Capital District Playground List
Put together by Katie
at www.capitaldistrictfun.com
and super-helpful Capital
District Fun readers all over the area! Are we missing a great one? Fill
out a survey here.
Birchwood elementary school
playground
897
Birchwood lane niskayuna ny, No
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Mixed, but my kids
like it.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really not
worth your time.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer: Slides get very wet
Signed: Annie
Buckingham Lakes Park
Berkshire
Blvd., Albany NY, www.buckinghampondconservancy.org/
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
No |
Grass/dirt |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip/AWESOME! GO NOW!! (2 votes).
If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the
street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: also a special needs swing Path is
gravel. Ducks and geese in lake. This is our
close by, go-to playground, so my kids love it. And all their little buddies
love it. And on warm, sunny days, it can get busy. So lots of kids love it. I'm
not sure I'd drive 10 miles (the survey asks) unless I was meeting friends
there, but it's a special place to us and lots of others.
It's the
kind of park you remember going to when you were a little kid--a beautiful
little place tucked into a neighborhood with a jungle gym, some swings, trees,
and the pond. You cannot beat how excited the kids are to see the ducklings
every Spring (a year or two ago we counted almost 30), adorable photo ops
there. Turtles sunning themselves on logs all summer long is also a big draw,
along with finding the monster koi fish on a hike around the pond.
Now that I'm
thinking of it and mentally going through my Buckingham photos over the years,
maybe I would drive 10 miles! You know, I think I would.--comments form
momxchange; it's the whole package--with playground, picnic tables, short
nature trail--something for everyone! --comments from Amy, Karen's sister
Signed: http://momxchangeblog.tumblr.com/post/507071667/mxc-does-buckingham-lake-park
& Amy< Karen's sister
Butler Park
Just past
Averill Park High School on Gettle Road, Averill Park, NY,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the
street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: This is a brand new playground (opened last year) with
a futuristic theme. I would say that quite a bit of the playground is for
the younger crowd (infant - 5 year olds), but that there is one structure for
older kids and that there are older kid swings as well. The older kid structure is different... a
slide without sides, climbing ropes, some crazy hoops, etc.
There are
plentiful infant swings, a firetruck twin slide and monkey bar set, a toddler
slide and bridge structure, and these fairly neat (and dirty) digging gravel
scoops.
I love how it is new (not falling part,
no splinters, etc.) and different than many other playgrounds out there. Its proximity to the high school could be
considered a detractor at school dismissal time.
Signed:
Castle Ridge Playground
The
playground is located at Latham Ridge School.
http://v4.cache1.c.bigcache.googleapis.com/static.panoramio.com/photos/original/46507208.jpg?redirect_counter=1
6 Mercer
Avenue
Latham, NY
12110
(518)
785-3211
Only open to
the public when school is not in session.,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Nope |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the
street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: It's a large wooden structure that has activites for
kids of all ages. Also, parents can fit in all of the tunnels (I did when I was
7 months pregnant) so you can play along with your child.
Signed: pumkingirl32
Castleton Elementary School's
Playground
80 Scott
Ave. Castleton-on-Hudson NY 12033,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Nope |
Nope |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It is not fenced, but there are fields surrounding.
More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground and surrounding fields
(tennis/basketball) are all brand new.
They were reconstructed when they re-did the elementary school. There are not picnic tables, but there is a
covered pavillion with built in benches.
As the playground is in the open sun, the pavillion provides a nice,
shady area to park a stroller. It's all brand new, within the past year. It's not the biggest, but it's not as crowded
as some we've been to. There could be
more for little ones, but hey, it is designed for an elementary school. For 3+,
it's great.
Signed: angelflute1978
Central Park
Fehr Road
& Ashmore Avenue,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
Yes |
Heck,
yeah! |
Yes |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
|
Yes |
|
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Windy, Too cold on cold days,
Cooler than other places on hot days.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed., Yikes, I'd be careful
of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: Picnic tables were available last year, but they
weren't out yet for the season as of mid-March. Ice Cream is
available when Mike's Casino is open.
There's a baseball field and a stage that's a short distance away. On weekends you can rent paddle boats for the
lake. A short walk away there's a rose
garden that my kids love to walk through. There's a
newer little kids' playground that's really nice. Across the parking lot is an "old
school" big kids' playground with lots of metal. There are often concerts and events here, so
if you're coming from far away, you might time it with something else going on
to make it more worth the trip.
