When you think of “things to do with kids in Columbus,” your mind probably goes straight to the zoo or COSI. And while those are awesome (shoutout to the manatees), sometimes the best adventures are the free ones… like running wild at a playground.
As someone who proudly holds the title of Uncle of the Year (self-appointed and currently under protest by my brother, but still), I’ve been on a mission to find the best playgrounds in Central Ohio. And by “mission,” I mean chasing my two-year-old niece around while she climbs, slides, and occasionally (very often) eats mulch.
Here are our picks for the top 5 craziest, coolest, most adrenaline pumping playgrounds in the Columbus area.
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1. New Albany-Plain Local Schools Campus Playground
📍 177 North High Street, New Albany, OH 43054
Best for: Kids of all ages who love variety and climbing
This spot is like three playgrounds in one. Seriously. The whole campus blends together into a giant outdoor playworld, and it’s a blast watching kids sprint from the tiny toddler areas to the massive 20-foot-tall DNA tower like they’re in their own mini amusement park. There are climbing areas, swings, seesaws, and way more than you’d expect to find at a school campus. When they designed this playground, it’s evident they clearly knew how to keep kids busy (and uncles entertained). Plus there are two large, covered pavilions for picnics or to just get out of the sun.
2. Blendon Woods Metro Park
📍 4265 E. Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43081
Best for: All abilities and tall green slides
The Metro Parks really outdid themselves with this one. The inclusive playground at Blendon Woods is designed so every kid can play, explore, and climb to their heart’s content, no matter their ability level. There are sensory play areas, adaptive swings, communication devices to help nonverbal kids talk, and ramps everywhere. But let’s be real… I’m making a beeline for that big green twisty slide in the back. My niece and I love a little bit of thrill attached to our fun. If you’re looking for a beautiful and inclusive space where everyone can join in on the fun, this is it.
3. RO Park
📍 6804 Snapdragon Way, Lewis Center, OH 43035
Best for: Kids who want a huge slide (and uncles who aren’t afraid of heights)
This is where things get wild. RO Park is home to the tallest slide permitted in the state of Ohio, and it is no joke. It’s like they ripped this out of my childhood dreams in the best way possible. There’s also a full park with baseball fields, trails, a tessaract-looking jungle gym, and a huge shelter area, so it’s easy to make a full afternoon out of it. But let’s be honest, we’re all here for that slide.
4. Highbanks Metro Park
📍 9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035
Best for: Classic playground vibes with a side of forest adventure
Highbanks Metro Park is already a favorite for hiking and nature watching, but deep in the park is an underrated playground that deserves more attention. It’s got everything you’d want: climbing structures, monkey bars, and yes, more awesome slides. What I love most is that once your kid burns off their playground energy, you can go straight into exploring the park’s many trails, hills, and scenic overlooks. There’s even a zip-line at the nearby Big Meadows picnic area! A win-win for the whole family (or for one tired uncle who needs a break).
5. Blacklick Woods Metro Park Canopy Walk
📍 6975 East Livingston Ave, Reynoldsburg OH
Best for: Treehouse lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone who wants to feel like they’re in an Ewok village
Is it technically a playground? Not exactly. Is it absolutely amazing and full of adventure? 100 percent yes. The Canopy Walk at Blacklick Woods is a massive treehouse-style jungle gym that soars 40 feet above the ground. There are cargo nets to climb, fire poles to slide down, rope bridges to wobble across, and even hammocks to chill in a cool 3 stories above the ground. It’s part jungle gym, part nature walk, and totally free to explore. Bonus points for being stroller and wheelchair accessible thanks to the elevator tower. This place is straight-up magical.
Final Thoughts
My niece may only be two, but she’s got great taste in playgrounds (and a need for speed when it comes to slides). These are just a few of our favorite spots around Columbus where you can have fun and burn some energy, kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re a parent, an aunt or uncle, or just someone who enjoys an elite slide every now and then (no shame), these playgrounds are worth checking out.
Let us know which one your kid (or your inner child) loved the most.
Did we miss one? Send us a note!