Exploring the World One Slide at a Time: Amazing Playgrounds from Around the Globe

It’s a fact: kids love playgrounds! They allow children to dream big, coming up with imaginative games on the fly. Playgrounds also offer physical activity and act as an outlet for them to burn some energy while also engaging with other children. The local playground or the school park is always a great idea, but a park in a new destination can be a thrilling experience for families. Here’s a roundup of some of the most amazing playgrounds from around the globe.

1. Everyone is Welcome in Greer, South Carolina

The Benson Automotive Kid’s Planet playground and park are well-designed to be inclusive. The swings include adaptations for differently abled children, and the zipline also has a seat for special needs kids. A misting area is easily accessible to those in wheelchairs. A music station and trampoline area are also engaging, interactive ways for kids to learn and play.

For parents, shaded benches and picnic areas allow families to engage with one another. Also, every play area is fenced in, giving parents peace of mind as their kids run around and interact with others.

2. Take a Shopping Break to Play in Copenhagen

Families visiting Copenhagen looking for a play break should take a pit stop at Hauser Plads in the old town. Near the busy shopping street Købmagergade, this playground features two swings, climbing poles, and metal domes. And since it’s Copenhagen, the design is fun but artful and sophisticated too. It’s made from a blend of real and artificial grass as well as rubber-covered granite ideal for any potential tumbles and falls.

The surrounding buildings date back to the 1830s, the years of Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. The blend of history and modern play works well in Denmark’s vibrant capital.

3. Splish Splash in Phoenix

With temperatures soaring well into the 100s during the summer, Phoenix parks require water zones to stay cool. The Mansel Carter Oasis Park in Queen Creek includes a shipwreck-themed splash area for kids to enjoy year-round. The playground equipment has climbing surfaces, swings, and slides that are appropriate for children of all ages. A sand dig zone is great for younger toddlers while older kids will appreciate the nearby basketball courts and skate plaza.

4. A Retro Take in Tokyo

Tokyo visitors who are looking for an out-of-the-box day trip should make the trek to the Godzilla Slide at Kurihama Flower World. The larger-than-life Godzilla stands nearly 30 feet tall and greets guests in a retro depiction of the widely-known prehistoric dinosaurs. The park includes a Godzilla slide, a roller slide, and a train for children to ride around the park.

The large park is covered in flowers, so big that you’ll want to take the train to see the entire area. Strollers can fit on the train, which makes it easy for parents with younger kids.

5. A Designed-by-Kids Playground in Christchurch, New Zealand

Named after a local children’s book author, the Margaret Mahy playground is the largest in the southern hemisphere! In addition to its size, this playground was part of the government’s plan to encourage families to visit this area following earthquakes in February 2011. To concept the play area, the designers asked over 6,000 children to share their thoughts on what would make for the most exceptional playground. As a result, the Margaret Mahy does not disappoint!

The park features a curvy slide, a stainless steel slide meant for multiple kids, and an ocean-inspired sandbox. The colorful park with contrasting shapes stimulates children as they wind their way through different tunnels and climbing structures. This landmark destination is truly a thrill for children of all ages.

6. An Artful Take in Toronto

One would expect that a playground near an art gallery would be beautiful and the Grange Park in Toronto does not disappoint! This playground opened in 2017 in celebration of Canada’s 150th birthday. Funded by the Art Gallery of Ontario, the City of Toronto, and other donors, this park is as unique to look at as it is to play in.

The various structures are brightly colored, attracting little ones to climb up on the structures. An oversized spilled paint can and crumpled paper are man features as are a charcoal pencil tower and a squeezed pain tube. This artistic playful area has rightly become a distinctive landmark for Toronto-based families and visitors.

7. A Wooden Masterpiece in Bradford, Vermont

If you find yourself in Vermont during a family vacation, making a trip to Bradford is well worth the extra effort. Elizabeth’s Park is an entirely wood play area complete with a tire obstacle course, slides, and swings. Visitors often comment that the playground is massive, which means it can occupy children for hours on end! Oh and for the parents, there are plenty of park benches as well as a shaded grill and picnic area.

8. A Joyful Scene in Athens

While Greece may be known for its ancient ruins, the playground at Macedonia Square in Athens, Greece is anything but a disarray. This carefully crafted playground features a main tower with three slides, climbing areas, and a bridge.

A separate swing area fits many children, meaning there is less crowding and time spent waiting in line! Seesaws and swinghorses are also tempting options for children. Two larger-than-life turtles stand nearby to watch kids run to and from the different play areas. The design thoughtfully invites everyone, including those in wheelchairs, to play.