Playgrounds

Park Report: Nathan Chapman Trail and South Hill Community Park

August 27, 2018 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

Nathan Chapman Memorial Trail (The NCT Trail) and South Hill Community Park

Contributing writer, Amy, has a report on a park and trail great for hunting painted rocks, taking a stroll, or having an adventure with new bike riders near Puyallup’s South Hill. If you’ve heard references to the, “NCT trail, ” and wondered where on Earth it is, we’re here to help!

Nathan Chapman Memorial Trail (simply known as “NCT” to locals) and South Hill Community Park are a sweet little two-fer that includes both a nature trail and playground. Nestled discreetly on South Hill on the corner of 144th St E and 86th St E, just down the road from Rogers High School, you would never know that this calm and beautiful landscape is mere blocks from the hustle and bustle of Meridian.

Trail at Nathan Chapman Park

The 1.6 miles of paved trail is actually split into two separate walks, both accessible from the trailhead access point at the north end of the parking lot, or the playground trail at the south end of the parking lot. All of the trails are paved with almost no incline, making it perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, and little ones learning to ride. Trails are pet-friendly and offer waste bag stations at both ends of the trail.

The South Hill Loop is a short loop that encircles the soccer fields and wetlands, perfect for those looking for a short walk. The Nathan Chapman Memorial Trail is a longer path that meanders through the woods and back toward the surrounding neighborhood. Both trails are mostly forested, offering ample shade on a warm day and beautiful colors in the fall.

This trail system gets a lot of use, seeing increased usage over the past year or so as it has become a popular spot for the rock painting movement. It’s not uncommon to come across people hiding or finding painted rocks along the path, so keep your eyes peeled and you may find a treasure for yourself!

Playground at South Hill Community Park

The playground boasts three separate structures. One for older kids that includes a climbing wall and tube slide, one for toddlers that includes a short tunnel and small slide, and a set of two swings. Both are “big kid” swings, and there are no baby swings or special needs swings at this park.

The modest restroom facility includes two bathrooms and a water fountain that are only open seasonally and typically close during the winter. There are no baby changing tables, so plan to head back to the car if you’ve got littles in diapers. There are also two picnic tables near the playground as well as a few benches.

One draw of this play space is the huge field area, consisting of two full-size soccer fields. They can get a little muddy during the rainy season, but offer ample space for all park goers to find an area to play the sport of their choice.

**Be aware that there have been reports of car prowls in the parking lot. Be certain that you secure your vehicle and do not leave any valuables in sight in your car!

** Also, several readers on our Fb page warn that there is a big problem with dog poop here-even right on the trail. Ewwww. Also, Ewwww. Anyway, look out for that, and those of you with dogg-os, please do scoop the poop!

Amy Rogers

Playground Report: Sunset Terrace in University Place

July 17, 2017 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

Playground Report: Sunset Terrace

Tabitha has a report on a University Place park that’s family friendly and has a playground great for toddlers to big kids! Plus, it’s close to Fircrest and East Tacoma. What more could you want? Read on for all the scoop!

This University Place park is very close to Fircrest and East Tacoma on 19th St W, not far from Highway 16 and is a perfect spot to play with kids of all ages.

The playground is spread out so kids aren’t crammed together, and it’s a great park if you have multiple children.

A couple structures focus on ages 2-5. They’re not as tall, have small slides, a cute, small bench, and a small climbing wall that the little kids also use as a slide. The playground also has a bigger section for ages 5-12. It’s taller and has stuff to climb on and hang from. There are also swings for all ages and a tire swing to spin on. The playground isn’t fully fenced in, but it does have a fence adjacent to the main street.

[Read more…]

Park Report: Clark’s Creek Park South, with a Bonus Hike

May 25, 2017 by Tiffany Guerzon Leave a Comment

Clark’s Creek Park South:

1700 12th Ave SW, Puyallup (12th Ave SW and 17th St SW)

This beautiful park has paved paths, a creek, hiking trails, a play structure, an off leash dog park, picnic shelter and lots of open, grassy space. The whole family can enjoy a day here–even the family dog.

Clark’s Creek Park has a north and south entrance. The south entrance is where you want to go for playing. Once you arrive, there is a good amount of parking and clean restrooms.

