This week, my daughter and I visited the newly renovated playground at Prospect Park in Park Ridge. First let me tell you it is gorgeous! We went on a Monday night and there was literally no one there. Part way through our visit, one other family showed up. I don't know if you consider that good or bad, but it gave my daughter the opportunity to do all the climbing and playing she wanted.
Everything is decked out in pirate theme. One of the two structures looks like a pirate ship, complete with pirate flags and a plank to walk. The plank has a spring underneath so it actually bounces a bit and it was great fun to jump off. The pirate ship also has two slides, plenty of small climbing features (I'm pretty sure my daughter mastered all of them) along with stairs, and a steering wheel and spyglass that over look the splash pad (also pirate themed).
The second structure is better for kids that are a little older and have better climbing skills. There are tons of rope climbing features, along with fake rock walls, and a thin plank bridge. Most of the platforms in this structure are smaller and kids must be confident enough to climb or walk on a swinging bridge to get from one area to the next. Of course my daughter thought it looked awesome and wanted to try it out too. But I have to admit, this structure made me a little nervous for the little ones. The playground does have signage stating it was designed for kids ages 5 - 12 years old and adult supervision is recommended. If you have adventurous kids like mine, you may need to watch them closely until you, and they, are confident with their climbing skills.
The playground area also has two adult swings and two baby swings and benches for parents to sit on.
In addition, there is a covered area with picnic tables next to the playground area and additional tables throughout the park. When the splash pad is open, the concession stand is open as well. There are indoor restrooms available (April 1 - November 1), an athletic field, outdoor performing arts area, paved walking paths and a bike rack. Prospect Park is also home to the administrative offices, the Paula Hassell O'Connor Community Building which has rooms for rent, and the Park Ridge History Center inside Solomon Cottage.
Although we were only able to spend an evening there, I think Prospect Park would be a great place to bring the kids for a day or an afternoon of fun!
Park Details:
- Prospect Park is located at 733 N Prospect Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068
- The park is open daily from dawn to dusk. The splash pad open daily May 26 - September 3 from 10 am to 6 pm. Please check the splash pad website for additional late season and holiday hours and note that they may close early due to inclement weather or lack of attendance.
- Restrooms are available from April 1 to November 1.
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