The Best Parks and Playgrounds in Los Angeles

A trip to the park offers so much from exercise to imaginative play, a chance to make new friends, and of course, time away from screens. Not to mention, they’re free! There are dozens of amazing parks and playgrounds in Los Angeles, but if you’re wondering, what’s the best playground near me? We’re here to help.

Before you plan your next park playdate, check out some of our favorite Los Angeles playgrounds. 

Shane’s Inspiration

The idea behind Shane’s Inspiration was to create a safe environment for all kids to play and have fun. Built in 2001, this famous Griffith Park playground was the first inclusive playground in the Western United States. The park’s foundation, Inclusion Matters, has since erected dozens of inclusive playgrounds across Los Angeles and the world.

With a sprawling play structure, zip-line, musical instruments, and other interactive elements, it remains one of the best playgrounds in Los Angeles. It’s also just steps away from the Griffith Park Merry Go Round and the Old Zoo, offering plenty to do for a day of family fun. 

Address: Griffith Park 4800 Crystal Springs Road, Los Angeles 90027

Roxbury

With lush, sprawling grass and plenty of shady trees, Roxbury is easily one of the best parks in Los Angeles for packing a picnic and whiling away the day. 

Besides the greenery, there is plenty to do to keep your energetic tykes active. The park features two large playgrounds, long walking paths, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, and more. Picnic table areas with barbeques are available for rentals, making this an excellent spot for an outdoor birthday party. The park is also home to a Community Center offering kids’ classes and family-friendly events.

Address: 471 South Roxbury Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

Polliwog

Extending across 18 acres, Polliwog Park stands out as the largest park in the South Bay area and an excellent choice for outdoor fun. Playground areas include slides, tubes, sandboxes, and three spaces specifically for younger children. 

Best part? Wildlife thrives in the park. With turtle-filled ponds and a botanical garden, there’s plenty for young nature lovers to explore. 

Address: 1601 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Looking for more playgrounds near Manhattan Beach? Check out our guide to the best parks and playgrounds in the South Bay.

Tongva

Blending playtime with aesthetic appeal, Tongva Park is truly one of a kind and one of the best parks in Santa Monica. 

Tongva Park features play areas with climbing structures that mimic sculptures, slides and rock wall climbing built into a hillside, splash pads, lush landscaping to explore, and an incredible view of the Santa Monica Bay. 

Address: 1615 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Anthony C. Beilenson

Also known as Lake Balboa Park, this gorgeous Los Angeles park has a huge playground area for children, including tunnels and jungle gyms, all well-shaded from the hot San Fernando Valley sun. 

Surrounding the massive playground are walking and biking trails and a sprawling lake perfect for bird-watching and fishing. Paddleboats are available to rent and bikes, including four-wheel tandems the whole family can ride together.

Address: 6300 Balboa Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91406

Kenneth Hahn

Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area extends across 401 acres, making it one of the largest parks in the city, aside from Griffith Park. 

The park includes four extensive playground areas and inspiring features, like the Japanese garden and Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. Memorial. You’ll also find hiking trails to explore, lakes with fishing, soccer and baseball fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and more. All with an unparalleled, breathtaking view of the city.

Address: 4100 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90008.

Chatsworth South

Tucked in the far west end of the San Fernando Valley is a unique playground surrounded by the rocky peaks of the Santa Susan Mountains.  

The park features two inclusive playgrounds. Designed for older kids, one play area includes several large climbing areas, a zip line, and interactive elements. Tucked behind the rec center, which is home to an excellent summer camp program, is a smaller playground perfect for toddlers and smaller explorers. The park grounds also include picnic areas, walking paths, and horse trails.

Address: 22360 Devonshire St., Chatsworth, CA 91311

Reese’s Retreat

Sail across the seven seas at Reese’s Retreat, a pirate-inspired playground for kids that want to find a lost treasure. Designed as universally accessible by the team behind Shane’s Inspiration, this is yet another Los Angeles park that’s inclusive, safe, and fun for all kids.

Address: 360 North Arroyo Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91103

Do your kids have a favorite park we missed? Let us know what you think is the best park in the L.A. area in our Facebook group for parents like you.

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