We all know the rule of thumb: Children need 60 minutes of physical activity each day for healthy development. And playing is the most fun way to make it happen!
But sometimes it can be tough to come up with new and engaging ways to play with your child. So, we put together 30 Days of Play in JC Parks!
Discover 30 different ideas for connecting and getting active with your kids right here in Jefferson City.
1. Hit the Playground
You’re probably not a stranger to some of the JC Parks playgrounds, but did you know almost every one of our parks has one or more playgrounds? Check out City Parks to find a new playground to explore!
2. Go Hiking
There are so many ways to walk a mile (or more!) in JC Parks. Our Fitness Trails and Loops page has the low-down on all the best spots. For an extra sense of adventure, try the Katy Trail Spur to access Missouri’s 240-mile Katy Trail.
3. Splash at the Sprayground
The Community Park Sprayground is the perfect spot to cool off this summer. This free water feature has 3 zones designed for age-specific development!
4. Lace Up Some Ice Skates
Washington Park Ice Arena is the only indoor public ice rink in a 95-mile radius! And it’s open year-round. Find a public session that works with your schedule, today.
5. Break Out the Mountain Bikes
With over 18 miles of mountain biking trail, there are plenty of routes to keep your little off-roader happy. Beginners will love the Binder Park trails, while more advanced riders will thrive at Frog Hollow.
6. Take a Nature Walk
Get your child moving with a mission to discover our world’s simple wonders! We love these spots for nature walks:
7. Try Tennis
The Washington Park Tennis Courts are available for rent at the very affordable rate of $4/hour. That racquet they got last Christmas can finally get some use!
8. Tag, You’re It!
Don’t underestimate this classic! If your child enjoys a good game of tag, try moving from your yard to one of these parks with lot’s of space to run:
Looking for something a little different? Flip through all our City Parks.
9. Shoot Some Hoops
From one-on-one to a game of HORSE, hitting the basketball court is a great way to get moving. When the weather is nice, our outdoor courts are here for you. Looking for an indoor option? Drop-in to The LINC!
10. Put On A Show
Get their creative juices flowing with an impromptu performance on a real stage! Make your way to the Amphitheater at Ellis-Porter to show off their skills.
Psst: Running the stairs will wear them out, too!
11. Play with Your Pup
Running around with Rover is a fun way for your child to get their 60 minutes in. Check out the Dog Park for the perfect place to play off-leash with your furry friend!
12. Go for A Swim
From diving for rings to slipping down the water slide, both JC Parks pools have features your kid will love! Enjoy some fun in the sun at
13. Join a Community Bike Ride
Held monthly, Community Bike Rides offer a fun way to experience bike-friendly routes around Jefferson City. Cyclists of all skill levels are welcome!
14. Get in a Round of Disc Golf
This wildly popular variation on traditional golf is great for beginners and seasoned players. Enjoy two 18-hole disc golf courses at Binder Park!
15. Play Catch
Another simple pastime that can keep kids engaged for quite some time! Switch up your scenery by moving your game of catch to one of these parks:
16. Find an Event
Discover a quality event for your family! With multiple event categories, you’re sure to find something fun for everyone.
17. Hide and Seek
Up the ante by challenging your little one to a round of hide and seek – playground style! They’ll love scouring the play structures and other amenities at these parks for the perfect spot. Be sure to set boundaries first!
18. Roll up to the Skate Park
Let them skate or rollerblade to their little heart’s content at the Washington Park Skate Park! With half-pipes, grinding rails, and more, they’ll have plenty of opportunity to practice their tricks.
19. Take Out the Kayak
If they thrive on the water, let them take the kayak for a spin. For smoother sailing, launch at Binder Lake. More experienced kayakers are encouraged to check out Carl R. Noren River Access!
20. Cast Your Line
Whether they’re reeling them in or simply playing on the bank, fishing is a great way to switch things up this weekend. So, collect your tackle and make for one of our fishing-friendly lakes:
21. Fly Your Kite
A nice breezy day begs for kites in the sky! Next time the wind picks up, head to one of these parks for plenty of space to let out the line:
22. Set Up Camp
Set out on a family experience or opt for a guiding adventure. No matter your comfort level with camping, we offer spaces and programs to help your child learn and play.
23. I Spy with City Views
Did you know you can grab a really cool glimpse of the Capitol Building and the surrounding area from McClung Park? This hilltop haven has a recently remodeled playground and unbeatable views perfect for the ultimate game of I Spy.
24. Hit the Amusement Park
While JC Parks doesn’t have an amusement park of its own, we can provide you with discounted park tickets! Save on passes to Big Surf, Silver Dollar City, Six Flags, and more to upgrade from 60 minutes to a whole day of play.
25. Explore the City
The Jefferson City Greenway Trail System is great for planning your route A to B, but it’s also the perfect way to explore new parts of the city. Pack some snacks, pick a starting point, and see how far you can go!
27. Have a Game of Horseshoes
Whether you’re hosting a horseshoe tournament or introducing your kids to this fun lawn game, we can help! With horseshoe pits in multiple parks, you’re sure to find a spot that works for you – No reservations required.
28. Catch Fireflies
Fireflies? Lightning bugs? No matter what you call them, this summer tradition will transport you back to your childhood as you enrich theirs. Pick any park around dusk and watch them go. And please remember to catch and release!
29. Roll Out the Yoga Mat
Show your child the importance of stretching and core strength with some beginner level yoga in the park! A few spots we recommend:
- For serene morning meditation try McClung Park
- For yoga by the water, check out Binder Park and McKay Park
- With older kiddos? Drop-in to a yoga class at the LINC (16+)
30. Tee Up at Oak Hills
Golf is a great sport for players young and old. Get them started at Oak Hill Golf Center. From the driving range and practice area to lessons and camps, there are so many ways for your child to learn the game!
Share Your 30 Days of Play
No matter how you work your way through this list, don’t forget to share your experiences along the way! Tag us on Facebook and Instagram and use #PlayInJCParks.
Tip: Screenshot or print this post so you always have fun ideas at your fingertips!
