If you’re headed to Fairfax with kids and looking to burn off energy in a fun, safe way — you’re in luck. This region is home to some of the best kid-friendly playgrounds around, complete with imaginative play structures, shaded picnic areas, swings, climbing walls, splash pads and more. Whether your child likes to explore nature-inspired playgrounds or tackle a big jungle-gym, Fairfax parks deliver. Here’s a guide to the top playgrounds your family shouldn’t miss.
Cardinal Park
Tucked into a residential neighborhood, Cardinal Park is a classic community favorite. Families can enjoy a relaxed afternoon here, with plenty of open space for children to play and shaded areas to cool off. While it’s not the biggest park in Fairfax, it’s ideal for a simple outing close to home.
- Location: 9701 Cardinal Road, Fairfax, VA
- Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
- Amenities: Playground, basketball courts, picnic tables, benches, unpaved walking trails
- Tips: This is a quieter, residential park. Bring your own sports equipment if you want to make use of the courts.
Daniels Run Park
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For those who prefer nature mixed with play, Daniels Run Park is a hidden gem. Covering 48 wooded acres, the park features a playground, picnic areas and a scenic stream running through the landscape. The Daniel’s Run Trail, a 1.7-mile path, is perfect for walking, jogging or biking.
- Location: 9800 Barlow Road, Fairfax, VA
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Amenities: Playground, picnic areas, stream, wooded trails
- Tips: Street-side parking is limited, so arrive early on weekends when crowds are the largest. Trails at the park can be a little uneven, so strollers with big wheels are best.
Ratcliffe Park
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Located in the heart of Fairfax City, Ratcliffe Park is a popular spot for families because of its convenient city placement and kid-friendly features. The playground includes swings, slides and even a sandbox, while a large covered picnic pavilion makes it easy to host events. As a result of its central location, Ratcliffe Park tends to be busy on weekends, but it remains a reliable spot for a fun afternoon outdoors.
- Location: 10300 Sager Ave., Fairfax, VA
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Amenities: Playground with swings, slides, sandbox, covered picnic shelter, multipurpose field, sports courts
- Tips: The pavilion can be reserved in advance and is great for parties and gatherings. Bathrooms and water are available nearby at the Fairfax Museum if needed.
Westmore Park
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At just one acre, Westmore Park may be small, but it packs in plenty for a neighborhood green space. Its size makes it easy to keep an eye on children, and the park is a good fit for families looking for a quick play stop without the crowds of larger destinations.
- Location: 4030 Fern St., Fairfax, VA
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Amenities: Playground, basketball court, tennis court, picnic pavilion
- Tips: There’s no dedicated parking lot so you’ll need to find neighborhood parking nearby.
Clemyjontri Park
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One of Fairfax County’s most unique destinations, Clemyjontri Park in McLean is designed with accessibility at its core. Every feature of the playground is inclusive, allowing children of all abilities to play together. Wide ramps, sensory-friendly areas and specially designed equipment make this park stand out, while four distinct play zones surround a charming carousel.
- Location: 6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA (Fairfax County)
- Hours: 7 a.m.-dusk
- Amenities: Four themed playgrounds, wide ramps, accessible play equipment, carousel, walking paths
- Tips: Arrive early on weekends since parking lots fill quickly. However, overflow parking is available across the street at Langley Fork Park. Remember to bring sunscreen as some areas have limited shade.
Burke Lake Park
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For a true day-trip destination, Burke Lake Park delivers. Centered around a scenic lake, this expansive park offers multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, a miniature train, a carousel and even a disc golf course.
- Location: 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station, VA
- Hours: 7 a.m.-dusk (amenities vary by season)
- Amenities: Multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, 4.7-mile loop trail, miniature train, carousel, boat rentals, disc golf
- Tips: Keep in mind that non-residents need to pay a per-vehicle fee on weekends from April to October.
Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
