With warmer weather right around the corner, it’s time to get out and enjoy some fresh air. Thankfully, there are plenty of options for families with children of all ages and abilities to choose from — and places where parents can keep those runners contained. Which means not only will the children be having fun, but parents and caregivers can relax a little and have fun, too.
If you are looking for autism-friendly and inclusive playgrounds in Indianapolis, look no further — here is a list for you!
Fully- Or Mostly- Fenced Playgrounds
Shawn Grove Park
1401 North Alabama St., Indianapolis
With two playgrounds and a pavilion, this park is great for children of all ages. The toddler playground is for children ages 5 and under and is completely fenced in. They also have a playground for the older kids without a fence.
Play Area at Clay Terrace
14390 Clay Terrace Blvd., Carmel
This small, fenced-in playground is perfect for those who need to take a break from shopping, or run a little after enjoying a meal at one of the Clay Terrace restaurants. Parents can sit and breathe in the fresh air while their child enjoys some play time in this enclosed space.
Westermeier Commons Park
920 Central Park Dr. West, Carmel
Spanning over 25,000 square feet, this park has plenty to offer guests of all ages and abilities — including two specific areas for children ages 2-5 and 5-12. The Splash Pad is a separately contained area with features that spin and rotate, and it’s a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.
Accessible and Inclusive Playgrounds in Indianapolis
“Everybody’s Playground” at River Heritage Park
11813 River Rd., Carmel
Located within the 40-acre River Heritage Park, you will find this playground with not only swings, slides and plenty to climb on, but also handicap-accessible play features for your little one.
Freedom Trail Park
500 Deer Walk Trace, Westfield
This park was designed specifically with autistic children in mind, offering an inclusive playground and sensory garden, spinning and twirl features, handicap accessible swings and wide ramp systems allowing for wheelchair access.
Brooks School Park
11780 Brooks School Rd., Fishers
This inclusive playground offers two separate play areas for children ages 2-5 and 5-12. Inside the park you will also find a sensory play area with drums, chimes, bells, xylophones, activity boards and a rubberized surface.
Independence Park
2100 S. Morgantown Rd., Greenwood
Independence Park features a large, all-accessible playground with rubberized surface, a wheelchair-accessible trail and basketball court, and a sensory area designed with autistic children in mind, featuring 20 different elements.
Old City Park
304 S Meridian St., Greenwood
The newly reimagined Old City Park has multiple activities on the playground for people of all abilities. The foosball table is wheelchair accessible, and the rubberized surface and spaced-apart features allow for easy mobility.
For more information on parks in and around Indianapolis, check out indyschild.com/indy-playgrounds.
