Summer is just around the corner which means it's time to get out of the house and enjoy some outdoor activities with the kids. Like most of us here in west michigan  I spent the winter months inside the walls of our home praying for the day when I could let the kids loose out into the wild, well ok not the wild but at least let them out and enjoy some of the cities great parks and playgrounds so here are some of my Favorites in no particular order.

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#1Manhattan Recreation Area

Manhattan Recreation Area is located in the NE corner of East Grand Rapids and encompasses 40 acres.  This multi-use area is home to many activities hosted by the Parks and Recreation Department.

So pack up the car and grab the picnic supplies and get ready to enjoy some great summer fun. This park has plenty to offer, you can find most everything you want to make sure you have a fun day.

Features include Charcoal grills, 12 picnic tables, nature trails, tennis, large playgrounds, soccer fields and much more.

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#2Millennium Park

This park is right down the street from my house. there is plenty you can do at the park and they also have some awsome bike trails for you and your child to enjoy the outdoors.  A highlight and favorite destination in Millennium Park is the six-acre sand beach and its large splash-pad. Though admission is free to the rest of the park, there is an admission fee to use the beach area. The beach at Millennium Park is on a clear 100 acre lake, with a well-marked swimming area. It’s the perfect place to soak up some sun or cool down on a hot summer day, and it’s only minutes away from Grand Rapids!

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#3Dutton Shadyside Park

This picturesque park with its large maples is ideal for picnics on hot summer days. The open shelter, new playground equipment and tennis courts provide a wide variety of recreation opportunities.

Park activities and facilities include: tennis courts, baseball diamonds, an open shelterhouse, picnicking, a playground, and restrooms.

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#4 Lamar Park Slashpad

The Splashpad features a number of unique design elements that make it universally accessible to children and adults of all abilities. Features include Interactive play space featuring soaker stations, a water tunnel, fire hydrant and dumping buckets in a variety of bright,vibrant colors. Now keep in mind as with all splash parks it is non supervised so be sure to keep a eye on the little ones.  But if you are looking for some great summer fun this is a great place to cool off.

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#5 Hillcroft Park

This park has everything you need to burn off all the energy that has been building up over the winter. With over 12 acres you can find everything from picnic areas, shelter and grills, soccer fields, baseball fields, and ever some great biking trails. The park also features new platyground equipment and restrooms.

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These are just some of the great parks I like to go to, however there are many great parks and playgrounds our area has to offer. If you would like to know more just check out the list.

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