My Favorite Playgrounds of 2010

I thought as the outdoor playground season was wrapping up I'd do some do a few posts reviewing some of the highlights of our Playground Tour 2010.

To start, here is a list of 5 playgrounds (and one honorable mention) that I wish more playgrounds were like.

1. Bridgeland Community Centre Playground

This playground is what I wish more community playgrounds were like. It doesn't take up a huge area, but it has lots of variety, things that will appeal to toddler/preschoolers as well as school-aged kids. It is also accessible to kids with a large variety of disabilities. 

2. Renfew Community Centre Playground

This playground is perfect for kids 5 and under. There is so much that kids who aren't even a year and a half can do independently. The flooring and ramps are great for crawlers or kids who are still unsteady on their feet. But it still has things that will be appropriately challenging for preschoolers. It is also one of the most accessible parks I've found in Calgary.

3. Prince's Island Park Playground

This is a definitely a destination playground. The surrounding park area is gorgeous, complete with pathways, mature trees and the surrounding river. During the summer months you can also walk over to the water park at Eau Claire. The playground itself is one of the largest in Calgary with something for everyone. The Calgary theme completes the package.

4. South Glenmore Park Playground

This playground has everything. It has big toddler area and a big schooled aged play structure. The park area has mature trees and there are pathways that run by the playground that continue along the water. There are picnic tables and large gazebo. At least in the summer months there are even washrooms right next to the playground. The spray park is completely accessible and there is accessible flooring throughout the playground. 

5. Prestwick Pirate/Castle Playground

Gordie was too young to fully appreciate this playground but it is one I would expect him to beg me to take him in years to come. Nothing could be cooler than playing in a castle except maybe a pirate ship. This playground is very visually appealing and provides great opportunities for pretend play. 

6. Honorable Mention - Alberta Children's Hospital Playground

This playground is everything a playground should be. If the parking was better it would definitely be in my top 5. The stage provides an opportunity for play that I haven't seen elsewhere in Calgary. The flooring and toddler play structure have great are accessible to children with a wide variety of disabilities. The gazebo is impressive and the wide ramp allows people with physical disabilities to get up to a good height. The park area is beautiful with pathways, hills benches and picnic tables.

If you have an suggestion for a playground I should review please e-mail me at playgroundsnoop@gmail.com.