By Jennifer Arndt • BocaJump community writer
As a new Mom living on the far west side of Elgin, I’m always on the look-out for fun and free things to do around town with my son. This summer I was thrilled to discover a little hidden gem … Meijer Park. Tucked away behind the West Point Gardens subdivision off Nesler Road, Meijer Park is a great spot for kids of all ages. The best part about Meijer Park is that it’s nearly brand new and most of the time you’ll have it all to yourself! Over the Summer I spent many lazy days hanging out at the park with my little guy and very rarely did we see more than 2 or 3 other families at the park.
Now one may think that because it’s not very populated, it’s not very nice, but that’s not the case with Meijer Park. The play equipment is fantastic and perfect for kids both young and old. There are three large play structures and two sets of swings including bucket style swings for babies and toddlers. One play structure is smaller in size which is perfect for younger toddlers while the second structure is a little larger and then the third is even bigger yet! Personally, I just love that there are multiple play structures so my tiny little guy isn’t pushed off the slide by an older, more rambunctious slider!
Aside from the play structures, swings and slides there are also 6 half-court basketball courts, 2 tennis courts and 4 acres of wide open space perfect for flying a kite or just chasing after your kids to tire them out. On one of my trips to the park I ran into one of my girlfriends who also lives nearby, she and her son were flying a huge kite and I must say I was a little envious, so much so that I searched through my basement for days to find my old kite to fly with my son! Since Meijer Park is so new there are no huge trees to contend with and no power lines to worry about either.
It’s easy to find Meijer Park, if you know what you’re looking for! Just head west on Route 20 to Nesler Road and turn left, which will be south. The first subdivision on your right will be West Point Gardens. Just turn right in to either of their entry roads and drive past the first row of townhomes. The park is directly behind the townhomes. You might be wondering if Meijer Park is a private community park. No need to worry, it’s not a private park! Meijer Park is actually owned by the City of Elgin so it welcomes all visitors.
Next time you’re sitting at home wondering what to do with your little one, head on over to Meijer Park. You’ll easily enjoy a couple hours of running, jumping, climbing, sliding and swinging! Now that fall is here our trips to the park are fleeting and now that I’ve announced to the world how great Meijer Park is, I might not have it all to myself for much longer!
Do you have a favorite Elgin park? Tell me about it in the comment section below.
