Favorite Parks for Toddlers

Spring is blooming! A reader asked us a great question: “What local parks would you recommend for a toddler?” Here are our readers’ suggestions for great parks for toddlers. Let us know what you think in the comments!

Centennial Park

5751 Bunker Hill Road, New Berlin, on Springfield’s far west side, bordered by Bunker Hill Road on the south and Lenhart Road on the east. Centennial Park offers fun playground equipment, a covered picnic area, and a fun hill to hike. springfieldparks.org/parks/centennial/

Washington Park

1501 South Grand West, Springfield The play area in this park cannot be rivaled. When you go, bring bread for the geese and a stroller to take a walk around the botanical gardens. springfieldparks.org/parks/washington/

Southwind Park

4965 South Second Street, Springfield. Southwind offers rubber flooring underneath the playground equipment, which make this park a lot safer for those toddling around. The fun musical instrument section for kids to play on will entertain all ages. On hot days, bring a towel and bathing suit for the splash pad. springfieldparks.org/parks/southwind

Rochester Community Park

90 Wild Rose Lane, Rochester. Let your toddler’s imagination soar at the park. The playground looks like an old castle. Be prepared to follow closely because there are quite a bit of blind spots, so this park keeps you on your toes. However, it is a fun change to a more traditional park. rochesteril.org

Other Reader comments for other area parks:

Centennial Park

“We like centennial!! So much to do!! And my kids’ favorite thing to do is climb the big hill!”

~Ashley B.

“Conquering the hill, larger playground, skate park (for older kids)” ~Melissa S.

Lincoln Park

“My kids love the water fountains, hiking trails and playground area. Multiple kid activities held throughout the year at the Nelson Center with ice skating in the winter. ~Anne T.

New Salem State Park

“There are lots of photo ops and learning opportunities (i.e. how to make a wooden chair) available. Outdoors, so you can take in nature. Inside restrooms are available. Also have theater and other planned activities throughout the year.” ~Anne T.

Rotary Park

“I like Rotary Park because there isn’t a lot of traffic where the playground is. The playground is nice without being too spread out for us with several children!” ~ Carol K.

“Small and cozy, close proximity to west end shopping complexes.” ~Melissa S.

Southwind Park

“This is a great park to go to when it has recently rained as the “floor” under the playground is pretty dry and there isn’t any mud.” ~Jen F.

“Large playground and play fountain!” ~Melissa S.

Washington Park

“My kids love to feed the ducks, watch the water fountains and walk on the trails. They also love the playground area and sandbox.” ~Anne T.

“The playground is really big and the trails are fun to walk, run or bike on.” ~Jen F.

“Shaded playground, varied terrain, several types of things to do (feed ducks, take a scenic walk, play, listen to the carillon bells, traverse through the garden, etc.) ~Melissa S.