Signed: Katie
Charlton Heights Elementary School
170 Stage
Road
Ballston
Lake, NY 12019, bhbl.org
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
1 vote Yes
+ 1 No |
No |
rubber
chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Mostly sunny..
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, 1 vote fenced, 1 vote near parking.
More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground is a cool maze/castle. It is new too! --Comment from Jess There is a
nice shaded pavilion for parent's to sit and watch. The park is enclosed and
has a wooden castle structure and very cool climbing structures or walking
structures.--Comment from Jenn D.
It's a great place for the kids to play
independently without too many worries. There is a nice area for lunch. The
only caveat is it is at an elementary school so use is after school
hours.--Comment from Jenn D. It is different from the usual playground and
changes things up for the kids for a day.
They can play hide and seek in the maze/castle. --Comment from Jess
Signed: Jenn D & Jess
Clifton Commons
County Road
90 & Clifton Common Blvd., Clifton Park, http://www.cliftonpark.org/townhall/parks-rec/
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Sheltered from the wind.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed., I'd be careful of the
cars--it's sort of near the street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: This is a wooden/tire playground. It's nicely enclosed, but it can be difficult
to keep track of your kids--it's really made for kids to move around in instead
of adults, and visibility can be poor.
I'm remembering as best I can with these
answers. The coolest bonus feature is
that the playground is right next to the ice rink, so sometimes there's a big
pile of icy snow in the parking lot in the middle of summer. The structures
itself give it a different "feel" from your average playground, so
it's a nice change of pace. In the
summer there are often shows or concerts nearby, so it's a nice destination for
a picnic night out.
Signed: Katie
Collins Park
Mohawk
Avenue & Schonowee Avenue, Scotia, http://www.townofglenville.org/Public_Documents/GlenvilleNY_WebDocs/geninfo
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Yes |
Sand |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..
More information from your friendly reviewer: Snacks aren't right there, but Jumpin' Jacks is right
across the street--basic fried food and soft ice cream. There are swimming lessons in the morning and
lifeguards in the afternoon at the lake beach. Much of the
equipment is new, so it's a good playground on its own, but its proximity to
the lake and Jumpin' Jacks make it a real destination. Bring sand toys.
Signed: Katie
Cook Park
Lincoln
Avenue & Shambrook Parkway, Colonie, http://www.colonievillage.org/youth/index.htm
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Yes |
Just
one/limited availability |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
Sand |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Cooler than other places on
hot days.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the
street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: I can't remember about the baby swings. There's a
fountain--not for wading in, alas. Also,
baseball diamonds. This is a shady park, and it's fairly small. But it's a great place for a pit stop if
you're in the middle of errands--there are picnic tables in the shade and a
bathroom, and it's not far off Central Avenue.
Better for younger kids.
Signed: Katie
Elm Ave Park
Bethlehem/Delmar/Glenmont
area. On Route 32 going towards Selkirk on the right hand side. 12054, http://www.townofbethlehem.org/pages/parkElm/parkElm.asp
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes, some |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Got 1 Yes,
1 No vote |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck, yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
2 votes, 1
wood chip + 1 sponge |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Windy.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: 2 votes, 1 Awesome! +
1 Really fun.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Mostly pretty
awesome.
If your child is a “flight risk”, 2 votes, 1 careful + 1 secluded.
More information from your friendly reviewer: The Elm Ave playground is an older large, wooden
structure. Lots of climbing opportunities! My son loves it, but I would love
for the Town of Bethlehem to build a newer style playground. Of course, the
pool area is the best thing in Delmar and it complete Very large
wooden playground!! Open fields to play
in very close to park area. Pool complex costs money but is WELL worth it for a
full day of swimming, diving and playing in the splash area! Porta-potty very
close to the playground large enough for a mom and child. Public restrooms in
park building not far from the playground. Pool complex has concession stand
and public restrooms as well as showers and changing rooms.-Comment from bmom Overall, the
Elm Ave park is awesome. The fields are plentiful and the hiking trail is
perfect for preschoolers. We LOVE the pool and spend every warm day there in
the summer. It truly is one of the best parts of living in Delmar.--Comment
from K
Signed: bmom and K
Empire State Plaza playground
Madison
Avenue and South Swan Streets, Albany, NY
(That's the
closest intersection, but you can't see the playground from there. In order to
find the playground, you need to walk into the Empire State Plaza, and then
head back toward that same corner. It's very hidden. Look for a large metal
cube sculpture, or ask someone with kids.),
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Nope |
Nope |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
That new
spongy playground surface stuff |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really not
worth your time.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's not fenced. Kids can run off -- but they'll still be in
a park/pedestrian plaza area, not anywhere near traffic..
