Mingo Park Wooden Playground and Pavilion

The wooden climbing structure here is the real draw — it’s got enough going on to keep kids busy for a solid afternoon without them doubling back on the same thing twice. This is a good spot for the 2-12 crowd, with enough challenge for older kids but nothing too gnarly for the little ones. The pavilion has plenty of picnic tables if you’re coming with a group, and the basketball court and open grass field give older kids somewhere to burn off energy while parents settle in on the benches. Being right near the forest trails gives the whole place a quieter, more laid-back feel than your typical city park. Locals know it — but it doesn’t get overwhelmed.