Kiwanis Park – A Nature Inspired Kids’ Oasis

The great outdoors, even in the winter months, is the best place for kids to play naturally, invent their own games, and explore the world around them. Beginning on December 13, kids can seek, find, and enjoy the nature-inspired playground amenities at Kiwanis Park. The newly renovated Park, 1700 Lincoln Avenue at Orchard Street, has a compact, Continuous Play playground designed for children ages 5-12. “The unique design of this neighborhood park makes it a destination for families year round,” said Paul Cathey, Superintendent of Parks and Planning for the Des Plaines Park District.

Two tree house structures with a “built-by-kids” feel, anchor the new play equipment and are connected by a variety of climbing apparatuses including a horizontal ladder, pod climbers, and a catwalk climber. The tree houses are perfect for “kids-only secret meetings” and have swoosh and swirl slide exits. Adjacent to the structure is a Peak Natural Climber, a smaller scale version of Jaycee Park’s Pointe, that looks and feels like a real rock. The park also sports a log balance beam, the first of its kind in the District. The beam not only challenges kids’ ability to balance, but also provides an opportunity to problem solve for a path choice. Two log and two mushroom steppers have been installed in varying heights that encourage kids to climb with courage, test their endurance, and develop their coordination and balance. A Kids Cabin, set just off the connecting path that runs through the park, makes a perfect clubhouse, hideout, or fort.

Kiwanis also has a new swing set with four swings: two belt, a bucket, and an ADA accessible swing all set on a wood fiber surface that is clean, cushioned, and absorbs impact. A new picnic gazebo with two tables makes the perfect gathering place for families.

“Kiwanis Park has a half acre footprint. We wanted a play structure with features that would provide neighborhood children with an exhilarating aerobic workout, as well as encourage a creative, social experience. This playground is a kid-inspired oasis and it’s open, snow or shine!” said Cathey.

For information about winter classes, programs, and events at the Park District, and to see all the amenities at your neighborhood park, visit www.DPParks.org or call 847-391-5700.