5 Favorite Parks Around Town

5 Favorite Parks in Wichita | Wichita Moms Blog

When my family first moved back to Wichita last spring, we were living with my parents while we waited to close on our home. With two energetic boys under the age of 4 years old, I was constantly searching for something to keep us all sane without going broke. I found going to different parks was the perfect way for my boys to play and for me to have a moment to breathe in fresh air and relax…well, as much as you can with kids. As we embarked on the Tour de Parks, I was impressed by the quality of parks Wichita had to offer. I found 5 parks that I love, and all for varying reasons.

Andover Central Park

One of my favorite parks because it has a baby swing, which oddly enough is hard to find at most parks. There is a large playground area with slides of varying heights, swings, sand pit, toddler ride-ons, a climbing dome, and small zip line. Don’t forget to bring along a stroller, bike, or scooter for your kiddos, because this park is surrounded by a beautiful walking trail. My boys loved scootering around the pond while I walked our dog Bella. We have also spotted a variety of ducks and birds while walking. For a more adventurous time, this park also allows fishing. We haven’t tried yet, that is on my list of “Things My Husband Can Do With the Boys.” Not a big fan of fish, or worms, or giving a two year old anything with a hook.

OJ Watson Park

This park is amazing. I feel like calling it a park doesn’t do it justice, it’s more of a mini outdoor fair (minus the awesome fried fair food).  Seriously this park has everything including: three playgrounds, miniature train rides, fishing, pony rides, and volleyball courts. This park has something that the whole family is sure to love.

Riverside Park

The mecca of all parks. I remember this park from when I was a kid, not so long ago, or so I like to think. My favorite detail about this park is that it is surrounded by a padded ground which makes it extra safe for toddlers. I also love that it has a plethora of trees  (which can be a rarity in Kansas) and walking trails. This park is also perfect for picnics.

Edgemoor Park

This park is a great park if you have kids of varying ages. There is a children’s playground that my boys love because it is surrounded by sand, which is fun, until your four year old buries his favorite hot wheel and you spend half your day digging for it. Bonus: There are also tennis courts and a skate park that your oh so cool teens can enjoy as well.

Eastborough Park

Aka “the blue park” as my boys like to call it. This park is great for varying ages, which I love. There is also a walking path that is great for bikes, strollers, and scooters alike. My favorite part is the covered gazebo area with picnic tables, which makes bringing along lunches and snacks ideal.

Whether you have an hour or an afternoon, going to the park is a great way to spend time with your family and get some much needed Vitamin D. Regardless of what part of town you live in, there is sure to be a park nearby for you and your littles to explore.

What parks would you like to see added to the list?

rachelwoods
Rachel grew up in Wichita on both the east and west side (gasp!) before attending The University of Kansas. Rachel holds a degree in both Communications and Elementary Education. While teaching first grade in Houston, TX, Rachel met a handsome motorcycle riding guy whom she married two years later. After one year of marriage, Rachel and Robert had their first son Luke, now 4 years old. Sixteen months later, Rachel gave birth to a second son, Jake, now 2.5. Last spring, Rachel and her family decided to leave the big city behind in exchange for a lifestyle more focused on family and moved back to the sunflower state. Rachel stays home with both her boys and loves to explore Wichita. Some of Rachel's favorite things include: coffee, Jesus, Dave Matthews, books, Pinterest, mexican food, J Crew, and her family.

10 COMMENTS

  1. Thanks for this! I’ve been wanting to expand our list of favprite parks and was wondering where to start. Also one more park suggestion…. have you been to Hap McLean Park in Park City? It is our very favorite!

  2. We love parks! As my son gets older, they are definitely something I love to do with him, esp since we don’t have a backyard. Where is Eastborough park specifically please? I have heard of it but can’t figure out where it is on the map without driving all around. Thanks!

  3. Has anyone been to the Exploration Park. Apparently its by Riverside park, but tucked back in somewhere. I heard it was good, but can’t remember where I read that.

  4. Thanks Kim! I’ve always wondered where the big blue chair was located, perhaps we will head there this week!

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