When I had a toddler and newborn in tow, it would take us up to 20 minutes to get out the door sometimes! Because it took so much time and effort to get out of the house, I wanted to make the outing “worth it,” by being gone for more than just 30 minutes or so. One of the best ways to do this was visiting parks with stroller-friendly trails, so I could easily add a second part onto our adventure. Other benefits: I didn’t have to put the kids back in their car seats, my son would often sleep so I could get some easy 1:1 time with my daughter, and I could get some exercise myself.
Four Playgrounds with Adjacent Stroller-Friendly Trails
Throw your stroller in the trunk, and take the kids to these parks for a 2-part outing.
Each of these trails meet the following criteria:
- Stroller-friendly
- Walks are less than 1-mile roundtrip
- Routes are loops and virtually impossible to get lost
Bryan Park
With a shade canopy over the playground, Bryan Park is an excellent choice when taking children out during summer months. Not only does the playground have an array of features suitable for babies through tweens, the loop around the lake is scenic and perfect for a post-playground walk. If you want to add more fun, pack a picnic and blanket and have lunch on the fields or in one of the covered pavilions.
Rockwood Park
Rockwood Park‘s sandbox and tandem swing make it a popular spot for young families. The paved loop is a favorite for stroller-walking because there’s so much for kids to see. From the dog park to a pit stop at the nature center to see snakes or turtles, this is one adventure that will leave your kiddos both fulfilled and tired.
Twin Hickory Park
Featuring a covered picnic pavilion, splash pad, and playground with shade canopy, there is already so much to do at Twin Hickory Park. But, adding a walk on the paved loop can take you from the large playground to the smaller tot lot, or alternatively, to the Twin Hickory Library.
R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks
Starting at the parking lot, head to the first playground, which is geared towards older children. Continue on the path to the nature themed playground. When you’ve finished at this playground, follow the trail to the floating dock through a freshwater tidal marsh and then back up to the playground. R. Garland Dodd Park at Point of Rocks is a unique experience, and my children love it!
We love to see families exploring RVA! Tag us in your family’s summer adventures @rfmtoday!
