Blackstone Park

Name: Blackstone Park

Location: 6094 WW. 16th St., St. Louis Park

Features: Play structure with three slides; climbing net and wall; toddler and kid swings; small seesaw and ladybug for riding; sandpit with excavator; spinning wheel that makes rain sound; adjustable basketball court, covered picnic tables with grill. 

I found this playground on Google Maps while Heidi and I were planning errands on a Sunday; we wanted a place where Harry could play for a bit between other business. It turned out to be a hidden gem, with lots of appealing features. 

The play structure was pretty standard, more elaborate than some and not as much as others. The core of it was easily accessible for a three-year-old, with steps leading up to the central platform. 

At the top there is a wheel that kids can spin, which uses little balls to make a sound like rain. 

It extends into climbing space for older kids, with a variety of features. 

The climbing wall is more appropriate for a three-year-old. 

Separate from the main structure were the swings... 

a little seesaw... 

and even this cute ladybug for riding. 

A covered picnic area, including a grill, means this place in my mind can be either a quick playground getaway or somewhere you can pack a lunch and stay for a while. 

There is also a basketball court with a hoop that can be adjusted for height, but I did not take any pictures because other kids were playing on it. 

-Nate (and Harry and Heidi)