All parents spend time planning and preparing activities to help their children grow emotionally, socially, and cognitively. Providing a variety of experiences helps introduce children to the world and allows them to explore different settings and situations.
When a family lives in a certain area for an extended amount of time, they’re often looking for new places, spaces, and activities for recreational family fun. The Gardner School of Blue Ash has been a part of the Cincinnati community as a trusted preschool partner for the past 14 years. Recently, we asked TGS Blue Ash parents to name their top five kid-friendly recreational spots near Cincinnati, and we’re delighted to share their responses!
Summit Park
For sunny days, there’s nothing like the beautiful 130-acre Summit Park. Perfect for a casual stroll or more intense activity, this park features easy walking trails, a natural playscape, a dog park, an observation tower, and a brand-new playground for little explorers. TGS Blue Ash parents love the many events hosted at the park, from free fitness classes to food trucks to concerts, as well as the annual Shakespeare in the Park performance.
Highfield Discovery Garden
One of the best things about small children is their belief in magic and mystery. You can encourage imaginative play through a visit to Highfield. The magic starts at the visitor’s center, which is built to resemble a fairy-tale cottage. One obvious attraction is the Wizard’s Garden, which inspires kids to make-believe and create imaginary stories and adventures. After playing pretend, don’t miss the beautiful Trolley Garden. It’s home to outdoor miniature trains that will fascinate children as it zooms passed them. The Highfield Discovery Garden has a family pass for $50 per year, and this includes free classes for children each week.
Smale Riverfront Park
The Smale Riverfront Park was built to allow Cincinnati residents to reconnect to the river through several play and exploration spaces. There are so many places for little ones in the redesigned park, including the Great Adventure Playground, several fountains, a carousel, and a labyrinth. Kids will find huge slides, splash pads, a suspension bridge, and more. Plus, children who love transportation will definitely enjoy the park’s unique location as they watch the barges and ships that pass nearby.
Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
At the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, you can introduce kids to both flora and fauna at the same time. Children love visiting their favorite animals week after week. Fiona the hippo is always a hit, and now there’s a new baby giraffe to visit. The zoo’s extended summer hours mean you can plan an evening visit when the temperature is cooler and nocturnal animals are beginning to stir. Every Thursday night in April, families can attend Tunes & Blooms, free concerts hosted in the blossoming garden. Let kids practice their dance moves in a truly beautiful landscape for an unforgettable night.
Kings Island
Kings Island amusement park is filled with exciting rides and unparalleled water play for summer fun near Cincinnati. If you have adventure seekers in your family who need the occasional spike of adrenaline, you’ll find it in spades at Kings Island. Soak City is filled with water slides for both younger and older kids. Planet Snoopy is specifically geared toward little adventurers and has been voted Best Kids’ Area in the World for the past 18 years by Amusement Today. It’s a sure bet for families with siblings of all ages, and as kids grow, they’ll gain access to new spaces and rides each year.
An Exceptional Cincinnati Preschool Experience
At The Gardner School of Blue Ash, and the newly added The Gardner School of Cincinnati, we pride ourselves on providing activities that keep children engaged in the learning process. Our degreed and highly qualified teachers are experienced in building and implementing curriculums that promote intellectual development and help prepare children for school. We also introduce children to a variety of enrichment activities, including baking, gymnastics, karate, art, and music. The Gardner School provides a joyful Ohio preschool experience for all our students. Schedule a tour today to learn more.