Griffith Park
The Equipment
Located in historic Gaithersburg next to the train station, Griffith Park offers a tot lot which contains a metal-and-plastic climbing structure with slides for younger kids (ages 2-5), two baby (bucket) swings, a train with an engine and caboose to climb/sit in, 2 springy ride-on seats, and a small two-room playhouse. Nearby is a larger climbing structure for older kids with 3 slides, monkey bars and ladders. There is also a swing set containing 4 standard swings. The playground is surfaced with wood chips, and there is a chain-link fence surrounding the tot area. (The gate is missing, however, so a toddler could escape if a parent isn’t watching.)
The Scene
One benefit of this park is the shade offered by mature trees. My husband and our children (ages 5 and 7) enjoy collecting the “spiky balls” dropped by the trees and engaging in a made-up game of hide-and-go-seek warfare. For those who prefer a more sedate approach, there are several benches on which to relax (two in the tot area and three in the larger section). One of the major perks of Griffith Park is its proximity to the train station. When a train whistle is heard, kids can run down the paved path to get a clear view as the train goes by. The path (good for bikes/scooters) circles the perimeter of the park, which includes a large field, two half-court basketball courts and two tennis courts plus a separate backboard. In addition, there is a picnic area consisting of a large gazebo with 13 picnic tables and a (non-functioning) brick fireplace, two outdoor grills in a large grassy area, and four trashcans. Two additional picnic tables are located in a shady area on the playground where parents can keep an eye on their younger and older children simultaneously. The gazebo building contains a water fountain and restrooms, but the restroom facilities were locked on the day we visited. There is ample parking in the City Hall parking lot immediately adjacent to the playground. Two nearby attractions include the Gaithersburg Community Museum and Growlers Restaurant.
Age Recommendation
All ages
Restrooms
Men’s, women’s and handicap-accessible restrooms are located in the gazebo building next to the playground. However, it is unclear whether these facilities are regularly open for use, or are only available to groups who reserve the use of the picnic facilities.
Review and photos by Wendy Buzy.,
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All ages,
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