More information from your friendly reviewer: A bunch of slides. No swings. Equipment is mostly for
younger kids. A nice playground. Nothing fancy, but a fun place to
play hidden away in the city.
Signed: downtownMama
Eunice O. Esposito Park
From Curry
Road (near St. Gabriel's Church), turn onto Fayette Drive. The entrance to the
park will be on your left.
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Just
one/limited availability |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Mixed, but my
kids like it.
If your child is a “flight risk”, .
More information from your friendly reviewer: The Eunice O. Esposito Park has received major
renovations to provide for a safe environment and a more user friendly park.
The park has an expanded parking lot, two tennis courts, new playground
equipment, a pavilion, full court basketball court, bocce b I would give
this playground an "awesome" rating when there are softball games
going on because it is more lively and you get some entertainment, concession
stands, etc.
Signed: Jbutterfly
FANS (Friends and Neighbors of
Ballston Spa) Playground
39 Ralph
Street
Ballston Spa,
NY 12020,
http://www.fansofballstonspa.org/
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Nope |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
That new
spongy playground surface stuff |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Too hot on hot days, Nice and warm
on cooler days.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: .
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..
More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground has some interesting fort structures,
swings and whole separate enclosed area for toddlers. The creek runs
right next to this playground with lots of places to explore. I hear folks swim in it in the summer! We liked it
because it was new to us. The kids loved
the different things available in the playground structure. My son loved the fields where he and dad
played baseball while we all had a picnic.
The creek was also a HUGE hit.
That's too many bests, huh?
Signed: Cheri
Hillside Elementary Playground
1100
Cornelius Avenue, Niskayuna,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Nope |
Nope |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Windy, Too hot on hot days.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the
street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: There's not even a bench, so bring picnic blankets or
camp chairs. This is a school
playground, so it's not available during school hours. Bathroom's at the school, so availability
depends on if it's open. There's an uninhabited "bus loop" right next
to the playground if you want to bring bikes. The equipment
is new and includes a wavy "group see-saw" thing that I've never seen
anywhere else. This neighborhood is
walkable, which means there's usually at least a couple of people here (which
is fun), sometimes unsupervised groups of big kids (less fun). This is not a very toddler-friendly park, but
it's great for the elementary school set.
Signed: Katie
Imagination Station at Shaker Road
Elementary
512 Albany
Shaker Road, Albany, http://www.southcolonieschools.org/ShakerRoad/index.cfm
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
Nope |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
I don't
remember--maybe wood chips? |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Sheltered from the wind.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed., It's so secluded that
the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer: This is one of those all-wood playgrounds. It's at an elementary school, so you can't go
while school's in session & bathrooms aren't available unless the school
happens to be open. Wood playgrounds are a change of pace, and also, it's
a fun playground pretty close to the Crossings.
So if you schlep all the way to the Crossings and it just looks
completely overrun with children, keep on drivin' over to this one!
Signed: Katie
Indian Meadows
Glenville,
on the way to the YMCA.,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
no |
Yes |
|
|
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, .
More information from your friendly reviewer: Tall, terrifying slide that some kid broke his leg on. If you walk
through the hiking trails toward the Y, you'll find a stage and other stuff
that they use for team building. The
kids love to hike and then put on shows.
Signed:
Knickerbocker Park
103rd Street
& 8th Avenue
Troy, NY, http://troyny.gov/recreation/knickerbackerpark.html
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Nope |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, There's a fence that's usually closed..
More information from your friendly reviewer: The playground is great for small kids. Bigger kids might get bored there, but enjoy
the ice rink or other sports stuff.
Best: It's in the Lansingburgh
neighborhood of Troy, so it's generally not too busy.
Worst: It's
in the Lansingburgh neighborhood of Troy, so it can get a little sketchy.
