The question I get asked most about parks…where are the shaded playgrounds?! Sadly, there just aren’t that many and with the Colorado summer heat, it can be tough to find good places to play. A few tips from our years of park hopping:
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Address: 8181 Yarrow St, Arvada, CO 80005
Not only does Rainbow East Park have some nice shade from the surrounding trees, it is also one of my favorite themed playgrounds! An adorable jungle theme runs throughout the play structures. A jungle cat lies next to the slides, an alligator tries to catch you as you walk the balance steps, and an elephant trunk slide join the gorilla below in completing the adventure.
Address: 1600 Caria Dr, Lafayette, CO 80026
One of the absolute best parks for shade is Waneka Lake Park in Lafayette. The play area has separate structures for young children and older kids making it a perfect place to meet a group of friends.
Waneka Lake is also wonderful because of the actual lake! There is a nice walk around the lake, with fitness equipment along the way, and there are many rentable items for enjoying the water. According to the City of Lafayette website, “the Boathouse at Waneka Lake Park offers various watercraft rentals, including paddleboats, kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Only watercraft rented at the boathouse are allowed on the lake.”
Address: 600 Collyer St, Longmont, CO 80501
Calling all train lovers! The wonderful extra at Collyer Park, aside from the shade, is that you can see real trains roll by while playing on the train play structure!
This playground is best for ages 2 to 8 as there are not many elements for the older ages. There are slides, swings, climbing opportunities and train-themed fun at Collyer Park.
Address: 6545-6599 Dover St, Arvada, CO 80004
Another shaded playground great for younger ages is Ladybug Park in Arvada. As you can see from the photo below, the playground is split into a few sections and there is great shade around all.
One section has nature-themed elements with logs and boulders to climb, another section has a cute ladybug bouncer with red and black spotted rubber surfacing, and the third area has swings.
Address: 701 S Franklin St, Denver, CO 80209
This Denver playground is a local favorite and had to be added to the list! Washington Park is a beautiful oasis in the city with two lakes and a lot of green land to enjoy. This play area is located in the middle of the park and has a natural feel throughout.
The most shaded areas are the large sand play section and the wooden climbers shown below. This is a well populated park so you’re sure to meet some new friends when you visit.
Address: 101-199 1st Ave, Niwot, CO 80503
Niwot Children’s Park has been a favorite to recommend for years! Yes, it has shade, but it also has restrooms, a giant mammoth, and a zipline. There is an adorable story time area so it would be a great place to read a book together or bring out a picnic!
If you want to explore more of Niwot, take a walk through the shops on 2nd Avenue or plan a visit on a Thursday night to enjoy a concert across the street at Whistle Stop Park! Here is the lineup planned for 2024: https://niwot.com/rock-rails/.
Thanks for joining us at Slides & Sunshine. Now it’s time to get out there and PLAY!
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