I’m always on the lookout for great new playgrounds. If we pack a lunch/snack, my kids can happily spend a few hours at a playground. And, with temps nearing 70 last weekend, it got me thinking about spring and all of our favorite haunts.
I’ve covered quite a few playgrounds on this blog (links below), but wanted to feature a few today that you may not be aware of.
(Note: these parks are located in the East/Central part of the tristate; but stay tuned for some representatives from other areas of our beautiful city!)
1. Blue Ash Nature Park
Everyone knows that Blue Ash has a state-of-the-art rec center, complete with waterpark-worthy slides and an amazing indoor fitness complex. However, there’s also an amazing playground located between the Rec Center and Police Department (two, actually!).
At the Blue Ash Nature Park, you’ll find a tire swing, two fantastical playsets for older kids, an area with fun dinosaur structures for younger kids, a sandbox, hiking trails, huge row of swings and lots of picnic structures. Much of the playground is covered by big, mature trees, offering lots of shade.
Bonus: It’s right by the fire station, so your kids can oogle the big trucks!
2. Dogwood Park
Photo credit: Village of Mariemont
We just recently discovered this hidden gem (I say ‘hidden’ although I’m sure Mariemont residents all love this park!). Dogwood Park is actually the site of Mariemont’s famous Carillon tower. Covering over 20 acres, Dogwood Park contains ball fields, nature trails, swimming pool, a bird and wildlife sanctuary and an awesome playground.
The playground got a recent face lift, and it’s a fun mix of rustic and modern. Comprised of natural, earthy tans and greens, Dogwood Park has lots of structures to climb, jump off of and play on.
Bonus: It’s just a short walk to Starbucks! (Or Graeter’s, if that’s your preferred vice.)
3. Swaim Park
Julian calls this the “fish park,” because we often see people fishing at Swaim. This park has it all; in addition to the aforementioned pond, there are tennis courts, baseball diamonds, sand volleyball, a .39 mile walking loop, “tot lot” and a school-age playground.
The playground is impressive, featuring several, separate structures for different ages/stages. Tunnels, slides, swings, a spinning roundabout, monkey bars and a seesaw make Swaim truly special.
Bonus: There’s a sand area with a sand digger. Julian loved to bring trucks and play here for as long as I’ll let him.
For more info on my favorite local parks, check out:
- Cottell Park
- Ault Park Playround
- Eden Park Playground
- Land of Make Believe/Lunken Playfield
- Mt. Airy Forest/Playground
What are your favorite playgrounds? Leave your choices in the comments below — I’ll include your faves in future roundups! And, don’t forgot to follow us on Instagram @cincyparent, and tag us (#cincykidlife) the next time you’re at a local playground!
Spring is on its way!
