Watkins Downs Horse Racing Playground — Attraction in Mitchellville

An Imagination Playground in Prince George's County. Suitable for younger (0-4 years old) children who like themed okay and slides. Also good for older children (5-12 years old) who want to have sliding fun while feeling like they are deep in the woods. Several swings (regular, bucket, and ADA), chairs, and plenty of picnic areas around. A water fountain is next to the playground. No bike parking but at least trails to explore the greater Watkins Park. Equipment is in good shape but could use a pressure wash to clean off grime. A fun little spot to fairly close to the Wizard of Oz playground...driven by this one during Festival of Lights and somehow didn't manage to see it! Great quiet escape away from the rest of the park bustle.

A description from the Imagination Playground brochure: "A horse race is always exciting to watch as much as it is to see the horse adorned with flowers after the winning race! A barn will provide a unique play space, which is modeled after the Maryland Preakness grandstand and barns. A starting gate is part of the play structure where kids can pretend to be the horse jockey ready to race! The Maryland flag colors of red, black, white and gold are represented in the colorful...

Good spot for older kids as the large play structure is quite high so kids need to be proficient climbers before attempting. There is a smaller play structure next to the large one, but good luck keeping the youngsters away from the big one as it is very engaging. Stays shady all day long and has picnic tables and reserved pavilions all around it. Has 3 regular swings and 1 harness style swing. The ground surface is nice and rubbery for soft landings. Bathrooms are not...

Super cute playground!! Smaller scale compared to the Wizard of Oz playground but very fun. This one is a horse racing-themed. Bathrooms, water fountains and picnic tables all nearby. Lots of shade. Off the beaten path so far less crowded. Definitely age appropriate for small tots, but harder, more challenging stuff...