The play structure has several levels and offers various climbing structures, monkey bars and two slides. The play set is surrounded by paved paths for trike riding or a game of hopscotch. There are plenty of benches for parents. You’ll find lots of open grassy area for picnics or running around as well.

If you take the wide path behind the playground you will see a bit of the creek on your right and if you continue around to your left you’ll find an off leash dog park.

Bonus hike for two parks in one playdate:

If you want to take a short hike, you can walk to the next park, DeCoursey Park. The walk is flat and about 1.25 miles round trip. To go to DeCoursey, continue past the dog park until you reach Clark’s Creek Park North -you will know it by the baseball fields and tennis courts. Keep on the path that goes along the right side of the tennis courts. Go straight until you reach a big yellow gate. Go around the gate and cross the street-use caution here, of course. The trail entrance is a little to the left of where you cross and you will see a wooden bridge going over the creek.

Cross the bridge and take the dirt path that loops around to the left. You’ll cross another small bridge then arrive at the park. Since both parks have restrooms and benches, this is a perfect 2 in 1 park play date. To return to Clark’s Creek South Park, reverse the directions. Once you cross the street the yellow gate isn’t immediately visible, but the trail is marked by a Clark’s Creek Sign.

Read more about DeCoursey Park here! It has a great, all ages playground.

Both these parks are also popular spots for hiding and finding painted rocks!

Playground Report: Mayfair Playfield

March 21, 2017 by Maegen Blue 2 Comments

If you’re one of our readers near Parkland/Spanaway or the greater area, you’ll be glad to know there is a new place to take the kids.

Yep, the best thing about this new playground is its location in an area that definitely needs more fun spots for families. My pal, Barb, checked it out with her kids and sent in this review (note the important caution about the creek).

Mayfair Playfield is a 4-acre neighborhood playfield that features a play structure added in September of 2016. The play structure has 2 slides, climbing spaces, monkey bars, and a spinning pole. There is also a freestanding large web swing.

The park has at least 12 picnic tables with most located close to the play structure and a few placed further out under some trees for a shady, more private option. There was also a large pile of sand that, while not contained in a sandbox, was more than enough to spark creative play and digging for my kiddo.

The field itself is large enough to host a friendly game of football or soccer without bothering play at the play structure.

North Fork Clover Creek runs along the northern border of the park. While this is a lovely feature, there is no fence along that side of the park so this would not be a good place to bring any kiddos that might like to wander. At the time of our visit the water was running quite quickly and was too deep to wade in.

Pets are allowed but must be leashed and picked up after. Parking was very limited with only 3 spaces, one of which was a handicap space. You may be able to find parking in the neighborhood surrounding the park.

A neighborhood group, Mayfair Dream Project helped make the playground a reality and posts regular park updates. They have an Easter egg hunt coming up! You can get the park address and directions at the Pierce County website.

We’ll be curious to see if the creek becomes suitable for wading or play in the summer. Right now, Barb said it was up to her waist/hips and running fast, so definitely don’t take kids here unless you can closely supervise them. I suspect it’s unusually high with all the rain. If you’ve checked this one out, let us know! Been to a playground we haven’t featured yet? Send me an email or leave a comment. We’d love to feature your review.

Playground Report: The New Playground at Meridian Habitat Center In Puyallup

November 7, 2016 by Maegen Blue 3 Comments

Hey, Puyallup, there’s a new playground in town! It’s on South Hill, at the Meridian Habitat Center, which is that kind of funky building and open space just past the Walgreens. You might have heard it called the Puyallup Amphitheatre.

It’s a Pierce County Parks property, and it’s a great new addition to an area that could really use some more play places!

New playground structure at playground in Puyallup near Walgreens

The centerpiece is this big climbing structure. It’s similar to the one in the Kids’ Zone at the zoo, only bigger and better. [Read more…]

Playground Report: Puget Park

September 12, 2016 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

Sun is in the forecast all week. Just in time, our contributor Tabitha has a report on Puget Park in North Tacoma, a unique pocket park with interesting equipment, shady picnic spots, and a trail that leads down to Ruston Way.

