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Adventure Playgrounds

Sometimes tires and pieces of wood beat out the latest jungle gym. These six play spots encourage imagination and hands-on creativity.

By Rebecca Etter

Berkeley Marina in Berkeley, California.

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ARKANSAS


Peabody Park

North Scott Street, Little Rock, AR
Not only is this park equipped with underground tunnels, a tube slide, a climbing wall, a splash fountain, and a space net, it also has elevated pavilions that help you keep an eye on your kids while staying out of their way.

CALIFORNIA


Berkeley Marina

160 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA
Although this playground is one of the oldest in the United States (opened in 1979), it's not old-fashioned. Along with all the adventure-playground standards, you'll find a zip line and a painting area.

Central Park

7111 Talbert Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA
Hammer, saw, climb, and even build a raft at this playground next to a pond. Just remember to bring an extra set of clothing because of the water and the mud.

University Community Park

1 Beech Tree Lane, Irvine, CA
If the cargo nets and waterslides aren't enough to entertain, check out all the classes offered, such as tool safety and outdoor cooking.

MARYLAND


Germantown Playground

17920 Germantown Park Drive, Germantown, MD
It's a bit on the small side, but this location has plenty of imagination-sparking materials—including a curved climbing wall.

NEW YORK


Adventure Playground at Central Park

68th Street & Central Park West, New York, NY
This northernmost playground in Central Park is extremely popular during the weekend, so hit the sandstone fortress and climbing pyramid early in the morning.

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