Outdoor playgrounds are such a great option when it comes to kids’ fun: they can play for hours, use their imagination, make friends, run around, and there’s no admission fee!
In addition to traditional play structures, many playgrounds feature splash pads for hot days, as well as nature play areas for children that encourage exploration. The Steel City is also home to many of these inclusive playgrounds, providing plenty of family fun, educational opportunities, and more.
We’ve created this ultimate guide of the best parks & playgrounds in Pittsburgh for you to choose where your kid’s going to have a blast next. Take a look and find the perfect place for you and your family to enjoy some quality time together.
Top 12 Parks & Playgrounds for Kids in Pittsburgh
1
Blue Slide Playground
This Pittsburgh playground features play structures for kids of all ages, but the main star in this playground is the big blue concrete slide that is built right into the hill. There are many other play structures, which are separated by age and ability level, such as tunnels, swings, a Toddler’s Area, a large climbing pyramid, and more. It’s also a nature play area for children, and features a picnic area.2
Anderson Playground
Anderson Playground, a.k.a. Dinosaur Playground, features two dinosaur-shaped structures, shaped playground castles with lookout towers, a merry-go-round, a drawbridge, and plenty of green space to run around. The dinosaur structures offer two slides, one for older children and one for younger ones. This makes it a standout destination for toddler-friendly parks & playgrounds.3
Aspinwall Riverfront Park
When looking for parks & playgrounds in Pittsburgh, consider the Aspinwall Riverfront Park. Its star feature is the famous bronze sculpture slide. This art installation in which kids can spend hours sliding and playing is located in an 11-acre park that is home to a walking trail, native gardens, free ice-skating in the winter, and so much more!4
Highland Park Super Playground
Kids will find so many ways to play in this amazing wooden playground! It’s filled with winding paths, a tire bridge, monkey bars, balancing platforms, swing sets, and more! With a covered picnic area and outdoor fitness equipment, it's a great option for nature play areas for children.5
Kids Castle
Kids Castle is another one of the best parks & playgrounds near Pittsburgh. Little queens and kings will have a blast with its many attractions! It features three themed areas with classic and modern playground equipment, including climbing areas, swings, riding animals, a rock climbing wall, and many activities!6
Wiltshire Park
Wiltshire Park is among the best parks & playgrounds with splash pads. It is filled with swings, slides, tunnels, horizontal rings, a merry-go-round, and bar climbers. Kids can also run around and play on the big open space, where adults can chill or enjoy the basketball courts, hiking areas, and walking path.7
August Wilson Park Playground
Thanks to its many play structures, parents will consider it one of the coolest toddler-friendly parks & playgrounds in Pittsburgh. There is an amazing view of the Allegheny River and plenty of space for seating. Kids will have a blast playing at this castle with slides, a climbing net, monkey bars, and climbing structures.8
Wightman Playground at Wightman Park
With multiple climbing nets, castle structures, slides, tunnels, and more, the Wightman Playground is an awesome option when it comes to outdoor fun! This is an accessible playground with wheelchair-accessible features, making it a standout destination for parents searching for inclusive parks & playgrounds in Pittsburgh.9
Black and Gold Playground
The Black and Gold Playground has many cool features, including double-wide ramps, handlebars, swings, and many other interactive and accessible features, which makes it a great park for special physical needs kids and kids of all abilities. The playground is surrounded by picnic areas for the whole family to have a nice break time!10
War Memorial Park
The War Memorial Park is a great option alternative for shaded parks for kids. It features the Hoey’s Hideaway Playground designed for kids ages 5-12, which features a rock climbing wall, a zip line, and more fun features, and a smaller playground for kids ages 2-5 that includes a train-themed play structure as well as swings and spring-mounted animals. Kids of all ages will find something to enjoy at War Memorial Park!11
Blueberry Hill Park’s Blueberry Patch Playground
Blueberry Hill Park is a must-visit when looking for a park & playground near Pittsburgh. It features sand volleyball courts, volleyball courts, and more play areas. The Blueberry Patch Playground boasts a roofed sandbox in which kids will play as if they are on the beach with beach toys and pails! You will also find slides and swings, as well as climbing structures, and more.12
Oblock Playground at Boyce Park
All ages and abilities can enjoy this playground! The features can be accessed by wheelchair, and it features a soft rubber ground and swings with high backs and harnesses. You can also find picnic tables and plenty of green space! Keep this in mind if you're looking for inclusive parks & playgrounds in Pittsburgh!Excited to plan a new activity with the kids? Playgrounds are a totally great idea. With thrilling slides, imaginative climbing structures, open green spaces, and shaded picnic areas, they offer something for everyone. These places are ideal for burning off energy, encouraging outdoor play, and spending quality time together in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
When you’re ready for more excitement, explore Pittsburgh’s top laser tag arenas, bowling alleys, and mini golf courses. From indoor thrills to Pittsburgh’s best parks & playgrounds, the perfect day out is just around the corner!
