It is prime time to be outdoors in the south. The heat finally breaks, the sun is shining and the humidity is low. We are giving our top picks of area parks for your outdoor activities. Enjoy these parks with picnic lunches, bubbles, water guns, chalk and more. Many of these parks are the perfect spot to ride a bike, take a stroll, and enjoy the beauty of our area. We’d love to know which parks are your favorites! Send us an email at Tammy@FamilyandKidsGA.com!
Let’s Play: Park Edition
Columbus-area families enjoy a wide variety of parks and playgrounds — from newly updated spaces to neighborhood favorites. Here’s your guide to local spots, plus a few worth the short drive.
Bridging the Gap Playground 1700 Midtown Dr, Columbus
Designed for inclusion, Bridging the Gap welcomes children of all abilities with adaptive swings and accessible equipment for side-by-side play.
Britt David Park 5560 Armour Rd, Columbus
One of the city’s most popular recreation hubs, Britt David Park features expansive sports fields, walking trails, and a large playground. It’s ideal for families with multiple kids who need room to run and explore.
Columbus Botanical Garden 3603 Weems Rd, Columbus
For a quieter outing, the Botanical Garden offers scenic walking trails and vibrant blooms throughout the year. It’s a wonderful place to introduce children to the beauty of nature.
Cooper Creek Park 4816 Milgen Road, Columbus
Known for its tennis center and sports complex, Cooper Creek also offers a well-loved playground in a spacious, peaceful setting — ideal for relaxed afternoons outdoors.
Dinglewood Park 1660 13th St, Columbus
A longtime favorite that just got even better, Dinglewood now features a new children’s bicycle playground. Young riders can practice balance and coordination in a fun, safe setting.
Ellerslie Park 3280 GA-85, Ellerslie
Ellerslie Park offers two fenced-in playground areas that give parents added peace of mind. With abundant shade, scenic walking trails, and a large pond, it’s a beautiful spot for both active play and quiet nature moments.
Lakebottom Park & Weracoba Park 1505 Cherokee Ave, Columbus
Recently redone, this beloved park pair combines historic charm with updated features, offering walking paths, active playgrounds, and plenty of space for family fun.
Lakewood Park Bridgewater Drive & Park Drive, Phenix City
A peaceful neighborhood park offering a simple playground and plenty of room to relax. It’s perfect for low-key afternoons close to home.
Linwood Tillis Park 14th St, Columbus
This community park provides open fields and playground equipment where kids can burn off energy while parents catch up with friends.
Manchester Park & Ride 3690 Manchester Expy, Columbus
While best known as a commuter location, this spot also offers open space where families can stretch their legs and enjoy a quick outdoor break.
Martin-Idle Hour Park 3743 Moon Lake Drive, Phenix City
A neighborhood treasure with shaded play areas and sports courts, Martin-Idle Hour Park is versatile enough for both energetic play and relaxed gatherings.
Milltown Square 5350 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus
Slightly over a year old, Milltown Square features turf that keeps the space looking green and welcoming year-round. Its open layout and gathering areas make it a popular community meetup spot.
Phenix City Art Park 1400 Whitewater Avenue, Phenix City
Just across the river, this colorful park blends creativity and outdoor fun. Kids can enjoy open space while families admire artistic touches throughout the park.
The Park at Cascade Hills 982 56th St, Columbus
Tucked into a scenic setting, this park features inviting playground equipment and plenty of space for birthday parties, picnics, and nature walks.
Woodruff Park 1000 Bay Ave, Columbus
Recently redone, Woodruff Park offers refreshed play areas and welcoming green space, making it a bright addition to family outings downtown.
A Little Farther — But Worth the Drive
Ann Pearson Park 1420 Shelton Mill Rd, Auburn
Its new playground equipment and fresh layout make it an exciting destination for families looking to explore somewhere new.
Floral Park 600 Floral St, Opelika
Floral Park features new modern play structures and a welcoming community atmosphere — perfect for a fresh family adventure.
Hickory Dickory Park 1400 Hickory Ln, Auburn
This imaginative wooden castle-style playground has been recently redone, blending its beloved storybook charm with refreshed features that invite hours of climbing, crawling, and creative play.
Town Creek Inclusive Playground 430 Camellia Dr, Auburn
Designed so children of all abilities can play together, Town Creek’s modern and accessible equipment makes it a standout road-trip playground.
