About This Playground
🌳 Smothers Park in Owensboro, Kentucky features an impressive playground area as part of its award-winning riverfront development. The playground offers unique play structures and interactive features with stunning views of the Ohio River.
Visitor Experience: Smothers Park playground receives exceptional reviews, with visitors praising its creative design, cleanliness, and variety of play options. Many reviewers call it one of the best playgrounds in the region.>
More about this playground
Playground Type
Address
199 W Veterans Blvd, Owensboro, KY 42303, USA
Phone
(270) 687-8333
+1 270-687-8333
Coordinates
37.77619, -87.11188
Hours of Operation
Hours may vary during holidays. Please call ahead for confirmation.
Playground Features
Age Suitability
Suitable for children ages 2-12, with separate areas designed for toddlers (2-5) and older children (5-12).
Equipment Available
Features include multiple slides, climbing structures, swings, interactive water features (including a cascading fountain), sensory play panels, and a unique three-story slide tower.
Shaded Areas
Several shaded sections with canopies over some play areas; mature trees throughout the park provide additional shade.
Seating For Parents
Abundant seating with benches positioned to allow clear views of the playground, plus picnic tables and grassy areas for blankets.
Restroom Availability
Clean, well-maintained public restrooms located near the playground area.
Drinking Fountains
Multiple drinking fountains available throughout the park, including accessible height options.
Safety Accessibility
Fencing
Partial fencing separates the playground from the river promenade but remains open on other sides for easy access.
Surface Material
Rubberized soft safety surfacing throughout the playground area to cushion falls.
Ada Accessibility
Designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps to major play structures, accessible swings, and ground-level interactive elements.
Cleanliness Maintenance
Very well maintained with regular cleaning schedules; playground equipment is in excellent condition.
Additional Amenities
Nearby Parking
Free parking available in adjacent lots and along streets; some designated accessible spaces near park entrances.
Pet Policy
Dogs allowed in park areas on leashes, but not permitted within the playground structures.
Bike Racks
Several bike racks installed near park entrances for convenient bike parking.
Nearby Food Options
Vendor carts often present during peak seasons; numerous restaurants within walking distance in downtown Owensboro.
Sports Areas
No formal sports courts within the immediate playground area, but open lawn spaces for informal play.
Walking / Biking Trails Nearby
Connected to the Owensboro Riverfront Trail that runs along the Ohio River for walking, jogging, and biking.
Community Reviews
User Submitted Photos
Numerous photos online show families enjoying the playground's innovative equipment and river views.
Recent Reviews
Consistently positive reviews highlight the cleanliness, variety of play options, and beautiful setting along the Ohio River.
Crowd Levels
Moderately busy on weekends and summer afternoons; less crowded on weekday mornings.
Special Events
Hosts seasonal events including summer concerts, holiday celebrations, and occasional children's programming.
User Experience
Entrance Fee
Completely free to enter and use all playground facilities.
Space For Groups
Ample space for birthday parties and group gatherings; pavilions can be reserved for larger events.
Nature Connection
Beautiful riverfront location offers connection to nature with views of the Ohio River and landscaped green spaces.
Noise Level
Moderate noise levels from playing children, but the open riverfront setting prevents noise concentration.
Aesthetic Design
Award-winning design integrates the playground seamlessly with the riverfront aesthetic using natural materials and nautical themes.
Safety Regulations
Security Presence
Regular patrols by local police; security cameras monitor the park area.
Rules Restrictions
Standard playground rules posted including adult supervision requirements, no smoking, and age-appropriate usage guidelines.
First Aid Availability
No permanent first aid station, but park staff are typically on-site during peak hours, and emergency services respond quickly to the central location.
Community Interaction
Community Activities
Regular community events held at the park including concerts, festivals, and children's programming.
Social Interaction
Design encourages cooperative play and interaction between children; common areas allow families to meet and socialize.
Sustainability Environment
Eco Friendly Practices
Incorporates native plantings in landscaping and uses environmentally friendly maintenance practices.
Renewable Energy
Some solar-powered lighting features throughout the park.
Walkability Bike Access
Excellent walkability from downtown Owensboro; connected to bike paths and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks.
Reviews
Adam Davis
7 months ago
We were staying in town and decided to stop by on way out. If you have little ones it's def worth the drive for them to play on the massive structure and splash pad. Beautiful view of the river and an clean environment.
View on GoogleJAGJIVAN SAVLA
10 months ago
Beautiful landscape garden with kids adventure trails. Ample seating in front of the river flowing. Walking trails. Light decorations after the twilight. Being g week days, perhaps food stalls were closed. Nice place for si gle/ couple or families.
View on GoogleJanice Ritchie
6 months ago
Such a beautiful playground and big enough, that parents can play with their children on it. The splash pad, I'd a great thing too, we absolutely loved it
View on GoogleKaren K
a year ago
Fantastic playground! Splash pad, beautiful view of Ohio River and bridge that is lit up at night with multi colors. Lots of seating, restrooms, walking distance to nearby restaurants. Dog on leash friendly. Non smoking. Very well done POW MIA Memorial.
View on GoogleJeff Greger
9 months ago
What a great riverfront. We had our Golden Doodle with us on a Sunday in early April. So nice taking a stroll up and down the river.
View on Google