happyly approved

Joseph H. Cole Recreation Center Playground

1299 Neal Street NE, Washington, DC 20002

Dawn until dusk

$

playground, water-activities

This playground in Northeast D.C. will impress kids of all ages!

We came across Joseph H. Cole Park Playground on an overcast day and it was completely empty, which even with less than perfect weather was a big surprise because it was so much fun. The kids were so pleased with the large climbing structures and learned so much as they tried all the different elements. 

The entire park, which includes basketball courts and a turf soccer pitch, is fenced in, and there is an additional layer of fencing around the tot area, with a playground designed for children under five. Additionally, a larger, challenging climbing structure was built for kids ages five to twelve. 

There is a splash pad to cool off in summer in the heart of the park, picnic tables and a recreation center with restrooms available from 3:30 - 9 pm Monday through Friday and Saturday from 10 am - 4 pm. The Rec Center is closed on Sundays. 

There is a parking lot and ample street parking immediately in front of the park was available when we were there. 

The park is right near Gallaudet University, and Union Market, Dolcezza Factory and The Lane Social Club are both within a five-minute drive.

Features

Parking Restrooms Good for All Ages
Thoughtfully captured by:
Randi Banks
Randi (Betts) Banks grew up in New York and graduated from Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. She moved to Washington, D.C. more than thirteen years ago with her husband, Eaghmon, and they love to explore the area and seek out adventure, now with their two young children along for the ride. Growing up right near the beach, they are happiest when on or near the water, so exploring the rivers, lakes, and streams in the greater DC area is a favorite pastime for their family. In addition to serving as one of the Washington, DC area ambassadors, Randi is also the Editor in Chief and Co-founder of happyly.
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