“Play Smart” Playground

If you’ve got a toddler and you’re tired of crowded parks, this little spot in Waterloo is worth knowing about. It’s geared toward the 2-6 crowd, so the scale of everything actually makes sense for little kids. The neighborhood is quiet enough that you’re not constantly watching for traffic, and there’s a basketball court nearby if older siblings or parents need something to do. Pack a lunch — the picnic tables make it easy to stretch the visit out. Best part? It’s completely free.