6 Must-Visit Triangle Area Playgrounds

From dragon-guarded splash pads to nature-inspired hideaways, the Triangle is home to some of the most charming and adventure-packed playgrounds in North Carolina. If you're raising little locals or just visiting Raleigh, Cary or Apex with kids in tow, these six outdoor play spaces are well worth the stop. Each one offers something unique,  whether it's thoughtful accessibility, wild nature trails, or modern splash zones.

Here are six of our favorite Triangle-area playgrounds to add to your weekend plans.

1. Kids Together Playground at Marla Dorrel Park | Cary

This southeast Cary gem has earned its nickname “The Dragon Playground” thanks to Katal, a colorful mother dragon who peacefully watches over this fully fenced, beautifully shaded, and intentionally accessible wonderland. Designed for children and parents of abilities, Kids Together Playground features adaptive swings, ramps, sand pits, water features, and more. It’s the kind of place where an early morning outing easily turns into a full-day adventure.

Best For: Shady mornings, accessible play, imaginative adventuring

Don’t Forget: Water shoes, towel, bug spray and snacks

2. Hemlock Bluffs Nature Playground | Cary

Tucked within the Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in south Cary, this small nature playground is unlike any other in the Triangle. Built entirely with natural materials and forest themes, it invites kids to dig, build, balance, and climb using tree stumps, logs, and boulders. There are no plastic slides or metal swings here, just a peaceful woodland space that encourages exploration and imagination. Pair your visit with a short hike on the shaded trails nearby.

Best For: Nature-loving kids, quieter afternoons, forest magic

Don’t forget: Small backpack, water bottles, bug spray. 

3. Sassafras All Children’s Playground at Laurel Hills Park | Raleigh

Located in Laurel Hills Park in Raleigh, Sassafras is a sprawling, vibrant, and fully accessible playground packed with towering climbing structures, musical features, a zipline, and wide open spaces to run. The equipment spans a variety of heights and abilities, making it ideal for families with kids of multiple ages. The rubberized surface is easy on little knees, and there’s plenty of shade for summer days. Bonus: picnic areas and bathrooms are close by.

Best For: Big energy, inclusive design, and sibling-friendly fun

Don’t forget: Sunscreen & water. Shade is limited. 

4. Pleasant Park | Apex

Pleasant Park is one of the newest and most modern playgrounds in the Triangle. With bold, sculptural climbing elements, a massive rope tower, and a seasonal splash pad, this park feels like a futuristic play dream. There’s something for toddlers and big kids alike, plus paved trails, sports courts, and a shaded picnic area to round out the day. Go early or late in summer to avoid the midday heat — there’s less shade here than some older parks.

Best For: Modern play structures, splash pad fun, and wide open space

Don’t forget: Sunscreen & water. Shade is limited. 

5. Apex Community Park

Tucked beside a peaceful lake and shaded by tall pines, Apex Community Park is a local favorite that combines classic play with wide-open nature. The park features multiple shaded play zones including a traditional playground with (shaded!) slides, swings, and climbing features for younger kids, plus a nearby sports-themed obstacle course designed for older children to test their agility, speed, and strength. It’s a great stop for families with mixed ages and energy levels. Add in a paved 2-mile loop trail around the lake, fishing spots, and picnic areas, and you’ve got everything you need for a full day of outdoor adventure.

Best For: Shady playtime, active kids, and lakeside strolls.

Don’t forget: Water, snacks, sunscreen, and a scooter or stroller for the trail

6. Downtown Cary Park

Smack in the heart of newly-revitalized downtown Cary, this brand-new park features a beautiful, nature-themed playground with climbing towers (and climbing cardinals!), splash fountains, a large music pavilion, and a dog park. It’s ideal for combining with a trip to the Downtown Cary Library (they share a parking deck), or lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. There’s even a giant hammock and lawn space for post-play lounging. Pro tip: Try to come early or avoid weekends. It gets crazy busy, especially when city events are happening. 

Best For: Aesthetic fun, water features, and mixing playtime with shopping

Don’t forget: Sunscreen & water. Shade is limited.

Final Word

There’s something magical about finding the perfect playground that just works for your family, whether it’s fully shaded and fenced, rich with nature, memorable for your kids, or all of the above.

So grab your snacks, pack those water bottles, and let us know in the comments which of the Triangle's playgrounds and outdoor play spaces are your family's favorites!