Beyond the Playground – Creating Welcoming Park Spaces for Everyone

At Northwest Playground Equipment, playgrounds are a big part of what we do—but they’re just the beginning. We work with communities to build complete park environments that support movement, connection, and rest for all ages. From outdoor fitness equipment and sports courts to site furnishings, shade, and water play, we help create spaces that invite everyone to participate.

By expanding our vision beyond play structures, we can design parks that are multigenerational, inclusive, and engaging year-round. Here are some of the ways we help communities go beyond the playground—and the essential elements that make these spaces shine.

Promoting Healthy Movement with Outdoor Fitness Areas

Outdoor fitness spaces give teens, adults, and seniors a chance to move and train in the same park where children play. Whether it’s a compact circuit next to a trail or a large multi-user obstacle course, fitness zones offer a low-barrier way to promote wellness in public spaces.
In fact, communities that install outdoor fitness equipment see a 20% increase in adult physical activity.

• Inspiration: Add equipment along walking paths or near sports courts to encourage use by people of different ages and fitness levels.
• Partner Solutions: TrekFit, ExoFit

Activating Parks with Sports & Recreation Spaces

Sports areas bring energy and inclusivity to public parks by offering engaging options for teens and adults. Whether it’s a dedicated basketball court, a community soccer field, or a multi-use games area, these features create spaces for active play, social connection, and friendly competition.

• Inspiration: Activate underused park space with a basketball half-court, add a multi-use field near a school or housing area, or include permanent soccer goals to encourage spontaneous, everyday play.
• Partner Solutions: Agorespace (multi-use fields), Bison (basketball hoops and soccer goals), Sportworks (bike racks and park infrastructure)

Creating Connection with Shelters and Shade

Shelters provide gathering space for families, community events, and individuals looking for a shady spot to rest. Thoughtfully placed shade structures can increase comfort, encourage longer visits, and make even the hottest days more enjoyable.

• Inspiration: Position picnic shelters near play areas, water features, or trailheads to maximize usability.
• Partner Solutions: Poligon, USA Shade

Making Parks Comfortable with Benches, Tables & Furnishings

Benches, tables, bike racks, and trash receptacles are essential elements that enhance usability and create a welcoming atmosphere. These small details make a big difference in how a space feels and functions, particularly for older adults or caregivers.

• Inspiration: Mix seating types—single benches, group tables, and accessible options—to serve a wide range of visitors.
• Partner Solutions: DuMor

Bringing Joy with Splash Pads and Water Play

Splash pads offer inclusive, sensory-rich play experiences that appeal to children and caregivers alike. Water play can cool visitors on hot days and create opportunities for intergenerational fun—especially when paired with seating and shade.

• Inspiration: Include age-appropriate water zones and perimeter seating to create a destination during warmer months.
• Partner Solutions: Waterplay