Discovering the Magic of Coffman Park: A Playground Paradise for Kids

Get ready to have a blast at Coffman Park – one of our absolute favorite parks around! This gem of a park boasts not one, but TWO amazing playgrounds that are both unique and super fun. Located right next to the Dublin Rec Center, all you have to do is turn right (not left) when you visit the Rec Center and voila! You’ll see the parking lot on your right just around the corner.

But that’s not all – this 105-acre park is steeped in history and culture. It was once the farm of Fletcher Coffman and his wife, Marinda, one of Dublin’s first settlers. Their house, built between 1862 and 1867, still stands on the land and now serves as home to the Dublin Historical Society. And let’s not forget that Coffman Park is also an art gallery and the grounds for the famous Dublin Irish Festival.

But back to those playgrounds – they’re not to be missed! And with amenities like basketball courts, bocci, fishing, ice skating rinks in the winter, grills, public art, recreation paths, RESTROOMS (always a plus!), shelters/gazebos, tennis and volleyball courts, Coffman Park truly has something for everyone. So pack a picnic, bring your friends and family, and get ready for a day of non-stop fun at Coffman Park!

FIRST PLAYGROUND

Get ready to be blown away by the first playground you’ll encounter when you turn into the park – it’s simply AWESOME! And the best part? It’s shaded to perfection, making it the ultimate spot to cool down on a hot summer day. But what makes this playground truly unique is that it’s built right into the woods, so you’ll feel completely surrounded by nature as you play and explore.

Hold on to your hats, folks – this playground has not one, but TWO epic sections that will keep kids of all ages entertained for hours on end! As you approach the playground, the first thing you’ll notice is the larger climbing structure designed specifically for older kids. With slides, unique climbing structures, a plastic rock wall, and more, this area is sure to get their hearts pumping and their imaginations running wild.

But wait, there’s more! Just behind the bigger climbing structure, you’ll discover a toddler-friendly area that’s perfect for little ones who want to join in on the fun. This section is thoughtfully spread out and features a charming little house, a tunnel to crawl through, swings, two unique toys that spin and rock, a giant buzzing bee, and more. While the area is pretty flat, there are a few stairs, but fear not – they’re not too steep for those little legs to handle. So come one, come all, and experience the fun-filled magic of this amazing playground!

SECOND PLAYGROUND

Ready for even more playground fun? Then take a short stroll from the first playground and you’ll find yourself at the second one in no time! Just follow the path towards the tennis courts, passing the parking lot where you parked your car. As you make your way around the gazebo and bathroom area, keep an eye out for a small bridge in the distance. And as soon as you turn the corner, you’ll be greeted by the park – you seriously can’t miss it! And don’t worry about moving your van, there’s parking right next to the playground for added convenience. So what are you waiting for? Let’s go check it out!

I think this playground is VERY toddler friendly. From the easy-to-climb structures to the little musical area that’s just the right height for their little hands, this playground is seriously toddler-friendly. And while there are a few slides that will bring big smiles to their faces, I did keep a watchful eye on my girls and didn’t let them climb up alone. Now, I’m not usually a super helicopter parent (okay, maybe sometimes), but there were a few spots where a fall wouldn’t be ideal. But don’t worry, there are railings on the side to help keep them safe. Other than that, I felt confident that there was plenty for them to do independently. So bring your little ones and let them explore this amazing playground to their heart’s content!

BONUS PARK FEATURE

Psst, I’ve got a little secret to share with you – just across the field from the second playground lies a delightful little creek! A friend of mine tipped me off about it, so I came prepared with towels and backup clothes, just in case. Consider this your heads up, too! 😛 Now, I should mention that I’m not entirely sure about the rules of getting in the creek, so you might want to double-check before you jump in. But if it’s allowed, it’s sure to be a refreshing and fun way to cool off on a hot summer day. So pack accordingly and let the adventure begin!

With plenty of wide-open green space to run, dance, and play in, this park is a paradise for energetic toddlers. And the best part? The open space is perfect for those fast little legs – by the time they head towards something they shouldn’t, you’ll likely be able to catch up in a flash. So let them burn off that energy and enjoy the beauty of nature all around them.

Coffman Park – 5200 Emerald Pkwy, Dublin, OH 43017