Today we’re taking a look at one of central Lakeland’s most prized public parks: Common Ground Playground.
Located at 1000 E. Edgewood Dr., this park is the first inclusive play experience park to come to Polk County. The free public park opened in 2009 after two Polk County mothers expressed a need for a park suited for any age or ability to Lakeland’s Parks and Recreation Department.
🧗 For the climbers and hikers
One thing you won’t find at this park? Signs reading “no climbing on the rocks.” In fact, Common Ground encourages scrambling up rocks with a rock area primed for climbing. The park also features a rock wall, rope ladder, and a rope net.
💭 For the dreamers
Common Ground Playground boasts a variety of play zones for kids to let their imaginations run wild, including Adventure Canyon, Fossil Beach, Butterfly Meadow, Spider Web Peak, Gopher Mountain, and Journey Plateau. Kids can also immerse themselves at the fire station-themed playset.
🏃 For the wild ones
In addition to slides, swings, a balance beam, and monkey bars, the playground also boasts wheelchair-accessible features. As an added bonus, certain areas of playground equipment are fenced in as a safety feature. Pro tip: send your kiddo rolling down the “grassy” hill made of artificial grass. No grass stains, here.
🎶 For the adults
Adults can also enjoy the grounds by hosting an outdoor party under the covered pavilions. The winding sidewalks and music playing throughout make it a good spot for a relaxing walk.
Heading to Common Ground this week? Tag us in your photos for a chance to be featured.