Puget Park sits on 1.22 acres and is nestled on 31st & N. Proctor in North Tacoma, with a newly updated playground and a trail connecting Puget Gulch and the Ruston Way waterfront.

pugetpark1

The park offers a playground, trails, and shade that makes it a great spot on a hot day. There are tables for a picnic, or you can throw down a blanket and relax on the grass.

pugetpark2

The playground equipment is fairly new and has many different features. I’d say the toys are appropriate for a range of ages; 0-2 years old will love the swings and the shaded grass, 2-12 will find something they love. I’d say the big toy is geared more towards ages 2-7, as the older children get bored quickly. Ages 8-12 will enjoy the spinning toys surrounding the big toy. There are plenty of hills if your child loves to roll down the grass hills. [Read more…]

South Sound Toddler Playgrounds

August 22, 2016 by Keri Welch 6 Comments

Where can you find a playground that’s safe for toddlers? We asked this question over on our Facebook page, and as usual, our readers delivered. If you need a playground that’s fenced near Tacoma, or you just want to find somewhere where you can keep your, “Runners,” in sight, we think you’ll love this handy guide.

Read on for the whole list! [Read more…]

Park Report: Wildwood Park in Puyallup

August 17, 2016 by Maegen Blue Leave a Comment

This shady park might be Puyallup’s best kept secret, and it’s perfect for kids whose favorite playground is mother nature!

It’s great if you’re looking for a park where kids can wade or keep cool,and it’s also a nice spot to meet up for a nature walk (you can even bring the stroller!) or a picnic.

The two playground structures are by the little creek (Crick?). They’re nothing special, but the kids will have fun on them. The metal slide can get hot on those very rare days when they’ve been in the sun long enough.

Wildwood Park Puyallup

For most kids, the water will be the primary attraction. It’s truly just a trickle, especially in the summer, but it’s plenty for kids to stomp in, and it’s just the right amount for making temporary dams and floating leaf boats. I always made my kids wear sandals or water shoes.

My boys and I have also spent many days here exploring the woods and walking on the trails. It’s an 80 acre park with more than 50 forested ares of towering trees.

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A few things to know if you go: [Read more…]

FREE Things do in Seattle with Kids

August 15, 2016 by Keri Welch Leave a Comment

One of my favorite ways to spend time with my kiddos in the summer is a trip to the city. All of these excursions are free or almost free. You could theoretically walk to all of these locations from Pike Place Market, but little legs may not want to traverse the city blocks. Bring a stroller or Ergo, and be prepared for hills.

FREE Things to do with Kids in Seattle

Olympic Sculpture Park

FREE Things to do with Kids in Seattle

If you love art and beautiful views of the Sound and the Olympics, check out the Olympic Sculpture Park. This outdoor art space features gigantic pieces of art along an impressive walkway at the very north end of the Seattle waterfront. It’s an awesome way for kids to experience art in a space where they can run, jump, and scream and no one will know the difference. There is a parking garage or you can find a spot on the street. Throughout the summer, you can also catch Summer at SAM on Thursdays and Saturdays, with live music, outdoor yoga, free art tours, and a Kids’ Corner.

Myrtle Edwards Park

Photo Courtesy of Belltown Seattle

After you explore the art, take a 1.25 mile bike ride through Myrtle Edwards Park. The incomparable views of Elliott Bay continue along this waterfront bike and pedestrian path. If you’re into geocaching, there are some caches you might enjoy or maybe you can find some Pokemon!

West Seattle Water Taxi

Photo Courtesy West Seattle Chamber of Commerce

Take a 15 minute water taxi ride from Seattle to Alki Beach ($5.25/one way per person, FREE/under age 5) for a speedy ferry like experience. If you’re looking for a quick bite or a sweet treat, hop in line at Marination Ma Kai. The award winning food truck is now a restaurant on Alki. Their food and shave ice is worth the wait! If you’re looking to cruise through Lake Union, try the Seattle Ferry Ice Cream Cruise.

Alki Beach

Sunset at Alki Beach

You don’t have to drive to the ocean to dip your toes in the sand! Enjoy a day at Alki Beach, where kids can play in the water as you watch the ferries and sailboats float by with the backdrop of the city skyline. You can bring bikes and trikes here, too if you want to jaunt along the 2.5 mile walkway. If you want to show your kids some history, checkout the monument at the south end of the beach that marks the arrival of the first white settlers on November 13, 1851.

Pike Place Market

Eyeing up the seafood at Pike Place

Heading to the city just for a day at Pike Place Market is worth the trip! Kids love to watch the flying fish, meet Rosy the Pig, and grab some mini doughnuts. Don’t miss the gum wall down below on Post Alley, and all the interesting shops. Mom can buy herself some farm fresh flowers for a bargain price, too!

