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Macaroni KID Picks: Top Parks and Playgrounds- Kansas City's Northland

Discover our favorite playgrounds and parks in Northland KC for endless family fun!

By Melissa Basgall, Editor and Publisher June 17, 2024

When it comes to outdoor fun and adventure, Northland Kansas City boasts some of the best playgrounds and parks that will keep kids entertained for hours. From swings and slides to climbing walls and water features, the Northland's parks and playgrounds keep my kiddo active, provide great opportunities to meet old friends and make new ones, and best of all, they're FREE!

I often get asked about our favorite playgrounds, so I thought I'd share my family's top five playgrounds and parks in Kansas City's Northland with you.



Macken Park
Address: 1000 Clark Ferguson Dr
North Kansas City, MO

What we love about Macken Park:
Macken Park in North Kansas City is a favorite spot for families because of its expansive green spaces and well-maintained playgrounds. Kids adore the variety of play structures and the large open fields perfect for running and games.

Amenities at Macken Park:
🚻 Restrooms
πŸ” Picnic tables
🌳 Walking trails
πŸ€ Basketball courts
🎾 Tennis courts

🏰 Playgrounds


English Landing Park
Address: 8701 McAfee St
Parkville, MO

What we love about English Landing Park:
English Landing Park in Parkville offers stunning views of the Missouri River and a serene environment for families to enjoy picnics and walks. Children love exploring the riverside trails and playing on the shaded playground equipment.

Amenities at English Landing Park:
🚻 Restrooms
🚣‍♂️ Boat ramp
🌊 River access
🌲 Shelters with grills
🏞 Scenic overlooks

πŸ₯Disc Golf Course

🏰 Playgrounds

Happy Rock Park

Address: 7600 NE Antioch Rd
Gladstone, MO

What we love about Happy Rock Park:
Happy Rock Park in Gladstone is known for its large play area featuring a pirate ship-themed playground that sparks children's imaginations. Families enjoy the splash pad in the summer and the shaded picnic areas year-round.

Amenities at Happy Rock Park:
🚻 Restrooms
🏰 Playgrounds
🍽 Picnic shelters
πŸƒ‍♂️ Walking paths

πŸ₯Disc Golf Course


Liberty Community Center Park
Address: 1600 S Withers Rd
Liberty, MO

What we love about Liberty Community Center Park:
Liberty Community Center Park provides a fantastic playground experience with equipment suitable for all ages, from toddlers to teens. Families appreciate the nearby community center for indoor activities and classes, making it a perfect year-round destination.

Amenities at Liberty Community Center Park:
🚻 Restrooms
🏊‍♂️ Indoor pool
πŸ€ Basketball courts
πŸ‹οΈ‍♂️ Fitness center
🎨 Community center programs

🏰 Playgrounds


Penguin Park
Address: 4124 NE Vivion Rd  
Kansas City, MO

What we love about Penguin Park:
Penguin Park in Kansas City is an iconic destination known for its giant, colorful penguin sculptures that children can climb and explore. The park's whimsical design and spacious playground make it a hit with kids of all ages. Families enjoy picnicking under the shade of the park's trees and taking leisurely walks around the pond.

Amenities at Penguin Park:
🚻 Restrooms  
🐧 Penguin sculpture
πŸ” Picnic tables  
🌳 Shaded areas  
🚢‍♂️ Walking paths

🏰 Playgrounds

These parks in the Kansas City Northland area provide a range of amenities and activities that cater to families looking for outdoor fun and relaxation. We hope this list of top five playgrounds and parks in Kansas City's Northland helps you find — or rediscover! — some fun places for your family to explore. Now get those kids out to play!