About Olive Jones Park
Olive Jones Park offers a thoughtfully designed outdoor space catering to a wide range of children's ages within a city setting. Its unique value lies in providing two distinct, yet connected, play areas – one securely enclosed for toddlers and another with varied equipment for older kids and middle schoolers – all within a larger fenced perimeter. The ample open space encourages energetic play, making it ideal for families seeking to burn off energy in a safe, accessible environment without cost.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families with children of varied ages (toddlers to middle schoolers) who can play simultaneously in appropriate areas.Parents looking for a free, active outdoor play option in a city location near AFCH and S Park St.Kids who need to burn off significant energy, with ample space for running, climbing, and ball games.A quick stop before or after a Badger football game to let kids get energy out.Playdates for multiple families, with different areas catering to different interests.
Why families love it
- Features two distinct, connected playgrounds: an enclosed area specifically for toddlers with black metal gates, and a 'wide open' playground for older children.
- The entire park area is large and fenced in from the streets, providing a significant safety measure.
- Includes a large blacktopped area suitable for active games like tag or basketball, connecting to the main playground.
- Offers a very climbing-oriented jungle gym, appealing to middle schoolers and older children (ages 8-10 were pleased).
- Provides multiple single benches (5+) and a couple of picnic tables for parent seating and eating.
- Dual-zone playground design (toddler and older kids) that are connected yet distinct.
Insider tips
- **Bring your own water bottles and snacks** due to the complete lack of drinking fountains.
- **Plan for restroom breaks before or after your visit** as there are no bathrooms at the park.
- **Consider visiting outside of 3pm-3:30pm on weekdays** if you prefer to avoid the after-school program crowd, although they are well-monitored.
- Utilize the side street parking; it's reported as easy access.
- Take advantage of the varied play zones if you have children across different age groups, as they connect.
Good to know before you go
- Families who require on-site restrooms or drinking water for their children.
- If you prefer an entirely private or secluded play experience during peak after-school hours (3pm-3:30pm on weekdays).
- If you anticipate a lengthy stay and cannot manage without hydration or restroom facilities.
- There are NO BATHROOMS or DRINKING FOUNTAINS available on-site, which is a major drawback for families with children.
- Can experience crowds from an after-school program (approx. 20 kids, 3rd-5th grades) between 3pm-3:30pm on weekdays.
- Crowds
- Can experience moderate crowds from an after-school program (approximately 20 kids, 3rd-5th grade) between 3pm-3:30pm on weekdays. These groups are reported to be 'monitored well by school aids'. No other specific peak times are mentioned.
- Value
- Olive Jones Park is a public park and is FREE to access, offering excellent value given its comprehensive features for multiple age groups and strong safety measures. There are no mentioned hidden costs.
- Food
- Outside food and drinks are permitted, implied by the presence of multiple benches and picnic tables. However, there are no drinking fountains on-site, so visitors must bring their own beverages.
- Accessibility
- Yes, the park is Handicap Accessible.
- Safety
- The entire park is fenced in from the streets, enhancing overall safety.
What parents say
"SEE PARK DETAILS AT END Visited 10.22.18 following doctor appointments near AFCH and S Park St. Beautiful fall day! Pictures online didn't do the park justice so I added some. It's well done for being a park at this city location. My girls (ages 8 and 10) were pleased. There was plenty in the space to be satisfied, create an obstacle course or simply to run! Colorful area! painted on the backdrop of the playground that reads, 'Choices you make today shape your world tomorrow.' PLAYGROUND: Fun! Different things to try. Two different playgrounds next to each other for toddlers verses "
6 years ago
"Great Park for young kids! It is fenced in on all sides and has a separate play area for younger children. Good for middle schoolers to with a very climbing oriented jungle gym"
4 years ago
"Lots of options for the kids. Great place to get some energy out before or after a Badger football game."
5 years ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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