to Know: This rental is only available from June through October. Dogs are not allowed.
The mild clime of the PNW means taking the kids on a nearby Seattle waterfall hike is pretty much a year-round activity
With all the rain we’ve had this spring, now is a great time to go on a waterfall hike with the kids, muddy trails and all. Sure, you can find gurgling fountains and even a few hidden waterfalls in Seattle’s parks and gardens. But there’s something special about hearing the sound of rushing water before spotting a flowing waterfall through thick forest trees. So the next time the sun decides to make an appearance (hey, we can dream can’t we?), take to the trails in search of cascading waterfalls that aren’t too far from Seattle with your crew. Here’s where to find them.
Distance: 1.5 miles round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Leashed dogs are welcome. Online: snoqualmiefalls.com
When it comes to Seattle-area waterfall hikes, Snoqualmie tops the list. Each year over a million visitors are beckoned by the majestic sights and sounds of Snoqualmie Falls and for good reason. A mesmerizing 1000 cubic-feet of water per second pounds into the Snoqualmie River from a 268-foot drop, while cool mists and rainbows float up from its splashes. Mini-hikers will love the interpretive plaques describing the wildlife, flora and fauna of the region, as well as discovering there are two power plant facilities located at the falls. To enjoy this waterfall hike, start from the upper parking lot and follow the path that winds from the railed observation platform, behind the gift shop and then down a moderately steep grade to the lower observation platform. If it has been a while since you’ve visited, a new lower parking lot is available for those who want to get that up-climb done and out-of-the-way first.
Fees: The upper and power parking lots are free, but the main parking area is fee parking. Good to Know: After your trek, take a historic trip through the town of Snoqualmie—this is where you will find tasty eats, a candy shop and a train museum to boot. Find It: Interstate 90 east to Highway 18 west
Cherry Creek Falls
Kylie Kirkland
Distance: 5 miles round-trip Good For: Hearty, adventurous preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Leashed dogs are welcome. Online: wta.org
A bit of a longer hike, this one should be on everyone's gotta try list, and not just because it ends at an inviting pool. Although the mileage is a bit longer for little legs, there isn't too much overall gain, so hearty kids can make the trek, although it may take some time. Cross bridges and find magical hollowed out trees as you make your way along Cherry Creek. When you get to the river crossing (bring your walking stick and wear waterproof shoes) You'll come out at the top of the falls, but you can follow the trail down and wade in (just be careful) to cool off. You earned it!
Fees: Free Good to Know: Access to these falls includes a short .5-mile hike through an easement within private property. For this reason it's extra important to stay on the path, keep dogs on a leash and pack out all your trash when visiting these falls. Find It: Off of Mountain View Road in Duvall
Distance: 2.5 miles round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Leashed dogs are allowed Online: wta.org
This stunning beauty is less than 45 minutes away from Seattle in Ollalie State Park and is an easy family waterfall hike you will want to revisit every year. Kids will love foraging the winding path of salmonberry bushes then trekking the moss-covered conifer forest along Snoqualmie River’s south fork. Enjoy peek-a-boo views of the upper falls before traversing a bridge and then descending stairs to the magical lower falls viewpoint.
Fees: A Discover Pass is required and can be purchased at the trailhead. Find It: Exit 38 off Interstate 90, near North Bend
Franklin Falls
Carolyn Woodhouse
Distance: 2 miles round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Dogs on leashes are welcome Online: wta.org
This short, easy waterfall hike has such a beautiful payoff at the end even your doubting hike-critic will be raving about it all summer. Make your way across mini bridges and up wooden stairs while taking in breathtaking views of Denny Creek along the way. You will want to hold your little one’s hand as you maneuver the last rocky 100 feet to the base of the falls where you can sit on the rocks and enjoy a snack under the cool misting spray. Plan to find the Denny Creek natural waterslides when you're in the area. May as well make a day of it!
Fees: A Northwest Forest Pass is required Good to Know: This is a popular hike, so be sure to arrive early to find parking and beat the crowds. Find It: East on Interstate 90, near North Bend
Distance: 3 miles round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Dogs on leashes are allowed Online: wta.org
You won’t be disappointed rising early to trek this gentle hike with three waterfalls and breathtaking river views. Kids will love pounding the trail through the majestic old-growth forest with wildflowers, salmonberries and ferns of many varieties. The highlight of the trail is the spectacular Feature Show waterfall with its twin ribbons of water-flow veiling down a mossy rock wall into Boulder River. By 1.5 miles, you will reach the last waterfall and a good place to turn around if you’ve got minis in tow. Otherwise, the trail continues another three miles and ends at a popular picnic spot on the river.
