The world is your playground, and Buffalo has plenty of park-like settings to offer for any explorations you might have in mind. While the ever-popular Olmsted Park options might stand out, there are several lesser-known destinations that are basically begging for your attention. Come over and play at these 9 secret parks in and around Buffalo you've never heard of — but need to visit!

1. Shoshone Park and Playground (15 Shoshone Street)

Shoshone Park and Playground is possibly the best-kept secret park in the city. Located just off Hertel Avenue, this park has just about everything you would desire. Baseball fields, a basketball court, a swimming pool, walking trails, and a generously sized playground all await you within this urban oasis.

2. Golden Hill State Park (9691 Lower Lake Road, Barker)

Golden Hill State Park is a local gem, situated on the shores of Lake Ontario in Barker, NY. This place is out to prove that parks aren't just for kids! Golden Hill features historic lighthouse tours for only $1 along with beautiful views and walking/hiking trails. The kids will love it, too — of course — with a large playground and plenty of room to run! You'll love it here so much, you won't want to leave... which is totally okay during the summer months, because you can reserve a campsite to stay!

3. Rock City Park (505 Route 16 S., Olean)

If you haven't heard of this Western New York park, you're not alone! This is one of the coolest, best-kept secrets in the Buffalo area. Rock City Park is family-friendly, though you might want to hold little ones' hands. Traverse through the rock formations and be prepared to be awe-struck by this amazing secret park.

4. Royalton Ravine County Park (Gasport Road, Gasport)

Royalton Ravine County Park is located in Niagara County, about 45 minutes from downtown Buffalo. This secret park is certainly worth the trip. Between the waterfall, house ruins, pond, and hiking trails, it's hard not to love this place.

5. Beaver Meadow Audubon Center (1610 Welch Road, North Java)

Buffalo Audubon Society's "Beaver Meadow" is located in North Java. The nature preserve and park cover 324 acres and features ponds, wetlands with boardwalk trails, meadows, and eight miles of trails. Whether you're visiting for educational purposes or strictly enjoyment, this is one secret park near Buffalo that will definitely impress.

6. Griffis Sculpture Park (6902 Rohr Road, East Otto)

Griffis Sculpture Park is Buffalo's most whimsical park, and one visit to this place will prove our point! Wander amongst more than 250 sculptures in this perfectly artsy setting.

7. Evangola State Park (10191 Old Lake Shore Road, Irving)

Evangola State Park is another secret park near Buffalo with a "play and stay" option. We've dubbed this park the most beautiful campground near Buffalo, and the park itself is equally impressive! Enjoy a round of disc golf, set your beach chair on the sand in the summer, or take a stroll through the park's groomed walkways. Whatever you decide, we're confident you'll love your visit.

8. Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park (1 Naval Park Cove)

This isn't your typical park, but we think it's worthy of a spot on our list. The Naval Park is located downtown in the Canalside area, and the entire area is spectacular. Pay respects to war veterans, take a tour of decommissioned naval ships, and enjoy the scenery of the waterfront — all from one peaceful setting. The Naval Park is super underrated, and we're here to bring this secret park the attention it deserves.

9. Broderick Park (1170 Niagara Street)

One more atypical park — and we just might have saved the best for last. Broderick Park consists of mainly boardwalk, but we're not complaining. This is a secret park mainly frequented by locals and photographers and for good reason. Capture stunning shots of the Peace Bridge and our neighbors to the north while you stroll along and enjoy the views.

Where is your favorite park in or around Buffalo? Share the best spots with us in the comments! We can't promise your secret is safe with us, but we can promise to share the wealth with fellow Western New Yorkers!