Photo: Pauline Ie
Photo: Jenny Sun
Photo: kent legrow
Thompson Park
★4.6(649 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1.5-3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the age-appropriate playground equipment and open grass areas for early exploration, while elementary-aged kids love the larger play structures, sports fields, and longer walking paths perfect for bikes and scooters.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
Thompson Park is a beloved Upper Arlington gem that draws families year-round with its well-maintained playgrounds, scenic walking paths, and ample green space for active play. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from nearly 650 reviews, this community park offers the perfect blend of structured play areas and open fields where kids can run, explore, and burn off energy while parents enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Highlights
- ✓Multiple playground areas with equipment suited for different age groups
- ✓Well-maintained paved walking paths perfect for strollers, bikes, and scooters
- ✓Open sports fields and grassy areas ideal for picnics and active play
- ✓Shaded seating areas where parents can relax while supervising
- ✓Clean, accessible restroom facilities
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning on weekends (7-9 AM) to enjoy the park before it gets busy and claim your favorite playground spot
- 2.Bring a wagon or stroller-friendly setup,the paved walking paths are perfect for leisurely strolls with multiple kids
- 3.Pack a picnic blanket and snacks to make an afternoon of it; the shaded areas provide perfect spots for breaks between play sessions
- 4.The park's extended hours (5 AM-11 PM) make it ideal for after-dinner family walks during summer when it stays light longer
- 5.Bring balls, frisbees, or outdoor games,the open fields are excellent for family activities beyond the playground
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) or early evenings (5-7 PM) offer the best experience with smaller crowds. Spring and fall provide ideal weather for extended play, while summer mornings help you beat the heat. Avoid Saturday and Sunday midday (11 AM-3 PM) when the park is most crowded.
What to Know
Thompson Park is free to visit with convenient parking available on-site. The park offers accessible pathways and restroom facilities, making it family-friendly for all abilities. Bring your own snacks and water as there are no concessions on-site.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with extended hours (5 AM-11 PM daily), though playground equipment may be snow-covered in winter. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for extended play. Summer can get hot during midday, so plan for early morning or evening visits. The park is beautifully maintained in all seasons, with fall foliage creating a particularly scenic backdrop.
Nearby Eats
Reed Road runs nearby with several family-friendly options including Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern (casual American fare with a kids menu) and Chipotle for quick, customizable meals. For a treat after park play, Graeter's Ice Cream on Lane Avenue is just a short drive away and always a hit with kids.
More Activities Near Upper Arlington
Park
Tremont Center
Free
Tremont Center is a beloved Upper Arlington community park that offers something for every member of the family. With well-maintained playgrounds, spacious fields for running and sports, and plenty of shaded areas for picnics, it's an ideal spot for both planned outings and spontaneous play dates. The variety of amenities makes it easy to spend a whole afternoon here without anyone getting bored.
Park
Fancyburg Park
★4.8Free❤️15
Fancyburg Park is a beloved Upper Arlington gem that hits the sweet spot for families with young children. This well-maintained neighborhood park features quality playground equipment sized perfectly for little ones, plus generous open green spaces where kids can run freely, play ball games, or enjoy a family picnic without feeling crowded.
Park
Northam Park
★4.6Free❤️65
Northam Park is a well-loved Upper Arlington gem that delivers exactly what families need: modern, safe playground equipment, open grassy spaces perfect for running off energy, and tennis courts for active older kids. With its excellent maintenance and neighborhood-friendly atmosphere, it's the kind of reliable park where kids can climb, swing, and play while parents enjoy the peaceful, well-kept surroundings.
Park
Reed Road Park
★4.5Free❤️121
Reed Road Park is a family favorite in Upper Arlington, offering something for everyone with its diverse mix of playgrounds, walking trails, sports fields, and natural wooded areas. The expansive grounds give kids plenty of room to run, explore nature, and burn off energy while parents can enjoy the well-maintained facilities and scenic walking paths.