Fees: Free parking Good to Know: The forest service road to the trail has some potholes, but are manageable for most vehicles. Find It: Interstate 5 to State Route 530, near Arlington
Bridal Veil Falls
Kylie Kirkland
Distance: 4 miles round-trip Good For: Ambitions, sure-footed kids ready to maneuver over rocky streams and charge up steeper inclines. Woof!: Dogs on leashes are permitted Online: wta.org
Get set to get wet! This Seattle waterfall hike trail starts on an old service road before forking onto a rocky footpath through a mossy forest of Maples and Red Alderwood trees. Kids will love hopping over gushing streams while catching glimpses of Mount Index through the forest canopy. When you’ve reached the falls take little ones on the easier path to the left for a gorgeous view of Bridal Veil Creek plunging down a 100-foot rock wall. Heading right takes you up a steep series of stairs for a close-up and refreshing look at the misting waterfall.
Fees: A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking Good to Know: Be sure to wear sturdy, waterproof shoes and pack an extra pair of socks for stream crossing and rocky paths. Also, use extreme caution on the wet rocks. Find It: Interstate 5 north to Highway 2. Approximately 21 miles east of Monroe.
Distance: 4.8 miles round-trip Good For: Energetic preschoolers and older kids with patient parents who are prepared to take breaks or turn around early if needed. Woof!: Dogs on leashes are allowed Online: wta.org
This popular, well maintained path along the Wallace River has all the bells and whistles for a fantastic family outing. Mile markers guide the journey as you wander through an old-growth coniferous forest with benches and natural resting spots along the way, perfect for quick snack breaks. Be sure to take a right at the junction onto Woody Trail where you will begin to ascend the long stretch of switchbacks to the first scenic look of the lower falls. After a lunch break at the picnic shelter, journey the last half-mile to middle falls for a stunning view of the majestic five-tier waterfall, and a good place to turn around.
Fees: A Discover Pass is required for parking Find It: Interstate 5 to Highway 2 near Gold Bar
If a family trip to Mount Rainier is on your summer bucket list then be sure to venture the dreamy, paved portion of Skyline Trail from Paradise Lodge to Myrtle Falls. Discover breathtaking views of The Mountain flanked by subalpine meadows of Mountain Daisies, Arrowleaf Groundsel and Magenta Paintbrush. Spend some time gazing at the falls from the bridge overpass and then return to the lodge the way you came. If you’re planning to continue the 6-mile loop to Panorama Point you’ll want your hiking boots, water, sunblock and lunch, as the rest of the trail is a real climb.
Fees: Mount Rainier National Park entrance fee (fourth graders and their families visit Free) Find It: Interstate 5 south to SR 512, SR 7 and SR 706 to the Nisqually entrance
Distance: 2-7 miles round-trip Good For: Intrepid kids ready to cross a river on a sturdy, but narrow log foot bridge Woof!: No pets allowed Online: nps.gov/mora/learn/nature/waterfalls
This easy hike is part of the 93-mile Wonderland Trail and begins at the Cougar Rock Campground, two miles east of Longmire. A flat trail that wanders through river rock and old-growth forest following an old water pipeline up to the waterfall lookout. Be sure to hold your mini-adventure seeker’s hand while crossing the Nisqually River on a log footbridge. The two falls are within steps of each other and the entire journey is approximately 2.2 miles round-trip.
Options: If you’re trekking with experienced nature explorers, the hike can be extended by starting at Longmire and heading east on the Wonderland Trail for a fairly flat 7.2 mile round-trip journey. During the added miles, enjoy views of the Nisqually River as you weave in an out of a forest of Douglas Fir and Cedar trees. Alternatively, you can also take the Narada Falls trailhead that junctions with the Wonderland trail and hike down to the other two falls. Keep in mind that the hike back up to complete the 6-mile round-trip venture will be challenging.
