Do you have a child that is really into dinosaurs? The Edelman Fossil Museum, in Mantua, offers a dinosaur themed playground on its premises that is FREE to the public and open even when the museum is closed!
My family and I have not had the chance to check out The Edelman Fossil Museum yet, but we did wander over to their playground- and let me say, it was awesome! The museum offers free parking, and the playground is off to the left of the parking lot. The play area is fenced in and contains some really interesting and unique structures for the kids to climb on.
What you can expect at this playground:
- A fenced in playground- We as parents can take a deep breath knowing that the playground is enclosed so we do not have to worry too much about our little elopers!
- Seating- A few benches are sprinkled throughout the playground for parents to sit or for children to rest their little legs!
- Turf type flooring- There's no worry of wood chips getting stuck in any places and then finding them in the car or in the house days later! (We've all been there!)
- Wooden structures- Think of those castle parks that used to be quite popular, but more prehistoric with a Mesozoic Era flare!
- There's a huge Pterodactyl that is the center point of the playground; he is very large and makes his presence known. There are various types of ladders that connect to the dinosaur so that the children can climb on and there are little cubby sections at its "body" where the kids can crawl into. There's also the option to climb on top of the dinosaur as if you are flying high on its back- just PLEASE use caution as wood can get slippery, especially if wet from a recent rain.
 Mr. Pterodactyl patiently waiting for climbers! |
Accessibility is an important factor for those who are handicapped or even for parents traveling with multiple children and using strollers to get everyone around. At the front of the playground, there are steps but there is a railing for those who need extra support for their balance.
If you need to skip the steps, there is a path that leads from the playground gate, continues by entering the playground, and wraps around the inside perimeter of the playground.
When we were visiting, I noticed that there was a handicapped child who was able to enter the playground on that path, and they also had the opportunity to enjoy some of the equipment. (This made my heart happy!)
- There is an extra-large disc swing that is big enough to lay back on and have room to sprawl out. With the help of a caregiver, the swing is a wonderful option for those who are handicapped.
- On the opposing side of the playground from the swing, is a large sandbox for digging "fossils" and playing dinosaurs.
- Outside of the playground, just around the fence, there is a walking path that is large enough and smooth enough for stroller or wheelchair wheels. The path leads to their outdoor environmental space that is great for observing animals and plants that our community holds. (We have not experienced this area yet, but we are a BIG hiking family and can't wait to check it out! )
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This is the viewpoint of looking at the entrance where the steps are.
 Pictured here is the sandbox that is located within the Edelman Fossil Playground where the kids can dig for "fossils" and dinosaurs! |
What other equipment can you find at this playground?
- Logs- There are various logs for the kiddos to climb on or in.
- Two different sliding boards- You will find a tall sliding board for older children and a smaller sliding board suitable for toddlers.
- Tension ropes and balance beams- Kids can test their balance skills by holding onto the rope above their head and balancing on the beam below their feet!
In totality, Edelman Fossil Park was a hit with my two children, and I loved how different it was. As parents, we sometimes search for a change, something new and interesting that sets aside from all the usual playgrounds or activities we set out on. This playground is that difference and if your child loves dinosaurs, it will be even more of a win!
Go on, make an afternoon of it- you'll be glad you did!
To learn more information about Edelman Fossil Park Museum, please visit their website HERE!
I am NOT sponsored to write this article. These are my own thoughts, opinions, and observations discovered on my own time and at my own discretion. These images are my own.
