There are so many amazing parks and playgrounds in and around the Canada Bay area – and we know they are absolutely critical to keeping little people – and big people – happy!

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Inner West spots perfect for an easy and fun family day out. Pack a picnic and check them out!

Livvi’s Place, Timbrell Park – Five Dock

This award-winning playground is an initiative of the ‘Touched By Olivia’ Foundation and is sure to impress. It was renovated in 2016 and was the very first inclusive playground in Australia – welcoming children of all abilities to reduce the barrier experienced by those with special needs. A lot of care and thought has gone into the design of the space and equipment. It features a motorised merry-go-round, flying fox, spider net tunnels, sandpit, water play area and much more. There’s also a cafe, BBQs, cycle track and soccer field right next door, so everyone is catered for.

Henley Marine Drive, Five Dock, NSW
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‘Hippo Park’ (Leichhardt Park Playground) – Lilyfield

If you’ve got a toddler or two in tow – this playground is going to be a big hit. Situated along the Bay Run – wedged between Callan Park and Le Montage – Hippo Park is fully-fenced, shaded and offers a beautiful view of the water. Equipment includes a large blue hippo – which gives the park its nickname – and a great climbing fort, plus all the classic hits like swings, slides and a see-saw. Best of all, you can stroll in either direction for coffee or snacks – a great day out for the whole family!

Leichhardt Park, End of Frazer St, Lilyfield, NSW
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Bicentennial Park – Concord West

There are several different playgrounds in and around Bicentennial Park – so many that it’s possible to get lost! With over 40 hectares of scenic parklands, Bicentennial Park has everything from picnic shelters, BBQs, cycle and walking tracks to a cafe and Peace Monument. The kids will love watching the ducks and birds around the lake. There are two actual playgrounds – Village Green and Concord West – and both have soft fall and huge array of unique play equipment for all ages. The recently upgraded Concord West playground even has a section for teenagers called ‘teen rager’. Be sure to check out all the activities they offer during the holidays. There’s no way they’ll get bored here!

Victoria Ave, Sydney Olympic Park, Concord West
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Battersea Park – Abbotsford

A park does not have to be huge to be amazing! This lovely hidden gem sits by the water at Hen and Chicken Bay at the northern tip of Abbotsford in Canada Bay. There’s a small playground set back from the water featuring a soft fall climbing wall, swings and slides. There are also long stretches of grass perfect for burning off youthful bouts of energy and a raised terrace walkway. A great spot to watch the sunset with your four-legged furry friends.

Battersea St, Abbotsford, NSW
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Cabarita Park Playground – Cabarita

Beach area in the Inner West? Why yes. Just drop by Cabarita Park and check out all their facilities right on the water: great playground, rotunda, BBQs and undercover eating areas. The suspended climbing frame, wooden fort and multi-seat swing unit are a hit with the little people, while the kiosk located at the nearby Cabarita Marina is a winner with the grown-ups. Everyone’s happy!

End of Cabarita Rd, Cabarita, NSW
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Halliday Park – Five Dock

Similar to Battersea Park, this little local park with an enclosed playground may not have all the bells and whistles, but it is usually quiet and the location is hard to beat. Located right next to the water at Hen & Chicken Bay, there is plenty of grass and a fantastic flat walkway along the beach – perfect for some bird-watching, sand play and to get little minds curious about nature. Best of all you can walk around to the Canada Bay Club afterwards for a meal and a drink!

McGrath Ave, Five Dock, NSW
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Image Source: Sydney Olympic Park