Fees: Mount Rainier National Park entrance fee (fourth graders and their families visit Free) Find It: Interstate 5 south to SR 512, SR 7 and SR 706 to the Nisqually entrance
Distance: 3 miles round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: No pets allowed Online: nps.gov/mora/learn/nature/waterfalls
Located on the southeast side of Mount Rainier, the breathtakingly clean and clear, glacial Ohanapecosh River spills down a series of steps before plunging 40 feet into a large blue pool. This well-groomed, relatively flat waterfall hike begins at the Ohanapecosh Campground and travels along the river under a canopy of moss-draped hemlocks. Kids that easily bore will love that this trail loops, making the return trip to the car a novel experience.
Fees: Mount Rainier National Park entrance fee (fourth graders and their families visit Free) Find It: From Enumclaw, east on State Route 410 and south on State Route 123 to the Ohanapecosh Campground.
Distance: 5.5 miles round-trip Good For: Sure-footed kids capable of handling slippery and muddy conditions Woof!: Leashed dogs are welcome Online: nps.gov/mora/learn/nature/waterfalls
Ready for a challenge? Navigating the trails to Little Mashel Falls is more of a scavenger hunt than a hike, but once you finally reach your destination you’ll find the payoff is much grander than its name describes. Little Mashel River falls along the foothills of Mount Rainier through Pack Forest, University of Washington’s School of Environmental and Forest Sciences. The river cascades down three major drops with the 125-foot Little Mashel Falls triumphing as the largest. To reach this stunning beauty head from the Pack Forest administration building and make a left onto RD 1000 (Lathrop Drive). Follow the gravel forest road for about 1.8 miles before taking a left onto RD 1070. Look for a rock with the word “Falls” and an arrow painted in blue on it. Here’s where it gets tricky because there’s more than one trail to follow, but if you make a hairpin turn toward the grassy path near a pond you’re on the right track. Take a right at the junction where a tree is marked with yellow diamonds, then turn left at the trail signed for Middle Falls. Trail conditions can be very muddy, so be sure to hike in sturdy boots or shoes, and bring a change of clothes for the car ride home.
Fees: Free parking Find It: Interstate 5 south to SR 512 and SR 7. Follow to the University of Washington Pack Forest entrance on the left.
Distance: 2 miles round-trip Good For:Intrepid kiddos ready to cross a stream on a sturdy, but narrow log foot-bridge Woof!: No pets allowed Online: nps.gov/mora/learn/nature/waterfalls
A portion of Martha Falls can be seen from Stevens Canyon Road in Mount Rainier National Park, but to get a closer look at this 670-foot behemoth you’ll have to ramble along a small, gentile portion of the Wonderland Trail. From a pull-out located less than a mile past The Bench (a hairpin turn on Stevens Canyon Road), walk back along the road to the marker for the Wonderland Trail. Descend along the old growth, tree-lined path to the base of the waterfall at Unicorn Creek. A log foot-bridge will take you across the creek for the best view.
Fees: Mount Rainier National Park Entrance Fee (fourth graders and their families visit Free) Good to Know: Stevens Canyon Road closes during snowy conditions. Be sure to check Mount Rainier’s road report before heading out. Find It: Interstate 5 south to SR 512, SR 7 and SR 706 to the Nisqually entrance. Follow past Longmire towards Paradise. Take a right onto Stevens Canyon Road and continue about a half-mile past The Bench (a sharp switchback in the road–you can’t miss it!) Park on shoulder then hike back up to the trailhead.
Distance: 1.6 miles round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Pets are not allowed Online: wta.org
If you are planning to venture to the Olympic Peninsula this summer be sure and make your way to the magnificent two-tiered Murhut Falls in the Duckabush Recreation Area. This short walking path will likely give you the tranquility and solitude you have been seeking as the trail is relatively unknown. Starting from an old logging road, the hike gently climbs through the dimly lit understory of Douglas Firs before traveling a steeper ascent to the lookout. Be sure to keep an eye on little ones while making the final climb, as the trail narrows with a steep drop-off to one side. If you are lucky enough to make the journey in late spring, kiddos will be delighted by bursts of eye-catching pink rhododendrons adorning the path.
