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Keep Kids Dry & Mud-Free at these Sensational Columbus Playgrounds
Blooming flowers, singing birds, and warmer weather are all signs that spring is starting up in Columbus! For parents, this means an end to cabin fever and finding endless ways to keep kids entertained in the house. But have you ever gone to the playground on a beautiful spring day, only to realize that everything is wet and muddy? I have, and let me tell you, it’s not a good time if you’re not prepared! So, what can you do when the weather is finally nice after a week of rain? You look for dry playgrounds with solid rubber (or even cement) flooring!
Most playgrounds are built upon dirt and mulch, which is fine most of the time. But after a heavy rain, that all becomes a soggy, muddy mess. I’ve learned that we can still enjoy a day at the playground after some rain, we just have to be a little pickier about which playground we go to. So here are some great options for mud-free, dry playgrounds around Columbus, Ohio!
Columbus Zoo & Aquarium in Lewis Center
While the Columbus Zoo isn’t a typical playground and is not free admission, it is still a fantastic spot for muddy days. All of the pathways are paved, there are multiple playgrounds inside the zoo with rubber flooring, and you can even duck into the indoor exhibits if it does start raining. Restrooms can be found in each area of the zoo. Note: The aquatic-themed playground near the manatees has a splash pad during the summer months, so you may wish to avoid this playground to stay dry during that time.
Indianola Park Playground in Worthington
Indianola Park has two playgrounds side-by-side, one designed for big kids, and one for toddlers. Both are on rubber flooring and have standard playground equipment. One unique feature at this park is the dinosaur spring riders, which should be fun for all ages. There are no restrooms available at Indianola Park.
Emerald Fields Kids’ Park in Dublin
As a large playground, Emerald Fields has plenty to offer. Some of the equipment may be difficult for younger toddlers, but there are also bucket swings and some other nearby play areas with musical toys that smaller children can enjoy. Plus, there’s lots of space to run around and several umbrellas for shade. Restrooms can be found near the parking lot.
Millstone Creek Park in Westerville
Millstone Creek is another very large playground with tons of play equipment to keep kids entertained. Due to the large size, it may be tough to keep track of multiple kids without extra adults- but this exciting playground is definitely worth a visit! The playground area is built upon flat rubber flooring, and there are restrooms available in the park.
Scioto Audubon Metro Park in Columbus
Scioto Audubon Metro Park is a large park with various trails, a nature center, a dog park, and a playground. With play equipment for both big and little kids, the playground is a great option for families. Nearby, the nature center can be reached by walking (one path involves stairs and is not stroller-friendly), or just driving up to the closer parking lot. I highly recommend the nature center, as they have live turtles, an indoor play area, and storytime once a week. Restrooms are available at the nature center.
Towers Park in Westerville
Featuring unique equipment to inspire creativity and pretend play, Towers Park has a playground designed specifically for young toddlers. The toddler play area has rubber flooring and cute little playhouses. You will also find a colorful stained-glass gazebo and a rope climbing course for the bigger kids.
Village Green Park in Powell
This Powell playground offers a smooth rubber floor, along with toddler-friendly equipment such as a small train structure and a tunnel. Note that there is also a fun splash pad, which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, so if you’re looking to stay dry then make sure to visit Village Green during the off-season.
Whitney Playground in Worthington
Whitney Playground is on the smaller side, but has all the standard playground equipment. This park is located right off of the Olentangy Trail, which makes it a good playground for those also wanting to take a nice walk on a paved trail.
Windsor Park in Grove City
Windsor Park has soft rubber flooring, swings, and lots of fun playground equipment. My kids always have a blast here! The parking lot is a little small but I can usually still find a spot. Seasonal restrooms are available in the park.
Wyman Woods in Grandview
Wyman Woods is a fun playground featuring a large covered slide. Some of the equipment is geared towards bigger kids, but there is still plenty of space for toddlers to run around and play. There is also a swingset with infant bucket swings. Restrooms are available next to the playground.
Other Tips
Although visiting the right playground can significantly cut down on mud, it’s still a good idea to be prepared for wet conditions. Bring along a towel or two to dry off wet slides and swings, and maybe even an extra pair of clothes for your child (in case they are like mine and decide to go down the “water slide”). These wet and muddy days are also a good time to break out your child’s rain boots (need a new pair? Check out these! https://amzn.to/3T4IFpL), just in case you do come across any puddles or mud.
While all of these dry playgrounds have rubber or cement floors, keep in mind that the surrounding areas may still get muddy. Many playgrounds have adjacent fields or woods, so it’s always good to be prepared with wipes and extra clothes just in case your little one decides to run off into a wet or muddy spot.
However, hopefully this list will be helpful in helping parents feel better about getting outside on wet days without having to deal with super muddy and messy playgrounds. Alternatively, going for a walk on paved trails is another great option for wet weather! Either way, mud and puddles shouldn’t keep you from getting out on the lovely spring days ahead.
