6 Wichita Area Playgrounds Worth Going Out of Your Way to Visit

Wichita is not short on green space or playgrounds, and I hope your family has a nearby park or neighborhood school with an awesome playground you visit regularly! Every once in a while you need to mix it up though, and for those times I’m here to suggest some extra special playgrounds that will increase the entertainment factor exponentially. These aren’t you’re average playgrounds; they each have something unique that make them loads of fun and perfect for an adventure outside of your normal neighborhood park.

Wichita Playgrounds Worth Going Out of Your Way to Visit

Exploration Park 
300 North McClean Boulevard Wichita, KS 67203

Exploration Park

Hidden in plain sight just southeast of Exploration Place, Exploration Park has three separate large structures ideal for a range of ages and abilities as well as a sand pit, water feature, and music area. Kids love the hills and many paths and there’s also easy access to Exploration Trail which takes you by the famous Arkansas River troll and the Keeper of the Plains. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the bountiful seating area or hit the links at the mini golf course with the best view in town.


Dalton Palmer Park
612 State Street Augusta, KS 67010

It’s the tallest play structure in the state of Kansas! Located in Augusta, KS, Dalton Palmer Park (or the “Ninja Park” as my girls refer to it). Boasting the title of tallest manufactured playground in Kansas, this park has tunnel slides, large towers, challenging climbing activities, and a one-of-a-kind gravity swing (such a hit every time we visit). The rubber surface is great for kids, but I would say this park leans more toward kids ages 5 and up. 


Island Park Playground 
200 North Main Winfield, KS 67156 

Come to Island Park for creative play at a playground like none other. It is beloved by locals and visitors who love to play on the farm, in the castle, or with the sprawling classic playground activities. Walking paths and ducks galore finish off an ideal park experience worth the drive. 


Madison Avenue Central Park 
512 East Madison Avenue Derby, KS 67037

Your littles will beg to revisit this cheery playground. This little park is packed with slides, bridges and things to climb and explore. The artificial turf and wildlife themed mural will brighten any day. Parents will feel serious 90s nostalgia when they take a turn (or five) down the Discovery Zone style roller slide, but their adult selves will appreciate the ample shade.


O.J. Watson Park 
3022 S. McLean Boulevard Wichita, KS 67217

This south Wichita treasure features nearly 120 acres of green space including three separate play ground structures. But, it’s all the extras that take this park to the next level. Pony rides, a miniature train, paddle boats, fishing, a yellow brick road, and mini golf are all on site for a fun (and budget friendly day of family fun. 


Pawnee Prairie Park
2625 S. Tyler Wichita KS 67209

There are two entrances, the East Entrance by Tyler street, where there is a designated parking lot to handle horse trailers, with watering stations for the horses. There is also a bicycle repair station, drinking fountain, and restrooms. The West Entrance is on Pawnee St and features a small kids’ playground, a picnic shelter, a drinking fountain, and restroom facilities. Dogs are allowed on a leash, and there are pet drinking bowls on both water fountains.

The zip line is always a hit!


Sedgwick County Park Boundless Playground 
6501 West 21st Street North Wichita, KS 67212

Kids love all the activities at the Boundless Playground. There are activities, ramps, swings, sand, and slides galore for children of all ages to enjoy.

Open structures and bike structures throughout the park extend the fun.

Have you visited all of these extraordinary parks? Do you have an extra-special playground that your family loves to frequent?

 


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Ginny Ellis
Ginny Ellis is a hometown girl who happily resides in East Wichita with her husband, two young sons, two rowdy dogs, and one spoiled tortoise. Together they enjoy taking part in all our city has to offer, especially if it involves being outdoors, supporting the arts, or is particularly delicious. She is a WAHM who serves as WMB's Events Director as well as holding volunteer positions in Junior League of Wichita, on her neighborhood elementary school's PTO Board, and for United Way of the Plains. Ginny is a podcast enthusiast, laundry folding procrastinator, and insatiable reader who loves the Shockers, theme parties, and her margaritas on the rocks.

1 COMMENT

  1. I love the concept of the park in Derby, we’ve been once. But, I don’t like the fact that there are no gates at the entrances/exits. Especially at the slide, it’s too easy for little ones to run out towards the parking lot.

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