Swing High, Zip Fast: Most Adventurous Playgrounds Around Seattle
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Climb to the top and speed down the neon slide at Sprinker Recreation Center. Photo: Meredith Charaba
Sprinker Recreation Center, Tacoma
It’s the newest adventure playground around town. Sprinker Recreation Center added a huge playground in August 2024, ideal for thrill-seekers of all ages. A neon slide greets you at the entrance, but you have to climb to the top. Past the slide and rope climbing structures, a smaller play area invites kids to swing, jump, crawl, seesaw and spin (with more approachable structures for the younger crowd).
You’ll also find a bright, colorful splash pad beyond the playground, with multiple water activities — from water-spraying circles kids can walk through to water-dumping buckets on poles. The splash pad is open from May to September, weather permitting.
For older kids and adults, there’s a fitness court between the playground and splash pad. Scan the QR code for workout challenges.
Walk west across the lawn to Spire Rock for a bonus adventure. The rock formation is perfect for climbers of all skill levels. We saw experienced adult climbers and kids alike enjoying the rock, which is surrounded by shredded rubber mulch for cushioning. You can also head inside the rec center for an adventurous round of ice bumper cars (just book a reservation ahead of time!).
Location: Sprinker Recreation Center is located at 521 Military Rd. S. in Tacoma. The rec center has a large parking lot with plenty of spots.
Next stop: Othello Playground
