I thought this would be a great overview of the Metro Parks we’ve visited that lets you explore through a few pictures. If you want all the details and pictures(because I like to give a 360 degree view), click the link. We’re so lucky to have all of these within a short drive. We love the Metro Parks, enjoy!
In no particular order…
Walnut Woods Metro Park
6723 Lithopolis Rd. Groveport
I enjoyed the surronding trees in the playground and my girls enjoyed seeing the dogs play nearby. There was a hill to climb and see the park and open space to run!
Tall Pines
6833 Richardson Rd. Groveport
Just down the road…
This was a longer trail, but so worth the views! We took the stroller since it’s a 2.6 mile loop. There was one small section that was gravel, but our little wheeled stroller worked ok. Our next visit, we are bringing our bikes. It will be beautiful with the changing leaves in Fall.
There are two tall pines sections in the trail. There was a small natural play area. And my girls enjoyed seeing the sun evaporate the dew from the grass in the morning. They had a port-a-potty at the entrance of the trail.
See everything for the 2 above here…
Pickerington Ponds
7680 Wright Rd, Canal Winchester, OH
A great little walk and view of the pond. A cute mural and plenty space for a picnic. Binoculars are a fun add.
Glacier Ridge Metro Park
9801 Hyland-Croy Rd. Plain City
I have a super climber, well, let’s just be honest, I wanted to experience it. You must go!
Along with these Ninja Warrior obstacles, there is a nice little playground. There are picnic pavilions and a bathroom. I will warn you, this Metro Park is out there and with it comes more insects. The ticks can be abundant. So, please make sure you check yourself and kids before you get in the car to leave.
This lookout is on the other side of the park. We’re going to head back once it gets warmer as there wasn’t much to observe in winter. I’ve heard the sunsets are beautiful!
And playground
http://www.cbus4kids.com/glacier-ridge-plain-city-playground
Slate Run Metro Park Playground
1375 St. Rte 674 North
We love the farm and ventured to the playground for our day trip. It’s a climber’s playground for varying ages and also has a standard toddler playground and swings galore.
And
Slate Run Historical Farm
A working farms with lots of animals and a farmhouse to explore. A swing on a tree and old time games to play.
Scioto Grove Metro Park
5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City
This is a ninja warrior’s climbing dream. I may have almost had a heart attack watching my 4 year old live her climbing dreams. It also has a nice overlook trail with ponds and bridge.
Rocky Fork Metro Park
7180 Walnut St. Westerville
This was a nice surprise for a more natural playground. It’s surrounded by woods and it truly takes you away from the hustle and bustle. There is a paved path and a grass path through a meadow.
Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
1775 Darby Creek Dr. Galloway
A live stream to explore inside and the bison are close enough to get a quick view without freezing. A super cool tunnel under the fish tank. And interactive stations to learn a lot!
Scioto Audubon Metro Park
400 W. Whittier St. Columbus
I was not expecting such an awesome time at this park. There are challenging obstacles, the park is surrounded by nature, and it’s a great place to observe rock climbers.
Highbanks Metro Park
9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center
One of our all time favorites. The nature center has a puppet stage, a hut, and lots of interactive play. And a giant tree to walk inside.
And
Blendon Woods Natural Play Area
4265 E Dublin Granville Rd. Westerville
I love playgrounds that are in nature and incorporate natural elements. It’s geared towards kids that are a little bit older than my kids(2 and 4), but they were still able to have fun too. There are also some playgrounds at Blendon Woods too.
And check out the nature center too! The volunteers are the best.
Inniswood Metro Gardens
940 S Hempstead Rd Westerville
Lots of nature integrated into the play areas, including stepping stones through the frog bog. A secret garden with a vine tunnel and a crane fountain. And an awesome tree house and wobbly bridge. The trails here have nice wide paths and boardwalks. And the flowers are the best!
Blacklick Woods Nature Center
Drive to the back of the park. Take a short walk on the path to the nature center. Be prepared for some happy kids! There are tons of walking trails here too. We like the shorter boardwalk trail loop that’s right beside the nature center.
Edward S. Thompson State Nature Preserve
@ Sharon Woods Metro Park
1069 W Main St. Westerville
This Nature Preserve has nice wide paths and a variety of environments. We loved the surprise creek last summer. And the pond at Sharon Woods is close to the trail, great for watching ducks and fishing. We also enjoyed reading the signs about the areas as we hiked.
Homestead Park
4675 Cosgray Rd. Hilliard
This park is huge! The variety of play structures and imaginary options are great. A small nature center, meadow, pond and train too!
