Knoxville, Iowa: The Playgrounds Worth the Drive
Knoxville, Iowa, is a small town with three memorable playgrounds that your kids will ask to return to! Whether you are making a day trip to Knoxville for the races, to just play, or to spend time at Lake Red Rock or Elk Rock State Park, each of these playgrounds is worth a visit.
Auld Park
Address: 305 3rd Place in Knoxville, Iowa
In our family, this park is affectionately called Cinderella Park. The very large, spread-out classic wooden structure invites imagination. Kings, queens, and dragons come to life as they play. This playground is also my kids’ favorite park anywhere in Central Iowa to play hide-and-seek. There are so many nooks and crannies that my kids love.
Veterans Park
Address: 1624 Justice Way in Knoxville, Iowa
Knoxville’s newest playground is a nature playscape and a seasonal splash pad. This spread-out splash pad has many rocks, logs, and even canoes for kids to climb on and explore, immersing them in nature. A nearby knoll has logs all around it with a slide. My kids loved creating different obstacles throughout the park using all of the natural elements.
Marion County Park
Address: 306 Willets Way in Knoxville, Iowa (playground is located on the backside of the park)
I think Marion County Park is one of the best-kept park secrets in Central Iowa. This playground my kids ask to go back to again and again. This park features a swing zipline that loops around in a full circle. It requires the use of their strength and teamwork to pull it back to the top. Even my teens enjoy this swing zipline! Next to the swing zipline, there is a large traditional playground where my kids all drift to. This playground does have sand underneath, which, if you have a sand-loving kid, is a dream for them!
If you visit Marion County Park on the weekends between Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Marion County Historical Society maintains a historic village at the park that is open for display. Visit a log cabin, museum, schoolhouse, general store, and stagecoach inn.
Sweet treats in Knoxville
While in Knoxville, stop at Kone Korner, 405 W Pleasant St. The ice cream is the perfect mid-day snack at a small town treasure! Make sure you have cash with you. If you’re looking for an inside place to get ice cream, Dairy Queen, 1204 S Lincoln St, in Knoxville is a perfect place to cool down. It has an indoor play place open for kids under 10!
