A while ago I came across this list of free/cheap things to do with children and we've been slowly exploring some of the destinations mentioned. Another 40 degree day (with Humidex) seemed like the perfect time to visit this Oakville playground and splash pad.
My park review disclaimer: If you don't live in the area I hope you enjoy the pics and can use some of the ideas to inspire and explore in your own city. If you have any recommendations for great playgrounds (or new criteria I haven't thought of) please post a comment on this post or email me.
Park Name:
Valleyridge Park - 2524 Valleyridge Road Oakville
The dry side of the playground.
Parking:
There are about 20 parking spaces right near the park and street parking available.
Theme of Park:
Jungle Theme.
Ground Coverage:
Grassy area and pavement surrounding the actual playground that is made of rubberized material.
Variety of Equipment for different ages:
There is some great equipment here for all kids under about 10, but I'd say the main focus of the playground is for little ones under 8.
Best Parts of the Park:
The splash pad is by far the best feature of this park. There are sprinklers that shoot out of the ground, hippos who squirt water and as Jack and Chris put it, "an elephant who throws up water on you". It has a giant gazebo in the centre of the playground to provide shade for a picnic, snack or for parents to monitor their kids. Molly said she liked the castle climber and the hungry, hungry, hippos who squirt water the best, while Jack liked the ground sprinklers and that he was able to somewhat control the sprinklers by pushing buttons placed in the plastic willows.
The castle climber was a big hit.
The splash pad is by far the best feature of this park. There are sprinklers that shoot out of the ground, hippos who squirt water and as Jack and Chris put it, "an elephant who throws up water on you". It has a giant gazebo in the centre of the playground to provide shade for a picnic, snack or for parents to monitor their kids. Molly said she liked the castle climber and the hungry, hungry, hippos who squirt water the best, while Jack liked the ground sprinklers and that he was able to somewhat control the sprinklers by pushing buttons placed in the plastic willows.
Downfalls:
Without the water feature this park isn't really worth a far drive for us, but on a hot summer day it is totally worth it. Unfortunately, there were a number of families who threw their stuff on some of the picnic tables in the shady gazebo to mark there territory, but then never actually sat at them throughout our entire hour and a bit at the park. It was frustrating to people (such as Chris and I) who were then forced to stay in the sun.
Overall Rating:
I would rate the splash pad a 4.5/5, and a great place to go when it's hot outside. The overall park itself has some innovative playground equipment and we would be regulars if we lived in the neighbourhood, but without the splash pad open I would only rate this park a 3.5/5.
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