Let’s go to the park... easier said than done! Going anywhere with a baby, there is always so much to think about. Do I have everything? Is there somewhere for me to sit? Will the baby be entertained? I visited six area parks and collected some info to help you plan your visit.

Tilles Park

Parking: There is parking right by the playground, as well as in other areas of the park. 

Baby Friendly Playground: They have a baby swing and the ground covering is soft so babies can crawl around. Musical instruments can also be fun for your little one to play with and observe.

Walking Trail: The park is huge and although I did not see an actual trail, you can walk around the paved road.

Pavilion: Several pavilions are around the park, but none are near the playground.

Picnic Tables/Bench: Like the pavilions, the picnic tables are not by the playground. However, several benches are available around the play structure.

Other: Bonus points for a pond where babies can look at little duckies, but again, like most things in Tilles, it is not near the playground. This park is fun but things are spread apart. The splash pad was closed when we went, but should be open now!

Queeny Park

Parking: Queeny has ample parking, but you have to cross the street and go down a hill to get to the playground. Make sure you bring your stroller, the hike back up can be hard.

Baby Friendly Playground: This playground is awesome for older kids, but not really for a baby. The gravel ground covering made me nervous, as Auggie is at the age where he puts EVERYTHING in his mouth. I did not see a baby swing. Under there toddler structure there was a spinning tic tac to that we enjoyed exploring.

Walking Trail: YES! So many trails! Make sure to stay on the pavement and follow the map. You can easily get lost! It is perfect though for long walks with your baby and there is a ton to look at!

Pavilion: I saw a pavilion, but it was not near the playground.

Picnic Tables/Benches: Picnic tables were close by in a shaded area and there are a few benches around.

Other: This was one of my favorite spots growing up. I know Auggie will enjoy to more in a few years, but for now, it just wasn’t baby appropriate. 

Long View Farms

Parking: The lot is close by, but could be full if there is an event going on at the house. 

Baby Friendly Playground: They have baby swings and soft ground covering. The playground is fairly small and not very popular with older children. It is usually very quite and peaceful. 

Walking Trail: They have several trails, some in the shaded and wooded areas,  and others in an open field. The trail also pasess by the horse field!

Pavilion: There is a small covered area by the stables, which is right next to the playground

Picnic Tables/Benches: There is some seating near the stables and a few benches near the playground.

Other: They have horses! Auggie was so excited to see live animals. You are able to watch the horse in the field and walk into the stables. Such an amazing experience! You do not need a stroller unless you plan on going for a walk. Everything is pretty close together.

Sugar Creek Park

Parking: The lot is close by, but can get very full on weekends or if there a party going on in the pavilion.

Baby Friendly Playground: This playground is my favorite! Not only does it have a baby swing, but it has tons of stuff for your babe to pull up on. Auggie loved crawling through the tunnels! Of course, they have a baby swing

Walking Trail: There is a small paved trail that goes through an open field and a wooded area. It is wide enough for one stroller and easy to access from the playground. 

Pavilion: One pavilion is located right by the playground. It is usually occupied on the weekend.

Picnic Tables/Benches: There are picnic tables under the pavilion. However, as mentioned above, they are usually in use during the weekend. You can find several benches around the playground.

Other: A tall sprinkler is on during the summer months and sometimes there a baseball game on, on the ball fields. This park is very close, so we go there often!

Twin Oaks

Parking: This is so tricky! The park is tucked away. You can park at Twin Oaks Church and walk down the steps (no stroller), or if you can find the super hidden side street, you can walk down the path (stroller). Either way is a bit of a trek with baby in tow!

Baby Friendly Playground: The playground is really cute! It has a baby swing and other fun activities for your babe to observe. Ground covering is padded so crawl away!

Walking Trail: Around the pond is a really pretty walking path. The circle is short, but you can make as many laps as you want. I used to walk here often when Auggie was first born. I would just keep going round and round until he for fussy and then.. time to go!

Pavilion: Pavilion area is close to the playground and the pond. This park is small and compact.

Picnic Tables/Benches: Yes and yes! Both are all around the park. Even around the pond, there are spot to sit. rest, or eat.

Other: Volleyball courts are in the park! Also, there is a huge open field, perfect for running around and active toddler.

Schroeder Park:

Parking: Tons of parking in available, but things can get full in the summer when the pool is open.

Baby Friendly Playground: The one downfall of this playground is that ground covering.... Woods Chips! They went right into his mouth. Despite that, the park has baby swing and other things for the little ones to ride in and bounce. They also have a large sand box... Auggie was not into it! 

Walking Trail: If you want to get a work out, this is your park. Although the trail is short, it is hilly! Your heart rate will be racing!

Pavilion: Several pavilions are available, but they are usually in use for a party. 

Picnic Tables/Benches: There are some picnic tables by the playground, not the pavilions. It is easy to find a play to eat or rest near the playground. 

Other: You can also find tennis courts, ball fields, and basketball courts in the park. The Manchester pool is also on the premises that has a great baby area.