Top 5 Parks in Vail for Family Fun: Must-Visit Guide

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Wherever we go, we are ALWAYS on the lookout for a great park. 

Fortunately, Vail, Colorado, is home to many unique and impressive parks that offer endless fun for the kids.

Our top 5 picks for family-friendly parks in Vail include Ford Park, Pirate Ship Park, Donovan Park, and Red Sandstone Park.

Each of these parks is either within walking distance from Vail Village and Lionshead or less than a five-minute drive away!

We’ve visited these parks numerous times, and based on our experiences, we’ve compiled all the details and tips you need to make the most of your visit to these incredible Vail parks below!

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Ford Park

Ford Park is, without a doubt, the top park in Vail.

It’s a place where you could spend the entire day, and I highly recommend you do!

We usually pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it either on the expansive grassy field with stunning mountain views or at one of the picnic tables near Gore Creek. 

Address: 841 Vail Valley Drive, Vail, Colorado

Getting There

If you are staying in Lionshead or Vail Village, you can walk or bike to Ford Park. 

Keep in mind that depending on where you are coming from, the walk might be a bit long- well over a mile.

One day we took the free Vail in-town shuttle part of the way and then walked the rest.

We got off at the Covered Bridge stop and then followed the trails to Ford Park. 

During the summer, the Ford Amphitheater stop is another convenient option for getting off the bus close to the park.

There is good signage and trails to get to Ford Park.

On another visit, we rented bikes and rode to Ford Park.

If you plan to drive, there’s a parking lot at 720 S Frontage Road E. 

Parking is free as long as there is no event happening. 

This lot also serves the Ford Amphitheater and Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, both of which are adjacent to Ford Park. 

Ford Park Playground

The Ford Park Playground features a large, multi-level wooden play structure connected by a wobbly bridge. 

Kids can climb to different levels and find various hiding spots throughout the structure. 

The playground also has multiple slides and a unique climbing structure that looks like a mix of  boulders, tree trunks, and roots. 

There are also a couple of obstacle courses and climbing challenges.

For younger kids, there’s a smaller wooden playground with slides. 

Additionally, the playground includes a bouncy teeter totter, a unique stone bird to climb, and swings for both older and younger kids.

The playground has something everyone will enjoy.

Ford Park Amenities

Ford Park offers restrooms, a drinking fountain, and a shelter with picnic tables. 

One of its biggest draws is the enormous grassy field, perfect for resting, picnicking, and playing sports. 

There’s also a basketball court for those who want to shoot some hoops.

What Makes Ford Park so Special

Two things make Ford Park stand out: it’s amazing grassy field with mountain views and its proximity to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the Betty Ford Alpine Education Center, Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, and the picturesque Gore Creek.

You can easily spend a half of a day or more here.

Once the kids are ready for a break from the playground, you can explore the beautiful Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and visit the Betty Ford Alpine Education Center.

You also can walk across the grassy field to the Children’s Garden and Betty’s Market, a small Farmer’s Market playhouse overlooking Gore Creek. 

There’s a spot to walk down to the creek, with a picnic table right next to the water– a perfect spot for a picnic!

Tips for Visiting Ford Park

• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and good shoes, as your kids will love climbing and running around.

• Bring a Ball: If you think you might want to play in the field, pack a ball.

• Pack a Picnic: Consider bringing a picnic lunch or a blanket if you want to relax on the grassy field. You’ll likely be at Ford Park for a couple of hours.

• Stay Hydrated: Bring water to stay hydrated, although there is a drinking fountain available. 

• Snacks: Even if you don’t bring lunch, packing some snacks is a good idea, as you’ll probably spend several hours at Ford Park.

Pirate Ship Park

Pirate Ship Park is another must-visit in Vail, offering a unique setting that sparks kids’ imaginations.

Located right next to the base of Gondola One, it’s a spot that will entertain kids while providing a convenient location for parents.

Address: 9 Hanson Ranch Road, Vail, Colorado

Getting There

Getting to Pirate Ship Park is also easy and convenient. It is super walkable and of course, a great place to ride your bikes to as well!

Situated right next to Gondola One in Vail Village, the park is easy to find. 

If you’re taking the bus, you can get off at the Hanson Ranch Road stop. 

However, walking or biking is arguably the best way to reach Pirate Ship Park, especially if you’re staying in Lionshead or Vail Village.

If you’re staying further away, you’ll likely park in one of the parking structures in Vail Village or Lionshead for the day. From there, you can walk, bike, or take the bus to get closer to the park.

Pirate Ship Playground

The Pirate Ship Park features the ultimate playground for imaginative play. 

