According King County Parks and Recreation Department, the county has more than 150 parks that account for approximately 25,000 acres of non-occupied space. While the majority of that space is for natural areas and trails outside of the city, a significant and growing portion of the parks in the metro area have dedicated areas for children and toddlers. King County children's parks range from themed areas to specialized neighborhood play-spaces.
City Parks
The Powell Barnett Park provides 4.4 acres of child-friendly space. The toddler section has a range of toddler play structures that include a firetruck, ship and house, and more traditional slides and sand pit. The park has benches for parents and picnic-styled tables within close proximity to the play area. The park is open from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m.
State Parks
Saint Edward State Park is a 316-acre park lying between the shores of Lake Washington and the city of Kenmore. In addition to providing a venue to hike, boat, fish and swim, the park has a dedicated area for toddlers that includes a sand pit, toys for riding and large airplane-shaped play structure. The park is open from 8 a.m. until dusk.
Family Focused Parks
The Gene Coulon Memorial State Park lies on 57 acres along the southeast border of Lake Washington just opposite Mercer Island. The park provides a family-friendly environment by prohibiting bikes, rollerblades, skateboards, animals and alcohol. The park includes a toddler area with wooden houses and playing structures with bridges and tunnels.
Neighborhood Parks
Deane's Children's Park is a modern example of the classic neighborhood park. Built and renovated with donations from individuals, families and businesses in the community, the park is dedicated to children between the ages of 3 and 9. The park's toddler area includes slides, play structures and climbing areas. The park facilities also include a covered picnic area.
Themed Parks
Kirkwood's Woodlands Park has one of the only themed toddler sections in the area. The section's castle-themed play area includes a fenced toddler play area with castle-like wooden play structures, a life-size chess board with movable chess pieces, tubular slides and spring toys. The park is open from dawn until dusk.
Member Comments