Bardon Park Playground

If you’re after somewhere to take the kids that doesn’t feel like a carpark with some swings bolted in, this Maylands spot is worth knowing about. There’s a zipline that the 5-to-10 crowd absolutely lose their minds over, plus slides to keep the littler ones busy while you actually get to sit down. Shade trees and covered seating mean you’re not baking in the sun while you watch them, and the BBQ and picnic tables make it easy to stretch a visit into a proper afternoon out. It sits near a lake, so the setting feels calm rather than chaotic — quiet neighborhood, not a lot of through traffic, parents can keep an eye on things without running themselves ragged. Parking’s straightforward and the walking path gives you something to do once everyone’s eaten.