Ashburn Park
Dubbed “Dinosaur Park” by locals, kids of all ages will appreciate various features shaped like prehistoric creatures, among them an abundance of slides, tunnels, swings and climbing structures. There is plenty of open space for running around, plus short, shaded trails that provide the perfect place for a leisurely walk, or from which to throw rocks into the nearby creek. // 43645 Partlow Road, Ashburn
Chessie’s Big Backyard at Lee District Park
Chessie’s Big Backyard offers a huge woodland-themed playground for older children with oodles of slides, accessible ramps, tunnels and places to climb. The adjacent area for toddlers, whose ground is made of a soft rubber, features both a pirate ship and a lighthouse; shaded during the summer. Chessie’s Big Backyard is located next to the free Our Special Harbor sprayground and a charming Chesapeake Bay-themed carousel, both of which operate on a seasonal schedule. // 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
Fantasy Playground
Kids and adults alike will marvel at the castle-like design of this wooden wonderland. The ramps, forts, tunnels and slides lend themselves to imaginative play. There is a sandbox, swing structure and ample seating throughout, plus a shaded picnic pavilion. Due to the pebble-like ground, wearing closed-toe shoes is a must. // 12298 Cotton Mill Road, Woodbridge
Meadow Lane Park
Located in a residential area of Vienna, Meadow Lane Park is a preschooler’s delight. The park offers two main playground structures, swings, fields and a sandbox. Visitors say that one of the park’s best features is its variety of riding and outdoor toys, which were donated by area residents. Picnic facilities and restrooms are available on-site. // 400 Courthouse Road SW, Vienna
Tuckahoe Park
This urban gem is a great place for older children to swing, jump and climb. Unique features include an impressive rope spider web that stands 20 feet tall, a large disk swing, spinning structures and music makers. There is also a large playground complete with monkey bars, ramps and slides. // 2400 N. Sycamore St., Arlington