The centerpiece of the playground is a massive pirate ship, complete with different levels and hideouts, just like a real pirate ship.

Kids can climb up to the crow’s nest, walk the plank, and even take the wheel to steer the ship. 

They can also explore the ship’s bow, adding to the adventure.

There’s a small rock wall for climbing, where kids can peek through a port hole. 

They can also pretend to battle the green and red sea monster from the safety of the pirate ship or climb on the monster itself for added fun!

In addition to the large pirate ship, there’s a small wooden boat for younger kids to play on.

The playground also features a slide coming down from the ship and baby swings.

Pirate Ship Park Amenities

While Pirate Ship Park doesn’t have many amenities right on site, its proximity to Vail Village and Gondola One means that public restrooms are nearby.

The park does have benches and a couple of picnic tables, making it a nice spot to relax while the kids play.

It’s also located next to a creek, where many families enjoy wading in the water on warm days.

What Makes the Pirate Ship Park Special

Pirate Ship Park is so special because of its fun, pirate-themed playground that encourages imaginative play.

The design truly brings the pirate adventure to life for the kids.

The park’s location is another highlight. Being right at the edge of Vail Village, it’s close to restaurants and shops.

You can even watch your kids play at Pirate Ship Park from the deck of Los Amigos restaurant. 

Tips for Visiting the Pirate Ship Park

• Wear Good Shoes: Make sure the kids have sturdy shoes for climbing and running around.

• Pack for the Creek: Consider bringing a towel, swimsuit, and/or change of clothes in case the kids decide to wade in the creek.

• Stay Hydrated: Bring water bottles to keep everyone hydrated. 

• Combine Visits: Consider visiting both Pirate Ship Park and Ford Park in the same day as they aren’t too far from each other.

Sunbird Park

Sunbird Park is another gem in Vail. 

Located just up the stairs from Vail Square and next to the Arrabelle in Lionshead, Sunbird Park stands out for its unique design and quaint location.

If you find yourself in Lionshead, I highly recommend a visit to this charming park. 

Address: 555 E Lionshead Circle, Vail, Colorado

Getting There

Sunbird Park is easily accessible by foot, bike, or the Vail shuttle.

Situated in Lionshead, your method of getting there will depend on where you are staying in Vail or where you’ve parked if you’re visiting for the day.

The park is about ¾ of a mile from Vail Village, so walking takes around 15 minutes, while biking will get you there in about 5 minutes.

The free Vail in-town shuttle is also a great option. 

For those driving, there’s a parking structure at 395 E Lionshead Circle. 

Sunbird Park Playground

The Sunbird Park Playground is truly unique! 

It features three different bird’s nest-like structures for kids to play in. (Some kids think they look like onions.)

Whether your family sees them as nests or onions, one thing is certain- the kids will have a blast playing in them. 

There are various ways to reach these nests, including ladders, rope ladders, and wobbly bridges.

The nests have slides going down from them and some even have two levels, perfect for hiding spots.

Sunbird Park also features a boulder wall for climbing and fountains that the kids love running through.

Sunbird Park Amenities

While there aren’t restrooms directly in Sunbird Park, public restrooms are conveniently located just down the stairs toward Vail Square and to the left.

There are also drinking fountains next to these restrooms.

The park has benches for parents to relax on, and the setting is simply charming.

The view of the Arrabelle Hotel at Vail Square from Sunbird Park is stunning, adding to the park’s appeal.

Sunbird Park is surrounded by numerous restaurants and shops, with Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop located right across from the park.

What Makes Sunbird Park Special

Sunbird Park is special because of its whimsical playground structure. Our kids absolutely love the nests or (“onions”), pretending each one is their own house.

The park’s design is so unique, and running through the fountains is always a highlight.

Another aspect we LOVE about Sunbird Park is its location. Nestled in Lionshead Village, the park is surrounded by charming cobblestone streets and a delightful mix of modern and European architecture. 

During our stay at Lion Square Village, it was incredibly convenient to visit Sunbird Park- we played there every single day. 

After dinner, we’d often head over to Sunbird Park for some playtime before returning to our rental. 

Sunbird Park is a wonderful place that gives you a special feeling when you’re there.

Tips for Visiting Sunbird Park

• Be Prepared for the Fountain: The kids may want to play in the fountain, so bring a towel and/or change of clothes.

• Proper Footwear: Sunbird Park has several climbing structures, so make sure the kids have appropriate footwear.

• Enjoy the Views: Take a moment to soak in the beautiful surroundings while the kids play. 