Seattle Center

FREE Things to do in Seattle with Kids

Taking a ride to the top of the Space Needle is pricy, but there is lots of FREE fun to be had at Seattle Center. Check out the newly opened Artist’s Playground, which is fun for big and little kids and the coolest playground I have ever seen. Kids can safely traverse ropes and slides that are high in the sky. There are areas for big kids and tiny tots. Or, spend a warm day playing in one of the many fountains, the most popular of which is the International Fountain where water sprays in tune with music. There is always something going on at the Armory (Center House), such as cultural festivals, concerts, art installations, magic shows, and more.

World Class Museums

Museum of Flight

Seattle’s museums are such a fun way to expose your child to culture, art, and innovation. On the 1st Thursday of each month, many museums host special hours and offer free admission. Our favorites include the Museum of Flight (perfect for toddlers, but kids of all ages will love of it), Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI), and the Seattle Art Museum.

Starbucks

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

If you’re in need of a caffeinated pick me up, there are options galore. Try the Starbucks on the 40th floor of the Columbia Tower (open during regular business hours). The highest Starbucks in the world also boasts amazing views of the city, for FREE. My boys particularly love looking out at Century Link and Safeco Field. Or, walk a few blocks east to the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room. Part coffee house, part regular Starbucks, and part roastery, the atmosphere is always a party. Kids will enjoy watching the roasting process and the packing machines do their thing. Be sure to order off their special menu, where even a regular latte will make you wish you could stop here every day. If you’ve never been, it’s also fun to stop into the very first Starbucks at Pike Place Market where all the magic started.

Dick’s Drive In

FREE Things to do in Seattle with Kids

Want to grab a quick bite while you’re in the city? Try the iconic Dick’s Drive In where the burgers are super yummy and the hand dipped shakes are not to be missed. The easiest location to access is in Queen Anne, just west of Seattle Center. They have free parking!

Farther North

If you want to go a little farther north by car, you can make a pit stop at the Fremont Troll. Parking is a little tricky to find along neighboring streets, but this a must do with your kiddos at least once in a lifetime. Where else in the world can you meet a troll holding a VW Bug? Warning: little boys will attempt to pick his nose.

FREE Things to do in Seattle with Kids

Another location worth an all day excursion is the Ballard Locks. Watch the boats pass through the locks of the Lake Washington Ship Canal, or head to the fish ladder where during the summer you can watch all the salmon swim upstream to return to spawn. It is mesmerizing and a thrill for little ones! There is also a botanical garden, and free summertime concerts on Saturdays and Sundays.

FREE Things to do in Seattle with Kids

Know of another awesome attraction for kids in Seattle? Leave a note in the comments!

FREE Things to do in Seattle with Kids

Playground Report: Edgemont Park in Edgewood

August 8, 2016 by Maegen Blue 2 Comments

Here’s a little playground that has one thing that will make it worth the trip for many of you.

What is it? Fencing. All Around.

Yep, if you’ve got a kiddo who likes to run off on you, Edgemont Park in little Edgewood is worth your consideration.

It features a three part jungle gym with slides as well as a swing set with swings for big kids and babies.

It’s connected to a grassy area and a ball field. There is also a picnic shelter and bathrooms, which seem to be open sporadically.

The gate to the playground opens on to the parking lot, and it does get left open a lot, so you’ll want to make sure it gets closed or position yourself so you have your back to it. Of course, if your kiddos are like mine were at that age, they’ll probably be off making sand piles on the baseball field.

There was tape around one of the big trees on our visit, which makes me a little nervous. I probably wouldn’t stand under it, and I definitely wouldn’t climb it!

Crowds wise, this is one of those all or nothing spots. Most weekdays you’ll have the place to yourself. On a summer weekend, it’s a popular spot for picnics and community groups, and you may find yourself with the whole town-or at least most of it.

If you’re in the Auburn/Fife/Milton/Puyallup area, I do think it’s worth a stop, especially if you like the security of the fenced in area.

We have a complete round up of toddler friendly playgrounds coming later this week. In the meantime, be sure you’ve made plans to join us at Les Gove in Auburn Tuesday morning for a free princess meet and greet that’s definitely preschooler approved!