Distance: 2 miles round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Pets are not allowed Online: wta.org
Marymere Falls Trail, located within eye-shot of Lake Crescent, begins as a flat path starting from Storm King Ranger Station. As you wander through the canopy of humongous conifers and maple trees be sure to snap a few shots next to one of these giants to gain perspective on how large they really are. After crossing a bridge over Barnes Creek, the path will start to climb before reaching the first viewing point. Take a moment to soak up the spray of this 90-foot plummeting beauty from across the moss walled pool. If the kids still have energy to burn, climb further up the stairs to the right for the upper perspective of the falls.
Distance: 1.6 round-trip Good For: Wee ones in carriers, tenacious toddlers, energetic preschoolers and older kids Woof!: Pets are not allowed Online: wta.org
This beautiful waterfall flows from the Sol Duc River then splits into four channels before plummeting into a narrow canyon. The short hike starts at the end of Sol Duc Road and travels an easy, wide path through towering old growth trees with sounds of trickling streams to add to the beauty. Kids will enjoy making their way past an old cabin and over simple wooden bridges along the way before finding the falls. Stop there and turn around or continue along Lover's Loop for more magical finds.
Fees: The Olympic National Park entrance fee Good to Know: Add an extra 4 miles to the hike by starting at the Lovers Lane Trail at Sol Duc Hot Springs. Find It: Following 101 west, 30 miles from Port Angeles
Take to the trees and go on a zip lining adventure near Atlanta the next time your little daredevils need a new challenge
It makes sense that Atlanta—known as the city in the trees—is home to so many ziplines. Flying from treetop to treetop is the perfect way to shake the heat during our summer months, avoid the crowds, and pump the adrenaline. And, many places offer scaled-down versions for the littlest adventurers. So bring your sense of adventure and get flying!
Chattahoochee Nature Center has partnered with American Adventure Park Systems and Historic Banning Mills to bring you Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures. Choose to do the Aerial Adventure Course, Zipline Canopy Tour, or both to see nature from a different perspective and spend a day in the trees.
Screaming Eagle is open weekends until Memorial Day. Reserve online or call 770-992-2055 x280.
9135 Willeo Road Roswell, GA 30075 770-992-2055 ext. 280 Online:cncziplines.com
With two locations in Atlanta—Dunwoody and Gwinnett—Treetop Quest will challenge you physically and mentally as you maneuver from tree to tree through obstacles and zip-lines. Once you’re equipped, we’ll teach you how to operate your equipment and you’ll be able to swing through each course as many times as you want for 2.5 hours. Both locations offers adventures for ages 4 & up, plus a harness-free obstacle course area.
Dunwoody Location at Brook Run Park 2341 Peeler Rd. Dunwoody, GA 30338 770-365-0356
Gwinnett Location at The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center 2020 Clean Water Dr. Buford, GA 30519 404-277-6113
Experience the Zoo from the perspective of our planet’s amazing animal tree-dwellers. Zig, zag, climb, walk, and balance as you navigate a series of rope ladders, bridges, nets and tightrope-style foot lines on a two-level challenge. Participants will be safely secured and tethered with full-body harness and lanyard to an overhead tracking system.
800 Cherokee Ave. SE Atlanta, GA 30315 404-624-9453 Online: zooatlanta.org
Historic Banning Mills
S. Massey
Experience the largest zip line adventure park resort in the world—verified by Guinness World Records—that offers 135 ziplines that would take you 12 hours to complete if you tried to do the whole enchilada at once. For guests who want to stay over, you can spend the night in tree houses & other lodging, relax at the day spa, go horseback riding, and grab dinner.
Climb to new heights on one of the nation’s largest family adventure courses, where no two hikes are the same. Choose your path and challenge yourself while secured to the patented overhead safety system. While not a zip line, this aerial course allows you to explore via harness and cables suspended wooden bridges and other obstacles. Leap from one wooden slat to another. Balance on a single rope high above the ground, or climb to the top on vertical net bridges.
1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA 30083 800-401-2407 Online: stonemountainpark.com
Looking for a new adventure? Westmoreland Park Nature Play Area may just be what the sherpa ordered. Scale massive logs, cross wooden bridges and scramble over real boulders at this newer play space that opened at the end of last year in the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood, inviting kids to make up their own games and races using things found in nature. Here are six reasons why your family should go check it out now.
