Photo: Chris Alvarez
Photo: Bernard Jeremy
Photo: Carlotta R
Simpson Mine Park
★5.0(16 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1.5-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers will enjoy the playground equipment in a safe, enclosed setting, while elementary-aged kids can take advantage of the sports fields for pickup games and open spaces for running and active play.🧡 Saved by 43 families
About
Simpson Mine Park is a beloved Lafayette neighborhood gem that punches above its weight with excellent playground equipment, sports fields, and plenty of open green space perfect for family picnics and active play. With a perfect 5-star rating from local families, this well-maintained park offers the ideal setting for everything from casual playground visits to birthday parties under the picnic shelters.
Highlights
- ✓Well-maintained playground equipment suitable for multiple age groups
- ✓Spacious sports fields perfect for soccer, baseball, and active games
- ✓Picnic shelters ideal for birthday parties and family gatherings
- ✓Wide open green spaces for running, flying kites, and outdoor play
- ✓Clean, safe neighborhood park atmosphere with a perfect 5-star rating
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (around 8:00-9:00 AM) to claim one of the picnic shelters for birthday parties or family gatherings,they're popular and fill up quickly
- 2.Bring sports equipment like soccer balls, frisbees, or baseball gear to take full advantage of the open fields and grassy areas
- 3.Pack snacks and water since there are no food vendors on-site, but the picnic shelters make it easy to bring a full family lunch
- 4.The park closes at 8:00 PM, making it perfect for evening visits during summer when temperatures cool down and the light is beautiful
- 5.Check out the playground equipment before your visit,locals rave about how well-maintained and engaging it is for multiple age groups
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) or late afternoons (4:00-6:00 PM) offer the best experience with smaller crowds and comfortable temperatures. Summer evenings before the 8:00 PM closing time are magical for family picnics with cooler weather and golden hour lighting.
What to Know
The park is free to visit with open hours from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Street parking is available on E Simpson Street, and the picnic shelters provide shaded areas for families to gather throughout the day.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for extended play sessions. Summer evenings are particularly popular for family gatherings. During winter, the park remains accessible but dress warmly for playground visits and bring sleds if snow is present on the grassy hills.
Nearby Eats
Head to Proto's Pizza (about 2 miles away) for family-friendly Italian fare, or try Chick-fil-A on South Boulder Road for a quick, kid-approved meal with a playground after your park visit.
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