Do you have a case of spring fever? We certainly do! So, pack the lunches, load the cooler and jump in the car to explore these great playgrounds sure to make your kids smile.
Here are ten Indiana playgrounds that are worth the drive:
RIGHT HERE IN THE CIRCLE CITY
Tarkington Park
Location: 45 W 40th St, Indianapolis, IN 46208
Why it’s worth the visit:  This modern and recently overhauled playspace is located in the heart of the city. While it’s equipped with the standard playground fare such as swings and slides, it also offers more innovative features such as synthetic grass and oversized instruments, making this playground fun for children of all ages. The aesthetic will entice visitors, and the well-designed play area will keep them coming back.
Don’t miss: The giant climbing orb, chimes, rock climbing wall and splash pad in the summer.
Holliday ParkÂ
Location:Â Â 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Why it’s worth the visit: Located just north of the city, this park boasts a massive playground that has fun options for kids of all ages. The scenic backdrop of the playground includes newly renovated ruins and fountains. From slides to swings to rock walls and tunnels, this playground has it all.
Don’t miss: The 20-foot slide tower, spider web climbing apparatus, short walk to the ruins and nature center.
JUST A SHORT DRIVE
Treetop Outpost at Conner Prairie
Location:Â 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038
Why it’s worth the visit: Opening in 2016, this four-story treehouse provides hours of entertainment. Tucked away on the expansive campus of the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, this non-traditional playground allows children to enjoy nature as they climb and discover the structure’s many features and play options. Visitors can go on a nature walk, dig in the archaeological ruins or simply scale the impressive treehouse. Admission to the museum is required for access to the playground.
Don’t miss: The suspension bridge, the hidden reading room, and the musical instruments.
City Center ParkÂ
Location:Â 415 Lincoln St, Greenwood, IN 46142
Why it’s worth the visit: Located on the city’s southside, City Center Park boasts a playground and splash pad with brightly colored benches that dot the landscape and overlook the play areas zoned for different ages. The equipment offers different entry points for children of different abilities. Four types of swings and multiple slides are sure to keep kids busy.
Don’t miss: The music station, tandem swings, rock wall and little free library.
Roy G. Holland Memorial Park
Location: One Park Drive, Fishers, IN  46038
Why it’s worth the visit: Don’t miss: In addition to its massive play structures, Roy G. Holland Memorial Park has something everyone to enjoy: Soccer, baseball and softball fields, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, wooded areas, picnic areas and an active community building perfect for special occasions. Just walk the loop trail to catch the action or to meet up with friends and neighbors out on a beautiful day.
Quaker Park in Westfield
Location:Â 7501 Dartown Rd., Westfield
Why it’s worth the visit: Quaker Park got a huge facelift in spring 2017. The playground was updated with lots of equipment that is safe and fun for all ages and abilities. Quaker Park is the only park in Westfield that has a splash pad, so it’s a cool place to hit up when it’s hot outside. The splash pad has several misters pumping water that will get you wet, and lots of space to run around.The ground in the playground area is covered with safety turf, which stays nice and cool even when the sun is beating down on it. It’s also super soft to walk on — and land on if you happen to fall while playing.
Don’t miss: Large rope climbing dome, separate area for babies and toddlers, splash pad within the playground.
Westermeier Commons Playground & Splash Pad
Location:Â Central Park Boardwalk, Carmel, IN 46032
Why it’s worth the drive: Spanning 25,000 square feet this playground is a child’s dream come true. Right away children will be intrigued by the science fiction inspired appearance of West Commons, and parents will be impressed with the safety features such as the rubber safety surfacing, age-appropriate zoned play and the hill which creates a natural barrier to slow adventurous little ones. There are opportunities to swing, slide, explore and splash at this playground which was specifically designed to be inclusive and accessible to children of all abilities. After Memorial Day, kids can enjoy the many water features in the splash park.
Don’t miss: Tunnels and coves throughout the playground, two 32-foot tall enclosed towers, and the unique climbing walls.
Williams Park
Location:Â Â 940 S Locust Ln, Brownsburg, IN 46112
Why it’s worth the drive: Williams Park is known for its Blast-Off Playground, a large, newly painted wooden play structure. This idea for this themed playground was conceived by the children of Brownsburg Community School Corporation, and their vision was brought to life with the assistance of more than 2,500 volunteers who worked to assemble the structure.
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A LITTLE FARTHER DOWN THE ROAD
Taylor’s Dream Boundless PlaygroundÂ
Location: The playground is located off of N. River Road, inside Kreager Park. Click here for directions.
Approximate drive time: 2 hours
Why it’s worth the drive: Inclusive playgrounds designed for kids with varying abilities can be found across the country, but this playground is the first of its kind in the state of Indiana. Adopted by local CVS and Pepsi employees after receiving significant financial contributions from each organization, Taylor’s Dream Boundless Playground is a vital part of the community. The playground is divided into pods based on age range and offers multiple opportunities for solitary and group play.
Don’t miss: The fossilized T-Rex skeleton, the Aero Glider (which accommodates wheelchairs), splash pad and state-of-the-art NEOS 360 outdoor electronic play system.
Freedom Field
Location:Â Parkside Dr, Columbus, IN 47203
Approximate drive time: 1 hour
Why it’s worth the drive: Designed for children with special needs in mind, this playground was imagined and made possible by two mothers who wished to fill a void for inclusive play spaces in their city. Covering 25,000 square feet, this playground offers fun and excitement for all kids.
Don’t miss: The roller slide, web tower, Braille play panels and wheelchair glider.
While your local playground may be a family favorite, why not plan a mini adventure to a new destination? With so many great options available, surprise the kids and make a day of exploring what’s offered in and around our city.
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