We are lucky in Central Massachusetts to have so many great playgrounds and parks to explore. From swings to slides, to walking paths and water features, there are plenty of parks and playgrounds that keep our kids active, are a great place to meet old friends (and make new friends!), and they're FREE!
I often get asked what our favorite playgrounds are, so I thought I'd share here with you my family's picks for our top five playgrounds and parks to visit in our area.
Savage Field
36 Vale Street, Clinton, MA 01510
What we love about Savage Field:
Distance counts and this is the closest playground to our home! There is a variety of equipment for all ages including slides, climbing, and swings. Some off-street parking, and please be mindful of residents when parking on the street.
Amenities at Savage Field:
Clinton Parks and Recreation maintains the park and has more details on its website. Open dawn to dusk. Park may be rented for special events, more details here. Preferred parking is on Vale Street, near the skate park entrance.
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Central Park
242 Church Street, Clinton, MA 01510
(Address is for Town Hall, use for GPS)
What we love about Central Park:
Open space and paved paths - it's great for meeting with friends and walking with strollers. We've had many picnics by the fountain. Kids ride scooters, play tag, and catch. Plenty of restaurant options nearby on High Street if you wanted to grab a meal. The Bigelow Library is at the corner of Walnut and Church Streets - we have visited the park after the library. Clinton takes great pride in maintaining this park. I have also attended yoga with Wachusett Wellness here; offered by Clinton Parks and Recreation.
Amenities at Park:
Clinton Parks and Recreation maintains the park and has more details on its website. Open dawn to dusk. Park may be rented for special events, more details here. Street parking along Church Street, Walnut Street, and Union Street. A public lot is also available on Walnut Street.
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Center Road, Shirley, MA 01464
What we love about Farandnear:
As a parent, my favorite thing about this area is the large, permanent restrooms. (With toilet paper, and running water!). Restrooms are conveniently located next to the pavilion with picnic tables. And since this park is farther away from us, it was great to know there were shaded areas and restrooms so we didn't have to rush.
Farandnear is a Trustees property, learn more here.
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Nathaniel Thayer Park and Splashpad
60 Packard Street, Lancaster, MA 01523 (official address)
Use 30 Harvard Road, Lancaster, MA 01523 to get to the parking lot (it is a one way)
What we love about Thayer Park:
The splash pad! And the structures are big enough to help your toddler explore, but also challenging enough for the older kids (7-10). There's not much shade at this park, so be prepared to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. There is usually a port-o-potty nearby.
Amenities at Thayer Park:
This park is maintained by the Town of Lancaster Recreation Department. New for 2022 is a Little Free Library, additional picnic tables, and a bench within the fenced area. The splash pad is small, and best for kids 6 and under.
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40 Barrett Pkwy, Leominster, MA 01453
What we love about Barrett Park:
Tucked away in Leominster, we were so excited to visit this park for the first time. Plenty to look for walking the trails - the views are beautiful. Top pick for a picnic! The pond adds a special element that no other park we've been to has, it's so peaceful. Dogs are not permitted at this park.
Amenities at Barrett Park:
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We hope this list of top five playgrounds and parks in Leominster, Lancaster, Shirley, and Clinton helps you find -- or rediscover! -- some fun places for your family to explore. Now get those kids out to play!
