Now that spring has arrived and the weather is a bit better, most of us have found ourselves outside.  If you have kids, I'm sure you've been out to play at least once this year.

Where do you like to play?  Do you have a favorite playground or trail that beckons?  Or are you stuck in a rut and don't know where to find the best playground experience?

Here are my favorites.  Please add yours to the list.  Other parents will thank you for it!

1. Frog Hollow Park, on the campus of Metro Health Hospital's new Wyoming location.  This park was designed to provide accessibility for all.  Bright colors, fun equipment, and easy access make this a favorite for the kids and I.

2. Millenium Park
It would be a crime to leave out this beautiful new park.  Where else can you go to the beach on a hot day, just a few minutes out of town, or visit a pretty cool splash pad?  There is a small entrance fee for the water activities, but if you just want to enjoy the trails or the nice playgrounds, you can do that for free. This is a great place to get that "out of the city" feel without having to pay for a lot of gas or spend a long time in the car to get there.

3. Ada Township Park (pictured above)
Take a drive to Ada Park, but don't forget your fishing pole.  There is a pond for fishing for kids under 12.  You might also want to bring a picnic basket because there are so many pretty spots to toss a blanket.  The wooded park also has short nature trails, a butterfly garden, and the requisite playground equipment as well.
 
A grkids.com parent also suggested the GR Ford Airport Viewing Area situated on Kraft Avenue north of 52nd Street.  While you're there, turn on your radio (AM 1650) and listen to air traffic controllers and pilots communicate as they safely land the planes.

The parks that you suggest may make it to the Places to Play Page.  Please take a moment and "vote" for the best parks in Greater Grand Rapids.  Thanks!

 


Comments

Lori Snyder

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:42:05

Cascade Park is a great park, regardless of age. There are three play structures for varying ages, and they are close enough to view all children at the same time. There is a small covered area with 2 picnic tables to enjoy lunch with the kids. A big hill to run down, plenty of open space to fly a kite, throw a ball or frisbee, etc. Also, there is a long paved walking path to enjoy.

 

Amanda Travis

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:43:31

I live near Lamar Park in Wyoming and the Splash pad in the summer is great, there are also several great play areas. Downside: stay away from grassy areas, we affectionately call this park Goose Poop Park! We also like Hagar Park in Jenison, there is a map of the US on the ground for kids to run around and learn geography.

 

Susan

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:59:42

We live in Lowell, and our favorite is Fallasburg Park just North of Lowell. Lots of pretty scenery, plenty of tables, some historical stuff, and a great play area!

 



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