With the weather being warm and sunny this week, let’s take a look at a few Hoosier hot spots for outdoor fun.
Unity Park at Blue Heron Park (405 Driftwood Court, Franklin 46131)
With a fully rubber surface, this park’s playground offers safe, easy access right off the bat. Wide ramping systems also lead to the playground equipment, which includes a wheelchair-accessible seesaw as well as accessible swings and spinning features with high-back seating and safety straps.
Westermeier Commons (920 Central Park Drive West, Carmel 46032)
Pictured above, this playground has ramps and rubber turf as well, but it stands out with three quiet, cave-like areas that provide a calming retreat for kids with sensory processing needs who may become overwhelmed while playing.
Freedom Trail Park (500 Deer Walk Trace, Westfield 46074)
Designed in collaboration with the Hamilton County Autism Support Group, this playground has an adjoining sensory garden with soothing wind chimes and pipes as well as vine-covered teepees for respite.
Murphy Aquatic Park (753 South County Road 625 East, Avon 46123)
Designed with accessibility in mind, this park boasts Central Indiana’s only fully ADA-accessible water playground. All of Murphy’s aquatic areas feature zero-depth entry for guests using wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Extra-wide ramps and bridges allow for smooth, safe navigation. In addition to accommodating wheelchairs, the park provides water wheelchairs onsite.
The park also offers accessible fun outside of the water with a dry playground that includes:
- Signs for non-verbal children
- Rest areas for children with sensory sensitivity
- A wheelchair-friendly merry-go-round
- Wheelchair swings
- Seated zipline
These are just a few of the many places where you can have fun in the sun!
Westermeier Commons image courtesy of carmelclayparks.com.
Freedom Trail Park image courtesy of visithamiltoncounty.com.
Murphy Aquatic Park image courtesy of visithendrickscounty.com.
Thank you for highlighting accessible parks! I’m curious, how do these locations ensure inclusivity for visitors with gd diverse needs? Also, did you consider featuring more activities available in the parks?
A few weeks ago, I took my son to a local accessible park, and it made all the difference for his enjoyment. It’s so great to see resources like gd this that highlight where everyone can have fun.