Spring is literally around the corner, and with these spring-like temperatures who doesn’t want to open their windows and take the kids to play outside? There are a plethora of outside play areas around Central Ohio – take advantage of them! Not only do they have great equipment for kids to climb on, jump on, and swing on, but they are free. My husband and I have pondered over the “swingset” issue. To buy or not to buy. New or used. What system. bleh. Luckily, as we dredge through the decision-making we can take the kids to a clean park with equipment that more than likely meets all the safety standards, is fun fun fun, and wears the kids out so they sleep well.
We have a few favorites that tickle our fancy. We meet up with our mommies group buddies or go as a family just about any time of the day. In addition to the fact that outside play areas offer some great slides, tire swings and climbing options, they are also a great place for your kids…and you….to meet new friends. I got some of the best advice from playground mommies about preschool options, and even have met a few mommies that take their children to the same pediatric office. I get a giggle every time I think of my newest coolest playground friend. We see the same pediatrician and we both think he’s cute. ha! ha! ha!
Anyhoo….here are some outside play areas that we frequent:
Linworth Park: Located just off Linworth Road and 161 in the Worthington area. Great for littles and bigs. Tennis courts, basketball court, covered and not covered picnic area, small tables for littles, swings, and great jungle gyms with slides. Be sure to SPF it up at this park in the summer because there is little shade.
Selby Park: Located just off of Selby and High in Beechwold area. Great for littles and biggers. Two jungle gyms, swings and lots of shade. Great for that quick trip.
Whetstone Park of Roses: Located in Clintonville area. The Whetstone Rec Center is right beside the Whetstone Library and has a new playground. There is also a wonderful playground area down in the park by the pond. This park has sand – have your kids bring buckets and shovels!
All Children’s Park: Located within the Worthington Community Center off of Wilson-Bridge Road. Great for littles and has a little cottage house for pretend play.
Highbanks Park: Located just off 23N near Powell Road. It has various play areas and is a great place to hike or picnic. Bring balls and other outside games because there are huge grassy areas where the kids can run and play.
Fancyburg Park: Located in the Upper Arlington area. This park has terrific playground equipment and paths to walk on, tennis courts, and shady areas to eat a snack.
Find an outside play area or park in your neck of the woods:
Follow this link for a list of the metro parks in Central Ohio. This site offers a complete overview of the metro parks of Central Ohio. These parks offer some great programs such as spring discoveries for preschoolers, a wildflower walk, family theme days that include learning about reptiles and amphibians.
Follow this link for a list of parks from the Columbus Department of Recreation and Parks. This site offers lists of what the parks offer such as basketball courts, playgrounds, picnicing, etc.
