Parks are an easy way to get out of the house. Here are some of our favorite parks on The Eastside.
North Rose Hill Woodlands Park
North Rose Hill Woodlands Park
Address: 9930 124th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98033
Parking: street parking on NE 100th Street and 128th Avenue NE or in the Fire Station lot on 124th Avenue
Parking: street parking on NE 100th Street and 128th Avenue NE or in the Fire Station lot on 124th Avenue
What makes it AWESOME: At a mere first glance, the castle-themed playground is one that makes you want to pull over for some spontaneous park fun, but you'll find it is a gem beyond sight! The full playground is fenced off with a tot-lot inside for little ones. Although there are only two swings, there is a tire swing and a climbing wall. This playground is unlike anything I've ever seen and is fully equipped to exhaust your kids (and you!), as well as ignite all sorts of Medieval pretend play. Also be sure to walk the boardwalk and explore the plant- and animal-life, and enjoy the covered picnic area near the wide, open grassy area perfect for lawn games.
Bonus: There is an additional fully fenced tot-lot located on the east end of the park just off 128th Avenue NE.
Helpful tip: Be sure to encourage your kids to go to the bathroom before heading out! No restroom located onsite.
Kelsey Creek Park
Address: 410 130th Pl SE, Bellevue, WA 98005
Parking: parking lot on site
What makes it AWESOME: There's fun for the whole family with a park for young tots (with restrooms), hiking and jogging trails, various picnic spots, and a farm! The farm animals, including rabbits, chickens, sheep, and the biggest hog I've seen up close (excluding ones at county fairs), are out in the pastures or yards year-round, rain or shine, from 9:00am - 3:30pm at no cost (donations are welcomed and appreciated). There are also various farm programs including children's recreational programs, seasonal camps, pony care and farm experience classes, farm-themed tours, and more.
What makes it AWESOME: There's fun for the whole family with a park for young tots (with restrooms), hiking and jogging trails, various picnic spots, and a farm! The farm animals, including rabbits, chickens, sheep, and the biggest hog I've seen up close (excluding ones at county fairs), are out in the pastures or yards year-round, rain or shine, from 9:00am - 3:30pm at no cost (donations are welcomed and appreciated). There are also various farm programs including children's recreational programs, seasonal camps, pony care and farm experience classes, farm-themed tours, and more.
Bonus: There is a sensory garden for your family to touch and smell some much loved and cared for herbs and plants.
Helpful tip: A stroller for your little ones will come in handy while exploring the park and farm.
Marymoor Dog Park
Address: 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, WA 98052
Parking: Lots D and G. $1 fee at parking stations.
What makes it AWESOME: This off-leash dog park brings unadulterated happiness and freedom to dogs and dog lovers alike! Dogs are finally out with their best friends and free to swim at any of the 5 river access points. But what does this have to do with your kids? This area is a one-of-a-kind spot where dogs roam free and kids can be both highly entertained by so many dogs off-leash, as well as have some friendly encounters with well-behaved dogs. Plastic "pick-up" bags are available for your dog, but if you need a bathroom break there is a sani-can at the midway point of the river trail.
Bonus: At the end of the river path, there is an entrance with a wooded path that leads you a dock with a spectacular view of the water. And at sunset, it is magical.
Helpful tip: If your kid needs a stroller, bring one with good shocks. The dirt paths are a little bumpy.
Luther Burbank Park
Address: 2040 84th Avenue Southeast, Mercer Island, WA 98040
Parking: parking lot on site (North Lot is closest to the playground)
What makes it AWESOME: The grounds are so well manicured with beautiful hanging plants bordering the covered walkway to the playground. The playground is clean and full of action involving hanging, climbing, and swinging. There is even a zip line! There are 3 tennis courts, so don't forget to bring your rackets. And if you're looking for another off-leash park, Luther Burbank offers one that is beloved by locals. There's a lot of open space and barbecues, so this is a park that can keep you and your family occupied all day!
Bonus: Walk down to the water and get a beautiful view of Lake Washington. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy some water play, maybe even skip a rock or two!
Helpful tip: The beach is rocky and the area isn't fit for a large group, but still fun nonetheless!
Farrel-McWhirter Park
Address: 19545 NE Redmond Rd, Redmond, WA 98053
What makes it AWESOME: This unique park is fun for the whole family! Features include a children's animal farm, horse arena with trailer parking, covered picnic shelters with electricity and running water, and multi-use trails that connect to the Puget Power/City of Redmond Trail. This park also offers a fun and challenging orienteering course, tire swings, and an engaging nature trail.
Keep finding your family fun -
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