


Ballantyne's Backyard
About
Ballantyne's Backyard is a spacious neighborhood park that delivers on its name, offering families a welcoming outdoor retreat in the heart of Ballantyne. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, shaded walking trails, and plenty of open green space for running around, it's the perfect spot for everything from quick playground visits to full afternoon picnics.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple playground structures with modern equipment and safety surfacing
- ✓Paved walking trails perfect for strollers, bikes, and scooters
- ✓Large open fields ideal for soccer, frisbee, and running games
- ✓Covered picnic shelters with tables for family lunches
- ✓Well-maintained grounds with plenty of shade trees
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning or late afternoon during summer months to enjoy the park before temperatures peak and crowds arrive
- 2.Bring bikes, scooters, or balls to take advantage of the extensive paved trails and open field spaces
- 3.The picnic shelters are first-come, first-served, so arrive early on weekends if you're planning a birthday party or group gathering
- 4.Pack bug spray for evening visits, especially near the wooded trail areas
- 5.There's ample parking in the main lot, but overflow parking is available along the street during busy weekend afternoons
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings or early evenings offer the most space and shade, especially during spring and fall when temperatures are mild. Weekend mornings (8-10 AM) are ideal for families wanting to beat the crowds before the park fills up with birthday parties and sports activities.
What to Know
This is a free public park with plenty of free parking available. There are no food concessions on-site, so pack snacks and water, though the Ballantyne area has numerous dining options within a short drive.
Seasonal Notes
The park is open year-round and beautiful in spring when trees bloom. Fall offers perfect weather and gorgeous foliage. Summer can be hot, so plan morning or evening visits. The park remains accessible in winter, though playground equipment may be cold to the touch.
Nearby Eats
Head to Blaze Pizza or Chick-fil-A in nearby Ballantyne Village (5-minute drive) for quick, kid-friendly meals. For sit-down dining, visit The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar which offers creative menu options that appeal to both kids and adults.
More Activities Near Ballantyne
Ballantyne Village
Ballantyne Village is a beautifully landscaped outdoor gathering space that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere. Throughout the year, families can enjoy free concerts, seasonal festivals, and special events in the central commons area, all while exploring the pedestrian-friendly walkways lined with shops and restaurants.
Creamistry Ballantyne
Creamistry Ballantyne turns ice cream into an interactive science show that kids absolutely love. Using liquid nitrogen that creates dramatic fog clouds, children watch in amazement as their custom ice cream is flash-frozen right before their eyes in about 90 seconds. The made-to-order approach means everyone gets exactly what they want, from adventurous flavors to classic favorites with endless topping combinations.
Park at Blakeney
Park at Blakeney offers a fantastic free splash pad that's become a summer favorite for Ballantyne families. The interactive water features provide hours of refreshing fun, and the convenient location in the heart of Blakeney's shopping district means you can easily combine water play with lunch or errands,making it a practical and enjoyable outing.
The Arboretum Shopping Center
The Arboretum Shopping Center in Ballantyne is a beautifully landscaped outdoor shopping destination that's surprisingly family-friendly. With dedicated play areas for kids, wide pedestrian-friendly walkways perfect for strollers, and a safe, clean environment, it offers more than just shopping,it's a destination where families can enjoy leisurely afternoons with plenty of space for little ones to explore between stops at family restaurants and shops.