It seems like most of the communities in Northeast Ohio have playgrounds that are now open and the grandkids are yearning to make up lost time, playing and visiting with their friends. We have a few favorites I’d like to share that we will definitely try to get to this summer.
Still being cautious, I would pack disinfectant hand wipes or lotion and make sure hands are cleaned several times during the visit. I would also bring masks, as some people wear them even while outdoors. If your grandchild has a medical condition, such as asthma, you may require a mask to be worn. All of these playgrounds have picnic tables set up for snacks or lunch, so pack whatever you want to eat and drink, along with a plastic picnic table covering. I also pack a first-aid kit, which includes antiseptic cream and Band Aids. Nice, clean restrooms are also available, either within the park or within a close walking distance.
Liberty Park is located in Independence. They updated this playground last year with the addition of different playground equipment and have a new, separate play area for 3-5 year olds. There are many different types of climbing equipment and slides. Swings for all ages, plus some handicapped swings and a springy dinosaur are included. Walking around the ball parks and small pond with a fountain makes for a nice little hike. Adjacent to the park is Independence’s Safety Town. The kids love to run from mini building to building and up and down the town’s sidewalks and streets. The traffic light works for them to learn to cross the street. We will sometimes bring along their scooters or bikes to ride around this cute little town.
Another favorite playground is the Castle Town Playground in Strongsville. This park is located right past the center of town. It is a huge play area that looks like a castle made of wood, where the kids can run up and down the different levels and play hide-and-seek in the many different hiding spots. They can pretend to be knights, kings or queens. It also has a lot of normal playset things, but all are incorporated into the castle. There’s a lot of shade here, so you can find a cool place to sit and watch. There is also an excellent sub shop across the street, where we always try to purchase a sandwich for our picnic.
The last but not the least favorite is Preston’s H.O.P.E. in Beachwood. It is the largest fully accessible playground in Northeast Ohio. The park is 60,000 square feet and is located behind the Mandel JCC. This place is so much fun! There are a lot of sensory boards and specially built swings and teeter totters. The large sand box includes excavating toys for digging. The kids always like to explore the two levels of very realistic make-believe houses, which all are connected by a raised walkway.
Wherever you decide to take your grandkids to a playground this summer, enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and smiles on your grandchildren’s faces as they play!
