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6 Great Parks and Playgrounds in Grand Rapids

Parks and playgrounds we love in the Grand Rapids Area

By Loreale Mckinley April 4, 2022

We are lucky in Grand Rapids to have so many great playgrounds and parks to explore. From swings to slides, to climbing walls and water features, Grand Rapids parks and playgrounds keep my kids active, are a great place to meet old friends (and make new friends!), and they're FREE!

I often get asked what our favorite playgrounds are, so I thought I'd share here with you my family's picks for our top five playgrounds and parks to visit in Grand Rapids.




Credit: City of Grand Rapids


Wilcox Park

1561 Robinson Rd SE, Grand Rapids 49506

What we love about Wilcox Park: 

What I love about Wilcox Park is the central location and it is so close to shops and restaurant. 

Amenities at Wilcox Park

  • Tennis court
  • Soccer field
  • Splash Pad
  • Enclosed shelter
  • Basketball court
  • Picnic tables

Credit: City of Grand Rapids


Ah-Nab-Awen-Park

220 Front Ave. NW, Grand Rapids 49504

What we love about Ah-Nab-Awen-Park

Ah-Nab-Awen-Park is great because it is downtown and by the water. This park is great for picnics, date night in the summer overlooking the water, and a place to come  come and meditate early in the mornings if your into that kind of thing. 

Amenities at Ah-Nab-Awen-Park

  • Restrooms
  • Free Public Wifi
  • Picnic Area
  • Events

Credit: City of Grand Rapids


Huff Park

1500 Aberdeen St NE, Grand Rapids 49505

What we love about Huff Park: 

Huff park is one of my kiddos favorite. He loves loves the unique play structure they have. Huff park is a great place to take evening walks since they have a boardwalk and trail. 

Amenities at Huff Park: 

  • Grills
  • Restrooms
  • Walking Trails
  • Picnic shelter and tables
  • XC skiing
  • Ball diamond


Credit: City of Grand Rapids


Mulick Park

1632 Sylvan Ave SE, Grand Rapids 49506

What we love about Mulick Park

Mulick Park is one of my favorite parks because you can frequent all year long. They have a great hill for sledding and on those really hot days the kids can enjoy the splash pad. 

Amenities at Mulick Park: 

  • Sledding hill
  • Splash pad
  • Restrooms
  • Parking
  • Picnic tables
  • Tennis courts


Credit: City of Grand Rapids


MacKay-Jaycees Park

2401 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids 49507

What we love about MacKay-Jaycees Park: 

If your kids love slides they will love this park. They have a unique slide that looks like its made of out metal chimes. It's very roomy so mom and dad can have a turn too! 

Amenities at MacKay-Jaycees Park

  • Parking
  • Free public wifi
  • Picnic shelter and tables
  • Volleyball court
  • Basketball court
  • Outdoor exercise machine
  • Grills
  • Restrooms
  • Shade areas
  • Walking trail
  • Soccer field
  • Ball diamond


Credit: City of Kentwood

Pinewood Park

1999 Wolfboro Dr SE Kentwood, MI 49508

What we love about Pinewood Park: 

The city for this park is Kentwood but, it's in a great location for those whole live on the border of Grand Rapids and Kentwood. What I like most is that it is tucked away in a neighborhood. I find peace knowing we don't have to worry about card when my toddler takes off running. The playground is large and for kids of all ages. 

Amenities at Pinewood Park: 

  • Ball field
  • Tennis court
  • Splash pad
  • Gaga ball
  • Picnic shelter 
  • Soccer field
  • Restrooms
  • Basketball court
  • Skate ramp
  • Picnic tables

We hope this list of top six playgrounds and parks in Grand Rapids helps you find -- or rediscover! -- some fun places for your family to explore. Now get those kids out to play!