• Combine with Other Activities: If your time in Vail is limited, consider combining a visit to Sunbird Park with other nearby activities. You could visit Sunbird Park on the same day as the Eagle Bahn Gondola, or stop by after lunch or dinner in Lionshead. 

Donovan Park

Donovan Park is a true gem in Vail, offering a stunning playground and equally impressive views.

Address: 1600 S Frontage Rd W, Vail, Colorado

Getting There

Driving is likely the easiest way to reach Donovan Park, as it’s just 2 miles from Vail Village along the frontage road. 

The park has a large parking lot conveniently located right next to it. 

You can also bike to Donovan Park via the Gore Creek Trail, although we didn’t get a chance to try this ourselves.

Donovan Park Playground

Donovan Park features two log-themed playgrounds- one for older kids and one perfectly suited for younger children.

The playground includes a bouncy teeter totter, a few other bouncy structures, and swings.

The log playground offers various tube and open slides, bridges, tunnels, and even a long rope to climb up to the play area. 

The design is charming, complete with a spiral staircase leading to the top.

Donovan Park Amenities

Donovan Park is well-equipped with restrooms, drinking fountains, picnic tables, and benches. 

There are also some nice shaded spots, making it a comfortable place to spend time.

The park also has a large grassy field for soccer and other sports, plus a basketball court. 

Donovan Park is also home to the Donovan Pavilion, a beautiful building available for rental. Although we couldn’t go inside, the exterior alone is quite impressive!

What Makes Donovan Park Special

What sets Donovan Park apart is it’s beautifully maintained log playgrounds that capture the essence of Vail’s natural charm.

The entire park exudes a well-kept, impressive atmosphere that makes it a standout spot in the area.

You really have to visit the park to truly grasp what I’m trying to convey- there’s just something about it that makes you feel good.

Tips for Visiting Donovan Park

• Pack a Picnic: If you’re visiting during lunch, bring a picnic to enjoy in the park’s lovely picnic areas.

• Bring Sports Equipment: Make the most of the large grassy field by bringing a soccer ball, frisbee, football, or other sports gear.

• Stay Hydrated: Vail’s higher elevation can lead to dehydration, so bring water. You can refill your water bottle at the park’s drinking fountains.

DISCOVER EVEN MORE IN VAIL: Top 30 Things to do in Vail in the Summer with Your Family

Red Sandstone Park

Red Sandstone Park is another unique and fun playground in Vail that our kids absolutely loved!

Address: 715 N Frontage Road W, Vail, Colorado

Getting There

The best way to reach Red Sandstone Park is by driving. 

The park is just 1 mile from Vail Village. You’ll need to go under I-70 and take N Frontage Road W, but don’t worry- it’s easier than it sounds and only takes a few minutes.

Red Sandstone Park Playground

Our boys nicknamed the Red Sandstone Park Playground the “stick figure park,” and it’s easy to see why.

The playground equipment is designed with giant stick figures holding up the equipments, from the small slide to the swings.

Even the bridges and fire pole are supported by these quirky figures!

The main play area resembles a giant clubhouse, perfect for imaginative play. 

It features a large tube slide that starts at the top of the multi-level structure and winds all the way to the bottom.

This park is an absolute blast!

Red Sandstone Park Amenities

Red Sandstone Park has restrooms, a drinking fountain, benches and picnic tables, making it a convenient spot for families.  

What Makes Red Sandstone Park Special

The unique design of the playground, with its stick figure supports and multi-level “clubhouse,” makes Red Sandstone Park truly special.

The kids loved the imaginative play it inspired and had a great time exploring the different passageways and levels of the play structure. 

They even had a blast playing a fun game of hide-n-seek!

Tips for Visiting Red Sandstone Park

• Limited Parking Availability: Be aware that Red Sandstone Park has only a few parking spots, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead in case the lot is full.

• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially on warm days.

• Wear Good Shoes: The kids will be climbing and running around a lot, so make sure they have proper footwear.

• Capture the Memories: The stick figure-themed playground is so unique- be sure to take some photos to remember it!

FIND OUT MORE: Ultimate Vacation Guide for Families Visiting Vail in the Summer

Vail’s Unique Parks

These parks are just a taste of the incredible variety Vail has to offer.

Each one is easily accessible from Vail Village and Lionshead, making them convenient for families to visit.

What I love most about Vail’s parks is their uniqueness! Each park offers something special that sets it apart from the others.

Another standout feature is how these parks embrace the natural beauty of their surroundings

They all offer stunning views that parents can enjoy while their kids play. 

I love that about these parks. ❤️

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May you LOVE your adventure. KW