Don’t miss our Area Parks Directory 
When those perfect days come, head outdoors for eating lunch outdoors (with or without the kids). Or, grab the kids after work, pack a picnic or enjoy take-out, and head to a NEW park for a classic evening outside.
The photo here is from Southern View Park, Springfield.
We are so fortunate to have so many options in the greater Springfield Area.
Access the full directory here and read below for some of our reader favorites! Venture somewhere new and make memories!
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.
“Centennial Park has good climbing stuff…. but not a lot of big kids are there- which is nice for toddlers.” ~Buffy L.
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.
“They have 2 different playgrounds, the splash pad and a place for kites to fly or let run freely instead of being stuck at one playground area.” ~Jessica A.
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.
“Washington Park is great if you are in the middle of potty training because it has a ‘normal’ bathroom.” ~Buffy L.
“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.
“We’re spoiled by living relatively close to Washington Park where my daughter revels in playing in the sandbox and socializing with the other kids who congregate there. It has toddler friendly equipment to play on and more advanced things she can challenge herself trying to climb.” ~Rachel O.
