Sunny playground with toddler area, splash pad, picnic pavilion

Twin Hickory Park in Glen Allen, VA, offers something for everyone! When you enter the park, there's a small tot lot on the right. This area is ideal for very young children. There is a parking lot here, making this a convenient play area for caregivers with little ones. This particular playground has big kid and baby swings, a spring ride-on car, and a rock-climbing wall. It has a mulch base. There is one bench in front of the playground where you could place your things or have a snack break.

If your children are five years or older, I recommend passing this playground and heading straight back to the larger playground. There's a large parking lot in front of this playground. It has a soft, rubber surface and no mulch. There's also a Little Free Library at the front of the playground. There's a separate nature-themed area for toddlers on the left when you enter. This area has baby swings and age-appropriate climbing activities.

The larger playground has a canopy cover, but the playgrounds are in direct sunlight, so pack sunscreen! This is a treehouse-like playground, and my children love it. They love climbing to the top and sliding down. There are lots of options for climbing - from ladders to steps that resemble leaves. There is a covered picnic area between the two playgrounds where caregivers can sit and still see most of both playgrounds. Alternatively, there are a few benches throughout the play space. Keep in mind that this park is quite popular, and it is likely to be busy most weekends. To avoid the crowds, try visiting very early in the morning on a weekday or during nap time (noon-early afternoon).

During the summer months, the splash pad is turned on, and it is always a hit for families on hot days! The bathrooms are adjacent to the covered picnic pavilion just outside the playground area. There is a large sand volleyball court by the playground where my children love to play and dig in the sand. Pack some sand toys for some added fun here! After playing, head to Mellow Mushroom, about five minutes away. My children devour this yummy pizza and get a kick out of ordering the special "mocktails"!