For years, I have driven past the sign for the Lake Ida Park & Dog Park (just east of I-95 on Lake Ida Rd in Delray Beach), but I'd never checked it out. Maybe it's because I know people who take their dogs there to run and play, and for some reason, I just kept thinking it was just a dog park, and a dog park only.
Luckily, a friend invited us there to play one afternoon. I was so glad to learn it's more than just a dog park. It's actually MY new favorite park (oh, and all 4 kids like it too!).
There are boat launches, picnic pavilions, as well as paths for biking and jogging (as well as bathroom facilities - always a plus!). But there's also a great playground. When I find a playground that suits my younger 2 children, the older ones are usually bored. And when there's one that the older kids like, it's never appropriate for the little ones. What makes the Lake Ida Park playground great is that all 4 of my kids like it, and it's reasonably safe for even the youngest one. If you have a 2 year old (or younger), you're probably keenly aware of all the drop-offs and openings on many playgrounds. There's always a sign that says "Playground designed for children ages 5-12", but 2-year-olds can't read, and see the big playground as a source of great fun vs. danger. The Lake Ida Park is nice because there aren't any super-high spots that little ones can get to with a risk of a big fall. (Side note: When my oldest daughter was 3, she fell off a playground and broke her arm. Unfortunately, I witnessed the whole thing and couldn't catch her in time...so that's why I'm always worried about kids falling off playgrounds!)
Another note: the playground is considered barrier-free and fully accessible!
If you want to go to a safe and fun playground with kids who have a wide range of ages, then check out Lake Ida Park in Delray Beach!
