Penguin Park

Kansas City, MO (Northland)

Penguin Park is the most iconic and well known playground in the Northland, and is a serious contended for best park in the metro area. The park's namesake giant penguin has been in place since the 60s, meaning generations of Northlanders grew up playing here. What's truly amazing is that KC Parks and Rec has managed to keep the nostalgia while modernizing the park and adding all the features that make a great playground.

The eye-catching giant animals that make the park special are also play structures. The elephant holds up a large climber and slide, and the kangaroo actually has a small slide inside of it. While the penguin used to house a slide long ago, it is now closed off so that future generations won't have to endure the smell that it was once known for. Besides the animals, Penguin Park also has a variety of other top-notch equipment. The rope climber is similar to what you'll find at other new parks, but there is so much variety in the other equipment that it doesn't get overcrowded. There are other free-climbing elements, as well as three different merry-go rounds. For parents with younger kids, there is also an excellent toddler play structure and some smaller elements to keep the little ones engaged. What's really great about the toddler area is that it's separate from the big kids, but still very much in sight. This is a very easy place for families with kids of different ages.

The park has a big shaded pavilion with lots of picnic tables. From under the pavilion, you can easily keep an eye on the entire playground. I've actually brought my laptop and gotten work done under the pavilion while the kids play. There are also benches and picnic tables scattered throughout the play area, so there are plenty of places for parents and grandparents to sit. There are two bathrooms connected to the pavilion that are cleaned regularly and multiple water fountains.

Penguin Park is part of the Lakewood Greenway, which has paved paths that go through woods and around two small ponds. Recently the city has connected the trail system to the Chouteau Greenway trails, so this could also serve as a starting point for a nice family bike ride.

Penguin Park is a true destination playground and should absolutely be on every family's list of great parks to visit in the KC area!