Elizabeth Porter Park & Sprayground — Attraction in Marietta

We had quite an unfortunate experience during our visit to Elizabeth Porter Park. While the park itself has great potential, several issues made this a one-time visit for our family.

First, the online registration process was unexpectedly lengthy and required before entry—something many parents, including us, weren’t aware of in advance. With kids eager to play, this created a long, slow-moving entry line.

Once inside, we were told that the pavilion (which holds the majority of seating) was reserved at 4 PM and we would need to vacate by 3 PM—leaving limited to no seating for families not part of that reservation. All other tables were already taken by the time we arrived.

While our children played, they would occasionally return to the table for snacks and water. At one point, my young child and other parents witnessed a teenage boy—possibly around 16—deliberately try to trip my child by extending his leg in his path. Multiple adults saw it happen. When confronted, he denied it. To our shock, we later found out he was actually a staff member (in a Teal Blue shirt with staff written on the back on Friday).

The same staff member returned around 2:30 to tell us we needed to move so he could clean the area for the next party, despite a different staff member at the front desk having told us we were fine to stay until 3 PM. The timing felt targeted, especially after the earlier incident.

A couple days later, I noticed my child had developed three spots of ringworm. We hadn’t visited any other parks, public play areas, or businesses that week & certainly not that day, which raises serious concerns about the park's sanitation standards.

Unfortunately, between the unwelcoming experience, inconsistent information from staff, poor professionalism, and sanitation concerns, this was our first and last...

The highlight of the park is definitely the huge, multilevel play structure—a kid’s dream come true! It features awesome slides of all sizes, climbing areas, and many obstacles of varying difficulty, making it fun and challenging for kids of different ages and skill levels. One of the most exciting features is the roller coaster-style swing, which adds a thrilling twist to the playground experience. Kids will love testing their abilities while having a blast!

Another great aspect is that the playground is mostly fenced, providing an extra level of security for little ones. Parents can relax knowing their children are playing in a safe environment. However, there is limited seating and shade, so bringing a chair or umbrella might be a good idea for longer visits.

The park also features an amazing splash pad, perfect for cooling off on hot days! Unfortunately, it was still closed for the season when we visited, but we can’t wait to come back and enjoy it when it reopens.

Beyond the fantastic play areas, the park offers clean and well-maintained restrooms and multiple water fountains to keep everyone refreshed. The entire space is thoughtfully designed, with wide paths for easy stroller access.

Elizabeth Porter Park truly has everything you need for a fun and stress-free outing. Whether you're visiting for a quick play session or spending the entire afternoon, it’s a wonderful destination. We loved coming here and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a top-notch...

Highly recommended! First to know, there is a $2-$3 fee to pay upon entry and a waiver/ disclosure form to fill online (which you are able to do prior to arrival, recommended). Nonetheless, it is worth it!

The gated Splash Pad has several things for your little ones to do. It is a pretty open area, and you are able to walk around and play along with the child, even as an adult. I love that the Splash Pad has a big pavillion/ sitting area as well as a few other shaded sitting areas. If the sitting areas are filled, do not be afraid to bring a blanket, towels, or chairs of your own. The pavillion area can be reserved for birthday parties if wanted.

There are family restrooms as well as regular restrooms. There is even a canteen area that sells reasonably priced snow cones, chips, juices, etc. (light snacks/ refreshments).

In addition to the Splash Pad, there is a 100% free play park a few feet away. The park is gated and safely netted as well! There are several obstacle courses and little things for the kiddos to climb, hop, crawl, swing through, and so forth. Keep in mind that the park area is not shaded. Stay hydrated and bring sun screen.

Oh! No need to feel shy about bringing a wagon full of your own snacks, water toys, chairs, etc. - I have seen several do so! And parking is free...