10 Cool Playground Equipment Designs That Will Keep Kids Active and Engaged

Explore different creative playground equipment ideas that push the boundaries of traditional play with Zoom Recreation!

Exercise is a pivotal aspect of children’s development. It nurtures mental well-being, and physical health, and elevates social interactions. 

In today’s world, it can be difficult to get kids outside because of technological distractions like phones, social media, video games, and television. 

However, with innovative and creative advancements, playgrounds have never been more fun! Elevate your playground design with these 10 cool play equipment ideas.

1. Themed Playground Equipment

Themed playgrounds are an excellent way to make playtime more creative, imaginative, and exciting. Kids can immerse themselves in their own creative worlds; whether it be pretending to be a train conductor, or a sailor lost at sea. Themed playgrounds also have educational benefits; historical and scientific elements can be implemented into the playground design to make learning fun! 

Playground Equipment Design
Barn Themed Playground

2. Merry-go-round

Merry-go-rounds were created in the late 1800s, making it a classic playground essential. Different elements can be added to give the classic design a modern refresh. These rotating platforms often feature colorful seats or animals that children can sit on while the merry-go-round spins around a central axis. Merry-go-rounds have been a staple of playgrounds for generations, offering a mix of fun, physical activity, and social interaction.

3. Musical Instruments

Musical playground instruments are a delightful addition to play areas that combine the joy of outdoor play with the magic of music. These instruments are designed to be both fun and educational, allowing children to explore the world of sound and rhythm while engaging in physical activity. Musical playground equipment includes drums, chimes, bells, and musical pipes. This type of equipment boosts creativity, fine-tunes motor skills, and helps with early cognitive development. 

Playground Equipment
Musical Playground Equipment

4. Sensory Playground Equipment

Sensory playground equipment is designed to engage and stimulate children's senses while they play, promoting sensory exploration, cognitive development, and overall sensory integration. These playground components offer a range of textures, sounds, colors, and movements that cater to various sensory preferences. This type of playground equipment comes in the form of texture play panels, sensory walls, balance beams, and reflective play surfaces.

Playground Design
Sensory Wall

5. Tube Slides

Tube slides add an element of adventure to a traditional playground slide. These slides consist of enclosed tubes or tunnels through which children can slide from an elevated platform to the ground. Tube slides can be completely enclosed and have twists and turns, creating a thrilling sliding experience. 

6. Playground Climbers

Net climbers are great for stimulating and challenging the older age groups, from 5 to 12 years old. It maximizes a play space – some playground climbers are able to hold up to 107 kids! These climbers are popular amongst kids because each and every one of their friends can play on the structure at the same time. They also are great for building physical strength and boosting kids' confidence.

Fun Playground Equipment
Playground Climber

7. Splash pads

Splash pads are perfect for parks in California and Arizona, offering a refreshing and engaging way for kids to stay active during hot weather. Splash pads, also known as water play areas, are outdoor recreational spaces designed to provide children with a safe and enjoyable water-based play experience. Unlike traditional play equipment, splash pads feature a variety of interactive water features, fountains, and spray jets that allow children to cool off, play, and have fun in a controlled environment. 

8. Rope Courses

Rope courses can be an enticing addition to a park or school. You can choose from a plethora of different designs that twist, turn, rise, and fall — or create your very own custom adventure course design. Rope courses are one of the most engaging types of playground equipment and offer a unique experience each time it is used. 

Fun Outdoor Playground Equipment
Rope Course

9. Spinners

Spinners are dynamic and interactive pieces of fun playground equipment designed to provide children with exhilarating spinning experiences. These spinners offer a unique way for children to engage with their environment, promoting physical activity, sensory exploration, and social interaction. Spinners come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different age groups and play preferences. There are spinners that fit one child, multiple children, and inclusive spinners that cater to children with varying physical abilities. 

10. Treehouses

Treehouse playground equipment is designed to mimic the charm and adventure of real tree houses while providing a safe and imaginative play environment for children. These structures are built to resemble treehouses, complete with platforms, bridges, climbing elements, and creative play spaces. Children can bring their fantasies to life by exploring, climbing, and creating their very own stories. 

Contact us today to get started on creating Your Unique fun playground design!

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Zoom Recreation strives to create efficient recreational spaces and provide exceptional customer service. Superior awarded us their highest President's Award and Gold Club Awards two years in a row.

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As the exclusive representative of Superior Recreational Products in your local area, Zoom is committed to recommending, providing and installing only the top products for all our customers.

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