Portland has plenty of parks and trails, but if you want to really act like a kid again, here are the best playgrounds to hit. Water features, updated playground equipment, and a lively environment makes these 12 parks some of the best around for channeling your inner child.
1. Peninsula Park
An incredible rose garden, interactive splash pad, and large playground are not all this park has. It is also the home to a community center and pool, tennis courts, and plenty of open greenspace to keep you busy all afternoon.
2. Laurelhurst Park
Laurelhurst Park has a lot going for it. First off, it is beautiful. The playground is ample, there is a huge pond, plenty of trails to give you space, and public art to inspire you.
3. Mt Scott Park
Mt Scott has a fun playground, and a great indoor pool complete with a slide, making this a destination park.
4. Woodlawn Park
Not only does Woodlawn Park have updated play structures and fun winding paths, it has plenty of greenspace to stage outdoor productions throughout the summer like this Star Trek in the Park show.
5. Lents Park
Featuring a great play structure for younger kids and plenty of room for skateboarding and biking for older kids, Lents Park is a wonderful asset to the community in SE Portland.
6. Dawson Park
A recently remodeled park, this strip of land between N. Williams and N. Stanton has an awesome play structure and water feature that will make you feel like a kid again.
7. Mt Tabor Park
On a hot summer day, Mt Tabor's playground is the place to be. Situated under a large fir canopy, this park stays cool year round and features a large playground with a good mix of updated and classic play structures.
8. Dickinson Park
A climber's paradise, this SW Portland park is a lovely place to get away and play. Great views make the trip worthwhile, and the kids will love to play too.
9. Washington Park
If you have lots of energy, this is a great place to burn some of it off. This large playground has numerous play structures, a sand pit, and plenty of shade to make it an enjoyable trip.
10. Murase Plaza Park
Sure, driving to Wilsonville is kind of a bit much to go to a park, but this one is worth it. If you are down in the area, consider a stop by this fun park that features a giant slide and an eagle's nest made of net.
11. Westmoreland Park
The nature-based play park at Westmoreland can't be beat for creative play. Rocks and trees form the playground, which is great fun for kids and adults of all ages.
12. Sellwood Park
Lots of greenspace, a lovely playground, and close proximity to Oaks Park makes this the perfect place to explore your inner child.
Which park has your favorite playground? Let us know in the comments below.
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