Take the Kids: 6 new, renovated, reopened playgrounds to visit
Editor's note: This post is updated to include even more playgrounds that have reopened or opened this summer.
We've had a spate of new and renovated playgrounds open up across the region in recent days, so I thought I'd highlight some new places to play.
Panthers Play 60 playground and challenge course
This impressive new playspace includes a traditional playground and challenge course with all kinds of obstacles. Find it at Barwell Road Park. It's definitely worth a drive.
RDU's Observation Park
After a very long closure because of COVID, Raleigh-Durham International Airport's Observation Park reopened on Aug. 2.
Chavis Park
Chavis Park's playground and sprayground opened earlier this month, and it's absolutely spectacular. Go for the tree house-like climbing structure. Bring a towel and bathing suit for the sprayground. (And be ready to ride the carousel once it reopens after repairs in mid-August.) This is a destination park.
Sassafras All Children's Playground
Plenty of fans of this playground at Laurel Hills Park in north Raleigh have spent some frustrated months over the last several years as it closed for repairs to its rubber surfacing. But those problems should be in the past. The park reopened this month after a project to replace the surfacing. It's time to play.
Nature Playground at Prairie Ridge Ecostation
This isn't new or really renovated, though there are some COVID-19-related changes. But the news is that it is open. This natural outdoor space is a great place for young kids to explore and get messy. There also are some very family-friendly trails.
Blue Jay Point County Park
This fantastic new playground at the Wake County park opened back in the spring and offers lots of ways for kids to climb, run and play. With the trails and other activities, you could easily spend most of a day here.