1. You won’t find any monkey bars.
Yep, you read that right. This is Stumptown’s first permanent nature-based play area. (Excuse us while we wipe away a few tears of pride.) Instead of typical twisty slides and tire swings, your little ones can climb on boulders, traverse logs, dig in sand and use cut pine branches to make forts and caves. (Okay, there is one slide, but it’s pretty simple.) It’s all part of the Portland Parks and Recreation’s Nature Play Initiative, encouraging imaginative kids’ play, based on interactions with natural objects.
2. You won’t miss the traditional playground experience. And trust us, neither will your kids.
Here’s the deal. Kids like to play. And they don’t need to be told how to do it. Go to any park with a jungle gym and we guarantee you’ll still see kids engineering some wacky game you’ve never heard of before. (“Lava Monster,” anyone?) Westmoreland’s Park makes kids’ imagination — not a fancypants slide — the main focus. Its unofficial motto is, “Here’s nature. Go wild.”
3. You won’t see any parents on smartphones.
On two recent trips, we saw dozens of parents — and zero phone usage. The reason? Nearly every parent was playing with their little ones, be it chasing after them, helping them dig a moat in the sand, or dragging logs to help construct a fort. Ironically, the fort was to keep parents out. This park doesn’t just entice kids to play, but parents, too.
photo: Courtesy of Stephanie Booth
4. “Playing” has never been so important.
Think of this as the “Waldorf School” of parks. Kids are learning a love of nature, feeding their imaginations, solving problems, assessing risks, and best of all, figuring out how to entertain themselves. And (gasp!) all without a screen.
5. You should bring a picnic — and your own water.
File this park away for a perfect picnic destination, thanks to plenty of tables and a shady grove of giant sequoia trees. Carry in your own water, though; at least for now. They’re shut down for the winter, like all of the other parks. They’ll be back on somewhere around mid-to-late March. True, the dull roar of traffic from nearby 99 can be a tad distracting, but at least fresh scent of pine and mulch overpower any exhaust.
6. No dogs in the play area. Dogs like to, sniff, dig and (ahem) mark their territory, so they’re not allowed in the new play area. We get it. They can, however, be walked on the little bridges and trails just outside the fenced-in nature play area. And if your furry family member needs to sit and stay for a while, at least there are plenty of ducks in the restored Crystal Springs Creek to keep him entertained.
Have you visited this park yet? Let us know in the Comments below!
Chicago is a city with an abundance of green space and cool parks, but Maggie Daley takes the cake. It sits just outside Millennium Park, just steps from the lakeshore, with gorgeous city views. With an ice skating “ribbon,” larger-than-life climbing structures, a climbing wall and a play garden, this is worth a stop-and-play. Yep, even in the cold. Read on for the scoop.
The Lay of the Land
The 20-acre park that hugs the downtown skyline was a much-buzzed-about addition, named in honor of the late philanthropist and city icon, Maggie Daley. The former First Lady of Chicago co-created the After School Matters program, a nonprofit that offers teens stimulating out-of-school activities. The park carries on her legacy of helping kids grow and thrive, and is free to all.
photo: Chicago Park District
A Play Ship, Mega Slide & More
The southeast section of the park is anchored by a three-acre play garden, the first of its kind in Chicago. Designed in the spirit of “Alice in Wonderland” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” it’s meant to spark imagination and get kids moving in a landscape that’s a bit surreal and fanciful. There are challenges for all levels, from toddlers up to grade schoolers.
Some activities you can share in with the kids are climbing aboard a life-sized play ship via red ropes, scurrying to the top of a wooden lookout tower, zipping down a three-level tube slide, or walking across a wooden bridge and waving to onlookers below. There’s so much to do and—best of all—there’s plenty of space because up to 600 children can comfortably play in the garden at one time.
The Skating Ribbon Maggie Daley Park is intended to be a destination for any season, warm or cold, and its skating feature is proof. The J.B. and M.K. Pritzker Family Skating Ribbon provides 27,500 square feet of ice surface, which is nearly twice the size of a traditional skating rink. In contrast to your typical oval-shaped sheet of ice, the ribbon is more like a meandering path. It can hold up to 700 skaters at a time.
In the summertime, they’ll say bye-bye to ice and the turf will be for roller skaters and scooters, and will also hold gallery exhibitions and special events.
photo: Chicago Park District
The Climbing Wall
The Malkin-Sacks Rock Climbing Wall will entice young adventure seekers. Its highest point is 40 feet and the entire wall is divided into different sections for beginners and advanced climbers, accommodating bouldering, lead-harnessed and top rope climbing. Between 25 and 100 climbers will be able to use the wall at a time.