Signed: Erin
Maria College Campus Preschool
700 New
Scotland Avenue, Albany 12208, on campus of Maria College, behind college
buildings,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Yes |
Nope |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Grass/dirt |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Too hot on hot days.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, No Worries! It's fenced
& always super-secure.
More information from your friendly reviewer: age appropriate for preschoolers, swings, slides,
small rock climbing wall, etc it is fenced in, off the road it is not a
"public" playground and those who have attended the Maria college
campus preschool currently and past years tend to use it most. if you want to
check it out, go now as the preschool will be closing its doors for good at the
end of this school year after 44 years!
Signed: amy, karen's sister
North Bethlehem Park
Russell Rd
Albany, NY
12203
Near the
North Bethlehem Fire House on Russell Rd, http://www.townofbethlehem.org/pages/parks/parkNorthBethlehem.asp
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
|
Yes |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer:
Signed:
Ridgefield Park
At the end
of the 700/800 block of Park Ave (Albany). Ridgefield St, Myrtle St, and
Partridge Streets border it.,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Grass/dirt |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really not
worth your time.
If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the
street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: Smalll neighborhood park in the Pine Hills in
Albany. Most people who use this park
are within walking distance. It's a good
park for the under 4 set. The jungle gym
is small but manageable for a young toddler.
In July and August there are sprinklers It's mainly
a playground for those who can walk to it.
The kids all tend to know each other since we all live in the
neighborhood. We go all the time because
it's a very short distance to our house.
Signed: Mandy
River Road Park
Niskayuna,
River Road, not sure
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Just
one/limited availability |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer: Great for ages 2-5; has a special needs swing
Signed:
Riverside Park (I've always called it
Front Street Park)
Front Street
& North Street, Schenectady,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Nope |
Nope |
No |
No |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Grass/dirt |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Shady all the time, Windy, Too cold on cold days,
Cooler than other places on hot days.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Mixed, but my
kids like it.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's pretty close to the water--does (s)he know how to swim?.
More information from your friendly reviewer: This is an old playground with a nice variety
including some "old school" big kid climbers. This park is
right along the river, so the best part about it is that it's great for
transportation enthusiasts. On a good
day you can see boats along the river, trains on the bridge, and airplanes
about to land at Schenectady airport.
The pool isn't right next to the playground, but it's a very short
walk. It's a public pool run by the Y
(assuming there's funding this year!)
It's a great hot-day playground. If you like to play tennis, the court is
right next to the playground. Sometimes
kids will bike or scooter there, too.
Signed: Katie
Rosemont Park
92 Rosemont
in albany - near western and brevator,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck, yeah! |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the
street/parking lot., there is a fence on the busier Brevator side of the park.
More information from your friendly reviewer: There is a merry go round, several slides, a splash
pad in the summer, and several large play structures. For the older kids, there
are basketball courts and tennis courts.--Comment from Jukeybee. Has the big
toddler/special needs swings--Comment from bus Best
thing--close by and large variety of equipment. Also, the splash pad is major
fun. Worst is that it's a bit spread out. Play structures are far apart.
Thought that can be good for lots of running around. Also, it's one of the few
parks in the area I've seen that has a merry go round.--Comment from Jukeybee.
Its open grassy area allows free play and the playground equipment is slightly
spread out - more opportunities to run off energy. Best thing is that the city
has been adding new features over the last 6 mos. worst - only has street
parking (no lot)-- Comment from busy preschoolers mom
Signed: Jukeybee and busy preschooler's mom
Rosendale Elementary
2445
Rosendale Road, Niskayuna,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's near the parking lot, but the parking lot's generally
not too busy..
More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground is in great shape....lots of fun
things for the kids to climb on, including a small rock wall. It's large enough for the big kids to enjoy,
but has some nice features for the little ones too. --Comment from Jen O. Bathrooms at River Road There are
swings for children with disabilities. -- Jen O. This is a great
playground! Climbing walls and all sorts
of slides, tunnels and climbing equipment as well as swings. Also there is a great shaded pavilion in the
middle with 4 picnic tables so you can
watch the kids play all around you.
There is plenty of parking along the side. Also, if you are up to it there is a short
trail that leads you to the river road park which is a great little park too
(with lots of other amenities).
--Michelle There is a covered picnic area that is in the middle
of the playground. It's nice because you
can sit and relax and see the kids from almost anywhere on the playground.
