North Ryde Park

If you’re looking for a solid spot to throw a birthday party or just get the kids out of the house on a weekend, this one’s hard to beat. The xylophone is genuinely a hit — little ones will bang on it for way longer than you’d expect. There’s decent shade over the picnic tables and BBQ area, which matters a lot come summer. Older kids can kick a ball around on the soccer field while you actually sit down and relax for five minutes. A reliable local park that earns its reputation.