There is also an “Enchanted Forest” with a mirrored maze and kaleidoscope, a harbor-like play apparatus for toddlers, and a bevy of slides including spiral, wide and rail. Event spaces will are available, as well. Imagine staking out a spot at a picnic grove or having a birthday party on a sweeping lawn.
Ever dream of enjoying a postcard perfect urban park outing in the heart of L.A. with the brood? Well, now you can! Echo Park Lake still has the feel of late nineteenth century leisure, when ladies strolled in full skirts and men were sure to bring their top hats when stepping out in public. But the recent re-do takes that vibe and mixes it up with a dose of contemporary, diverse, and vibrant Los Angeles life to create one super special (and unique) place. From lotus blossoms to pedal boats, playgrounds to tasty snacks, this 150 year old park has it all. ($45 million still buys a little something in LA!) So spend the day at Echo Park Lake – your kids, and your memories, will thank you for it.
Pedal the Boats The lake dominates the park, and the pedal boats will dominate your kids brains until you rent one, so this is clearly your first stop.Get gentle exercise and work on your family’s team-building skills while riding the pedal boats on the freshly refilled lake. Some daredevils might want to get as close as possible to the geyser mist…if you prefer to stay (mostly) dry, just glide and enjoy the sunshine, along with the view of Downtown L.A. shimmering in the distance. And even though your kids might not care about the difference, remember, it’s pedal, not paddle, boats we’re riding here. (Cost: $5 kids, $10 adults per hour. Ten-dollar two-seater boat rentals for Echo Park residents on Wednesdays. No babies allowed.) Canoe and gondola rides are available, too. Our tip: try to nab the blingy red sparkly two-seater. Everything is better with sparkles.
Walk the Paths Next, take a civilized stroll (read: chase your kids) around the revitalized iconic lotus flowers on the park’s decomposed granite paths surrounded by native plants. The historic wooden bridge is closed to the public, but the modern design of the span at the north side of the lake provides a lovely juxtaposition of the old and the new.
Grab a Bite High quality food in L.A. public parks can be hard to find, so don’t miss the offerings at Square One’s outpost at the Boathouse. Everyone will find something that suits his or her tastes, whether it’s just a nibble, or a heartier meal of farm-to-table dishes from this favorite East Hollywood daytime eatery. The tot set is likely to go for organic hot dogs on whole wheat buns (add local Brassica and Brine sauerkraut for a buck extra), a patty melt, and potato-stuffed taquitos served with fresh guac and salsa for $4. There’s also housemade potato chips and jars of soft cookies, as well as lemonade for the kids, and thankfully, Intelligentsia coffee for the adults. Should anyone scream for ice cream, plenty of park vendors pushing carts full of frozen treats can help with that.
Learn About the Environment The staunch dedication of local leaders and community members who treasure this resource meant that the lake’s signature lotuses would deflintely come back. And flourish they have. (The next Lotus Festival should be even more awesome than year’s past.) This rehabilitated body of water boasts approximately 400 new lotus plants, and the project ensured that the animals which had come to call Echo Park home over the course of many decades would thrive. Stop to read the signage about how the park functions as a wetland habitat, and the various animal species that are part of this ecosystem. Chances are you’ll have some close encounters with the various ducks and birds that go about their daily routines in plain sight of park goers.
Hit the Playground If all these activities haven’t been enough and the kiddos still need to get more ya-yas out, head to the new playground at the northern end of the park for spinning, sliding and climbing. Lastly, don’t forget to create your own postcard moment by having the kids pose for a photo with the sleek “Lady of the Lake” Art Deco figure by sculptor Ada May Sharpless. (Read more about the fascinating history of the statue here.)
Parking and Potties:
On busy weekend days, nabbing a (free) parking space on the street might require circling the perimeter of the park a bit. (There’s not a parking lot.) But someone is always bound to leave! Two public restroom facilities are located on the premises. Learn More Online:
Echo Park at City of L.A. Dept. of Recreation and Parks: laparks.org Echo Park Lake Rehabilitation Project: echoparklake.org Echo Park Historical Society: ephsnews.blogspot.com
-Jessica Ritz
What’s your favorite neighborhood park in the city? Let us know in the comments below.