--Jen O. The best for me is the pavilion with shade for hot sunny days. You can bring a snack or lunch and eat in the
shade and then go on playing. Also
really like the trail to the other park.
We usually do that and get a little exercise. Plenty of fields to run around in too. It is next to a parking lot...but if you have
a runner all the other directions are safe with lots of fields. It's not on the street or anything which is
nice. --Michelle
Signed: Jen O.
Schodack Island State Park
1 Schodack
Way
P.O. Box 7
Schodack
Landing, NY 12156
Phone: (518)
732-0187,
http://nysparks.state.ny.us/parks/146/details.aspx
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
Nope |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Awesome! GO
NOW!!!.
If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the
street/parking lot., close to parking lot, but it's usually not a busy one.
There's time to rescue..
More information from your friendly reviewer: There's no swings, but honestly I like it that way. I
want my kids to run around and get tired, not to be on a swing the whole time
with me having to push them. ;-) There's no pond, but there is the Hudson River! The
boat launch is right there and you can watch the boats sail the Hudson. It's a
beautiful view. The Hudson River. It's so nice to be so close and see
all the boats. If you're lucky and catch a boat docking the kids usually love
it! The view really is just beautiful. But the playground is not right next to
the river so you don't have to worry about kids running off and drowning. You
have to cross the parking lot and walk to get to it.
Signed: Jedimama
Shenantaha Creek Park
Eastline
Road in Malta, http://www.malta-town.org/cit-e-access/webpage.cfm?TID=44&TPID=5150
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's pretty open so you will be able to see where your child
went and it's set way back from any road..
More information from your friendly reviewer: Many, many picnic tables. Two large pavilions,
barbeque grills, tennis and basketball courts, bike path. Lots of room to run
around and trails to explore. We had our son's first birthday party here and it
was a huge success. Equipment is in good shape and The wide
open spaces for running around, mixed with lots of trees for shade, plus nature
trails to explore AND a playground with available picnic tables and bathrooms
make this one of our favorite places to go. Shenantaha Creek park can keep a
toddler entertained for a good long time!
Signed: Rachael
Tawasentha (Guilderland Town Park)
1/2 mile
from intersection of Western Ave (Rt. 20) and Rt. 146 in Guilderland, http://www.townofguilderland.org/Pages/GuilderlandNY_Recreation/Tawasentha%20Park%20Description
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck, yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
Yikes--got
one No, one Yes |
|
|
Sand |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Mostly shady, Sometimes a little buggy!.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: 2 votes, 1 Awesome! +
1 Really fun.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, Pretty far from the parking lot.
More information from your friendly reviewer: The sandy surface provides lots of opportunity for
digging and building. Large and small
climbing areas makes it for fun for multiple age children. A neat walking path
along the creek is a great side adventure. --Comment from MomofThree They have a bigg You could
spend the whole day here if you are truly an outdoor enthusiast. Playground is fun, but the whole park is just
beautiful. Lots of picnic areas, sand
volleyball courts, pavillion for shelter, etc.
Just don't forget the sand toys and to shake out the kids shoes before
you get back in the car!! --From MomOfThree We love the playground, there's a
volleyball net, bridge to look at the pond, and nature hikes, baseball
field.--From Betty
Signed: MomOfThree
The Crossings
Albany
Shaker Road, Colonie,
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Yes |
Yes |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
|
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
That new
spongy playground surface stuff |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Mostly sunny..
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Awesome! GO
NOW!!!.
If your child is a “flight risk”, I'd be careful of the cars--it's sort of near the street/parking
lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: There is also a maze. It has
something for everyone. The only thing I
don't like is that the gate is open, and the playground part of the park is
right next to the parking lot.
Signed:
Turtle Town at Shaker Road Elementary
When facing
the school, it is opposite the Imagination Station, to the right of the school., N/a
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Nope |
Nope |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
That new
spongy playground surface stuff |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really not
worth your time.
If your child is a “flight risk”, No Worries! It's
fenced & always super-secure.
More information from your friendly reviewer: Tire chips provide cushioning, kids love the dome! Great low-key
playground, benches available for parents. Its a couple
of years old, never crowded!
