Being outside is great, and doing things outdoors is part of my family’s lifestyle. Finding new playgrounds and parks and exploring new places is a regular activity in our home.
Spending time outdoors is one of the go-to self-care techniques, or as I like to call it, nature therapy. And being outdoors has many physiological benefits, for adults and kids.
If you’re on the look-out for a great outdoor space, park or nature area, be sure to check out some of my favorite go-to spots.
Favorite Outdoor Spaces to Play in OKC
Martin Nature Park
I love, love, love this place and so does my daughter. There are miles of trails that seem to always lead to something new to see, which keeps her exploring mind interested. Lots of big trees and shade. A cool treehouse. A red rock creek. And lots of birds, bugs, and a cool nature center to explore.
Scissortail Park
The new(ish) downtown OKC park features a brand new playground with climbing structures, a rock wall, sandpits, and water features. Plus lots of open green space for little legs to run (and get tired for nap time!)
Edgemere Park
Located in the Edgemere neighborhood, this park is surrounded by grass and trees with plenty of space to explore.
Sparrow Park
Close to Edgemere park and great for the little toddlers who aren’t quite ready for some of the bigger play equipment! I like this one because when my daughter was younger, I didn’t have to worry about her falling off a high playground structure.
Myriad Gardens
Beautiful walkable gardens, a magical children’s garden with a playground, a secret garden area, and an outdoor play kitchen. They even host outdoor storytime.
Hafer Park
This is farther north, but the scale of the park is big. There are a few different playground areas for really little kids to bigger kids. Plus lots of trees (shade, yay!), park benches, trails, a duck pond, and bathrooms (such a luxury for moms on-the-go outdoors.)
Will Rogers Gardens
Beautiful urban gardens with seasonal blooms and plants. There are magical fairy and gnome houses cleverly constructed throughout the park. Sometimes the inhabitants even make an appearance! My daughter loves climbing in the juniper trees, which are the perfect height for a toddler. Also, ducks, fish, turtles and lots and lots of space.
Memorial Park
Right near the Asian district (so get some pho on the way home), and has tennis and basketball courts and a soccer field. There’s a splash pad on during the summer, as well as pavilions for picnics.
Bethany All Abilities Park
Or as we like to call it, The Color Park. The colors on this playground are so bright and pleasant. There are cool outdoor musical instruments and lots of slides. AND it’s right by the library, so you can pick up some books or a to-go craft on your way home!
What are your family’s favorite outdoor spots in OKC??
The Bethany park sounds awesome but I can’t find an address – is there another name to search or an address?? Great list Susanne (& Gracie)!! 🥰
Opps! I can’t either. It’s right by the Bethany Public Library and that address is 6700 NW 35th St, Bethany, OK 73008. 🙂