It is really hot. Our backyard thermometer read 104 today. Mac Kid has been begging to go to the pool and the heat is making us all a little cranky. At the suggestion of a mom at the farmers market, we set out to try out some local spray parks. Turkey Ticket was the first on our trip. It did not disappoint.
Located at 1100 Michigan Avenue, NE, there is a whole lot going on at Turkey Thicket. No matter what the ages of your family members, you will find something to do. First off, parking was more than ample. We went just before noon on a Sunday and the playground was not crowded at all. There were three separate playground areas and the water area. These are all far enough from the street that there was no worry about a kid darting out into the street. All of the play areas are on spongy cover that doesn’t hurt as much when a kid falls.
The spray park was adorable. There was a lighthouse with a penguin face on it and a little boat that kids could sit in. Kids of all ages would be comfortable and safe sitting on the ground and playing with the water spouts. There were also a few different areas where water was spraying up from the ground. Mac Kid told us that the water was soft when it came out of the ground. There were also spouts that would spray water down.
The playgrounds had so many great features. One question that I often see in a popular mom list serve is where to find a playground with swings. This playground has the swing jackpot. All of the swings were in excellent condition and there were two swings that could accommodate kids with disabilities. They had the spongy cover under them and when we went, there was always a swing available.
There were also places for kids to climb, hang, and swing. The cutest of these was a big toy train that had a few cars for kids to climb all over. There was a mushroom type play structure that Mac Kid liked to hang and spin on.
In addition to the playground there were tennis and pickleball courts, a basketball court, a baseball field, and a track complete with exercise stations and even an elliptical trainer.
There were trees for shade and plenty of green space which looked like the perfect spot to have a picnic. There is also a pavilion and picnic tables to enjoy a meal or a snack. In addition, there was also the bonus of a community garden that you could walk through. Mac Dad had never been that close to corn growing. He was so excited to see it.
There really was something for everyone at the park. Even a seat for mom so that she could write while the kid played. This is truly a gem and a free one! We are excited to go back in the winter and see what the indoor area has to offer.
