Summer time means playing outdoors a lot and this is a good habit to instill in our children. Outdoor play is important to their development. It is where they fully and freely master running, leaping, and jumping. Cognitive, social and problem solving skills are developed too as they interact with other children.
Did you know that there are a lot of parks and playgrounds in Schenectady? So my commitment to you is to update this post by the end of Summer. My goal is to visit a different park every week and add our favorites to the list.
Central Park
500 Iroquois Way, Schenectady, NY 12309
This is a Huge park with two (2) playgrounds one is the "Tiny Tot Land" made for 2 to 5 years old. I've noticed that they have put in new swings in this area. It is padded so its perfect for small children. There are benches to sit on and it's shaded. So this park is perfect for when it's really sunny outside.
The other playground is adjacent to the Pavillon. They have retro play structures, old and rusted, but they still work and kids still love them. It is shaded with trees but it's really spread out, which could be tough with 2 or more children.
The parking lot is just close to the playgrounds so that is convenient. There are restrooms, which I think needs to be maintained better and lighting could be improved. It is also a hike from the playgrounds, one time I had to do a sprint carrying my newly potty-trained son from the old playground to the restroom. There are picnic tables as well as a duck pond, and a public pool, which means it could get crowded during summer. Plus do not forget to take a stroll at the Rose Garden, one of America's most beautiful Rose Gardens.
Collins Park:
Schonowee Ave, Scotia, NY 12302
This is a large park with volleyball, tennis and basketball courts as well as softball and baseball fields. There is a large playground that is fenced and partly shaded. The playground is built on sand so most of the times we take our shoes off when we place here. There are restrooms across the playground, still a hike if you ask me.
Jumpin' Jacks is right across the street. It serves burgers, ice cream, and more. If you visit this park in the afternoon, you can have dinner at Jumpin' Jacks and then go to the Freedom park for the concert.
The only thing I do not like about going to Collins is that parking is far from the playground. Parking at Jumpin' Jack's is for their customers so if I want to park close I usually buy food or drinks from Jumpin' Jacks.
River Road Playground
2555 River Road, Niskayuna 12309
This is a small, quiet park with a couple of swings and slides. It has a unique climbing dome in the middle. It's one of the most popular. I always see kids climb the structure. So if you have a climbers in the family, bring them here.
There is also a shaded Pavilion with picnic tables that is close to the playground, which is very convenient. There is a baseball field too and a path for walking and biking. The parking lot is spacious and is far from the main road and restrooms.
Indian Meadows Park
155 Dorms Rd., Schenectady NY 12302
Located in Glenville. What makes this park unique is
that it has a slide that is built like a tree house in the middle. The slides are really tall and steep, I think they are the tallest slides in the area. It makes this park fun and exciting for older and daring children.
Besides the awesome treehouse, there are more slides and swings and bouncy things and other stuff for smaller kids to enjoy.
This park also has trails for hiking, so it makes for a great place for a nature walk. Plenty of tables to eat at if you want to have a picnic lunch (included a shaded pavilion) and there is a basketball court.
The only thing about this park is that it could get buggy because it is by the woods, so make sure you have bug spray.
The Crossings of Colonie:
580 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville, NY 12211
Yes this playground is not in Schenectady County but is really worth the trip. Their playground is huge and padded with relatively new structures. Although last time I went, I saw a couple of swings that need to be repaired.
There are no shaded areas in the playground so if you are like me who cannot stay long under the heat of the sun, then plan your trip accordingly or make sure you put sunblock on or wear a hat.
There is a maze to explore, walking trails that are stroller and wheelchair accessible, picnic tables and picnic grounds. There is also a pond with fountains in the middle where you can see ducks, geese and fish. Some feed them but there is actually a sign that says it's not allowed. What I like most is that they have clean bathrooms although it's a hike from the playground.
There is also a vending machine, and a drinking fountain by the pond. Parking is close to the playground, which is convenient. It is always crowded though so best time to go is on weekdays or odd hours.
So what are you waiting for? Go outside and have a picnic at the park today! And if you see us in the park or playground, do say hi!
Did your favorite park or playground make it to the list? If you think the park or playground that you frequent should be in our list of favorites, then please let us know by leaving a comment below.
