best playgrounds in des moines

Best Playgrounds in Des Moines: A Guide for Fun-Filled Family Outings

Des Moines boasts a fantastic selection of playgrounds, catering to diverse ages and interests. From innovative, inclusive spaces to classic, neighborhood favorites, families in Des Moines have many options for active outdoor fun. Several parks stand out for their unique features, accessibility, and overall quality.

Exploring Des Moines’ Top-Rated Playgrounds

Principal Park Playground

Located adjacent to the home of the Iowa Cubs, Principal Park Playground is a popular choice, especially for baseball-loving families. This playground features a large, shaded structure with multiple slides, climbing features, and swings. The rubberized safety surfacing ensures a soft landing for little adventurers. Its proximity to Principal Park allows for a double-dose of fun – baseball and playground adventures.

Ashby Park

Ashby Park offers a newly renovated playground, featuring vibrant colors and innovative play equipment. This park has an inclusive design, incorporating ramps and accessible features to accommodate children of all abilities. The playground has separate areas for different age groups, allowing toddlers and older children to play safely in age-appropriate zones. It’s a great destination for a family outing, promoting active play and inclusivity.

Union Park

Union Park is home to the famous “Rocket Slide,” a landmark in Des Moines. Beyond this iconic feature, Union Park boasts a large playground with swings, climbing structures, and plenty of space to run around. The park’s vast green spaces provide ample room for picnics and outdoor games. According to Wikipedia, playgrounds provide a crucial space for physical activity and social interaction for children, and Union Park exemplifies this benefit.

Ewing Park

Ewing Park is a treasure trove of outdoor activities. While it’s not solely a playground, it features a fantastic play area with a nature-inspired theme. This playground focuses on incorporating natural elements like logs, rocks, and wooden structures. Ewing Park’s playground encourages imaginative play and exploration within a natural setting. In addition to the playground, Ewing Park offers hiking trails and scenic views, making it a comprehensive outdoor destination.

Walker Johnston Park

Located in Johnston, but easily accessible from Des Moines, Walker Johnston Park boasts a universally accessible playground. Its design ensures children of all abilities can play together. With features like ramps, sensory panels, and adaptive swings, Walker Johnston Park promotes inclusivity and encourages social interaction. It’s a wonderful example of how playgrounds can be designed to be welcoming and accessible to everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a playground “inclusive”?

An inclusive playground is designed to be accessible and usable by children of all abilities. This includes features like ramps, adaptive swings, sensory panels, and accessible surfacing.

Are there any playgrounds in Des Moines with shade?

Yes, Principal Park Playground and many other playgrounds offer shaded areas to protect children from the sun.

What are some age-appropriate playgrounds for toddlers in Des Moines?

Ashby Park and other community parks often have designated areas specifically designed for toddlers, featuring smaller structures and softer surfaces.

How can I find out if a playground has restrooms?

Most large parks in Des Moines, such as Union Park and Ewing Park, have restroom facilities available for visitors. Check the Des Moines Parks and Recreation website for specific details on each park.

What are the benefits of outdoor play for children?

Outdoor play promotes physical activity, social interaction, cognitive development, and a connection with nature. Playgrounds provide a safe and engaging environment for children to reap these benefits.

Summary

Des Moines offers a variety of excellent playgrounds that cater to diverse needs and preferences. From the iconic Rocket Slide at Union Park to the inclusive design of Walker Johnston Park, families can find a playground that suits their children’s ages, abilities, and interests. By exploring these top-rated playgrounds, families can create memorable outdoor experiences and foster a love for active play.