At Watkins Regional Park in Prince Georges County, you can follow the yellow brick road (literally) to a Wizard of Oz-themed playground that’s guaranteed to have your kids singing, “We’re off to see the Wizard, the wonderful Wizard of Oz!” But don’t take our word for it. This is one fun spot you’ll have to see to believe. Read on to discover this hidden gem.
Photo: Caity T. via Yelp
Somewhere over the rainbow…
As the latest addition to this popular family-fun filled park that features picnicking, trailblazing, camping, mini-golf, mini-train rides, old-fashioned carousel rides, and an animal farm, this super cute playground leaves nothing untouched when it comes to its Wizard of Oz theme. From the yellow brick road that begins at the park’s gates, you’ll walk under a rainbow of colors and pass by wood carvings of the Scarecrow and the Wicked Witch of the West, then make your way to two giant ruby red slipper slides that will have your little ones squealing with delight.
Photo: Kelly B. via Yelp
Lions, and tigers, and bears…oh my!
You can park yourself on a bench near the slippers and watch the kids dart from one colorful piece of equipment to the next. There’s the Emerald City, an enormous green structure with a climbing wall, slides, tunnels and bridges. The kids can explore Uncle Henry and Auntie Em’s barn and wonder through a poppy flower field. They can crawl into colorful Munchkin houses and check out Auntie Emm’s farm house. They can even spend some time in Toto’s dog house. The entire playground is encircled by a rainbow track where kids can run themselves ragged. A swing set is strategically placed to let them swing over the rainbow and back again. It’s a fabulous and fun time for everyone.
Photo: F Delventhal via Flickr
Insider tips
Take a picnic or snacks because there’s no food for purchase, and choose a day other than Monday to go if you want to combine the playground with a carousel ride or a game of mini-golf, because these activities are closed every Monday.
301 Watkins Park Dr. (Upper Marlboro, Md)
Cost: Parking and playground are free; $2-$2:50 for carousel and train rides; $5-$6.50 for mini-golf.
Online: mncppc.org
Have you visited this park yet? Tell us about it in the comments below.
–Jamy Bond