Signed:
Vale Park
Franklin
Street & Nott Terrace, Schenectady, http://www.valepark.org/
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Nope |
No |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade, Cooler than other places on
hot days.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer: The equipment is pretty new. There are one or two places where a toddler
could fall far, so if you have someone whose mobile & unsteady, check it
out first. There's a large pavilion with
picnic tables. This is a huge, woodsy park in the heart of
Schenectady, and it's also connected to a cemetery, so it's really interesting
for a walk. People fish in the stream,
although if you want to avoid the water, it won't be obvious unless you leave
the playground area to take a hike.
This playground is not well-known, and
it's fun and in a BEAUTIFUL setting. The
one drawback (besides the lack of bathrooms) is that it's both remote-ish and
in the middle of the city, so it can feel unsafe if you're on your own. This is one I go to when a couple of moms are
meeting up together.
Signed: Katie
Voorheesville Elementary School
Across from
Smitty's Tavern on Maple Avenue in Voorheesville, right on your way to Indian
Ladder farms. When you make the right hand turn towards the apple orchards the
school is directly on your left. Park in the visitor's lot, cross the covered
bridge over the creek and you will see the playground!, no
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Yes |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
|
Weather conditions at this playground are: A mix of sun and shade.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Awesome! GO
NOW!!!.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground offers something for every age. It is
wheelchair accessible. There a swings for infants, special needs children and
typical children. There are at least 3 slides, 2 twisty (one is covered), and
two straight slides. There are tire ladders a I love that
it is so large and there are things for all ages and abilities. My daughter
always finds other children to play with there. It is great that someone who
may be of a higher skill level than my daughter, she is 3, can do there own
"high level" task while still playing with my daughter. Every thing
is connected so the children can play the who can go the furthest without
touching the gravel game!!!
Signed: Irishmom to APP
Washington Park
Washington
Park, Albany, NY, http://www.albany.com/HotSpot_Washington-Park.cfm
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Yes!
Plentiful & Lovely |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
|
Yes |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Windy.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Really fun &
worth a trip.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really fun
& worth a trip.
If your child is a “flight risk”, Yikes, I'd be careful of the cars--it's VERY CLOSE to the
street/parking lot..
More information from your friendly reviewer: There's a new section as well as more "old
school" metal equipment over grass.
Pretty statues and big amphitheatre. Tennis courts aren't close to the playground
at all. People in the 'burbs shy away from this playground, but it's frequently
easy to park, and it's a worthwhile stop if you're nearby, and it's definitely
worth a trip if something special is going on, like when the tulips are out or
when there's a show at the Park Playhouse.
Signed: Katie
Whitehall Park at Albany School of
Humanities
124
Whitehall Road, Albany, New York 12209, http://albanyny.gov/_files/Recreation_facilities.pdf
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Nope |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
No |
Grass/dirt |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time.
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Fun.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Really not
worth your time.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's so secluded that the kid can't get anywhere, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer: This playground also has special needs swings. It has two
sets of playgrounds, one for schoolage and one more for preschool age. I think it's a
great neighborhood playground that is best on non-school days or after-school
hours. I do wish there was a bathroom or
portapotty or more benches/tables.
Signed: AlbanyMommy
Zoller Elementary School
1880
Lancaster Street, Schenectady, http://www.schenectady.k12.ny.us/zoller_elementary_school/index.htm
Bathrooms? |
Picnic Tables? |
Baby Swings? |
Snacks? |
Fields? |
Hiking Trails? |
Paved Bike Paths? |
Pond/Stream? |
Pool/Sprayers? |
Basketball? |
Tennis? |
Surface? |
Just
one/limited availability |
Yes |
Nope |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Heck,
yeah! |
No |
Wood Chips |
Weather conditions at this playground are: Sunny all the time, Picnic tables are in shade..
If you live nearby, the overall rating is: Awesome! GO NOW!!!.
If this playground’s a trip for you, the overall
rating is: Fun.
If your child is a “flight risk”, It's surrounded by fields and the streets are quiet, anyway..
More information from your friendly reviewer: There are a couple of unusual hand-pump style
swings. Lots of
ramps/bridges/slides. It's an elementary
school, so you have to go when school's not in session, and there's only a
bathroom available if the school happens to be open. This is in a
nice, quiet neighborhood, so it could piggyback onto a little bike ride. This is a nice
playground that's usually pretty quiet.
Signed: Katie