There's no shortage of good parks in our area. But if you're looking for a fantastic park, in an amazing setting, with swings, a huge sandpit, and a cool {interactive} water feature, you're in luck because I am about to reveal a well-kept secret.
Every time I mention this park at a mom-gathering, the majority of those moms have never heard of or been to this park. Every time I go, there is hardly any other moms or kids there ... except for the ones I invite! Of course, a huge crowd gathered at this park for a 4th of July fireworks display, so I know it's not really a secret.
This week's Out & About is Sammamish Commons Park! If you haven't been, it's worth the drive and the walk to get there! This is by far my favorite local park, and I love it for so many reasons!
Do you remember the thrill of running through a backyard sprinkler? Well, I usually refer to the Sammamish Commons Park as "the Sprinkler Park" because it has a splash pad, which is absolutely perfect for the weather we've been having this past week! Push a button to activate the sprinklers. Stand back and watch as the kids go wild! Or take a run through yourself if you're feeling adventuresome!
The playground equipment isn't too high! Perhaps it's just me, but as a mom of an almost four year old, I can really appreciate a playground that offers a lot of climbing options without being overly high/dangerous. I am also thrilled to report that Sammamish Commons has four swings - two for big kids and two for little ones! And they seem well positioned for avoiding collisions. For kids who love to dig or make sand cakes or build waterways - isn't that ALL Kids? - there is a huge sand pit surrounded by rocks to climb over or sit on and a circular pebble pit - great for keeping the youngest ones semi-confined.
Honestly, I love everything about this park, but if I had to change anything, I would suggest a few more shade options and better bathrooms. There's a covered pavilion and a large tree directly in front of the splash pad, but that's about it for shade. There are two non-flush latreens - one on the walk down and another alongside the playground. They serve the purpose but could be better.
Essentially, there are two parking options. You do have to walk some distance to get to the park, but the scenery is amazing and unlike any other park around. To lessen your walk, don't take the trail from the library - it's long and winding and steep. Instead take 228th Avenue past City Hall and turn left on SE 4th Street and then another left on 222nd Place SE. Here you'll find a side parking lot. When you get out of your car, head to the left and down the hill.
What to Bring:
- a mode of transportation to get from the car to the park (a stroller or wagon); I don't recommend a bike or scooter simply because the return trip is uphill and kids are tired from playing.
- sidewalk chalk - there are tons of smooth surfaces for drawing!
- sand toys, shovels, buckets - bring enough to share
- sunscreen - remember there isn't a lot of shade here
- shoes good for running through water and towels - chances are your kids will want to run through the splash pad!
