After a surprise snow last weekend (get it together, Ohio!), we are on track for a gorgeous spring weekend.
We can’t think of anything better than spending an afternoon with the fam at a playground. But not just any, run-of-the-mill, sad-slide-and-swingset playground. This weekend calls for something special.
So we did some research (thanks, Yelp!), and came up with this list of 5, worth-the-drive, Ohio playgrounds. Depending on where you live, these parks may be a quick jaunt, or a fun (little) road trip! With deluxe, state-of-the-art play structures and lots of space to run (or fly a kite!), these Ohio playgrounds are sure to bring out the inner child in everyone.
Goebel Park Playground
Covington, KY
This brand-new playground features slides, swings, climbing structures and gorgeous views of the Cincinnati skyline. This park is best-known for its goats, which roam the hills behind the Carillon tower. (The goats are still in winter hibernation, but will be back on May 7 following the first annual Running of the Goats!)
Related Post: The Goats of Goebel Park
Millstone Creek Park
Westerville, OH
Located just outside of Columbus, this playground is worth the drive. A mix of natural, traditional and futuristic elements make this playground truly one-of-a-kind. One side contains a colorful playground built on a rubberized surface. There are interactive, electronic games, musical instruments and tons of spinning, slide-able and climbable structures. The other side is inspired by nature, with plants, slides, a stream, water pump and sandy area all mixed together.
Smale Riverfront Park
Downtown Cincinnati
Located downtown, this park has it all: spraygrounds, playgrounds, larger-than-life games and musical instruments and even a flying pig. With lots of greenspace to enjoy a picnic, access to riverfront sidewalks and the Purple People Bridge and an indoor carousel, you can easily make a day out of this Cincinnati Park.
Read more about Smale Riverfront Park here
Washington Park Playground
Cincinnati, OH
What can we say — we adore this playground. Its features include a play castle, climbing wall, sandbox, dual slides, a canal boat in a stream and musical instruments – all creatively integrated into a safe and imaginative play environment for children of all ages. The play area is programmed with free activities for all families to enjoy — like craft-filled Saturdays and family movie nights in the summer.
Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark
Dayton, OH
This Dayton MetroPark has a Children’s Garden unrivaled by any other, featuring lots of sensory play areas, different animal habitats and even a learning garden where kids can get hands-on experience. We especially love the musical garden (which features large, outdoor musical instruments) and the sandbox (because, what kid doesn’t love a sandbox?)
Spring is here to stay — so pack a picnic and have an adventure this weekend!
