Central Hillside Park

Central Hillside is a playground we didn't even realize existed until we had lived in Duluth for over a year because it is tucked into a hill right downtown behind the old Central High School.  It is next to a community center that is home to the One Roof Housing offices, occupied during the workweek.  There are several basketball courts downhill from the playground and a bit of litter surrounding the area.

In the front of the building is an older area that is designed for babies and toddlers.  You cannot see this area from the older playground.  It has a sand/dirt surface along with:

• 2 very low baby swings
• Digger
• 2 bouncy riders

The opposite side of the building showcases a really neat playground unlike others we have encountered in Duluth.   It has a wood chip surface along with:

• Huge jungle gym structure filled with varying sizes of ropes, netting, platforms, and bridges. 
• Curved swinging platform
• Spinning hoop that I'm guessing is for walking on but could also be used like a merry go round.

The area is hard to see from the road, making me wonder about those who may frequent it in the evening hours, but on a Sunday morning it was empty and a lot of fun.

Duluth Parks page

Chester Park

Chester Park is located near the University of Minnesota-Duluth, at a small ski hill and former ski jumping hill.  It is a sand park with trails and a creek very nearby.  There is a ski chalet down the road and a stage where they host concerts on Tuesday evenings in the summer.

My boys love this playground but it isn't perfect.  The parking lot and road are very close to the playground itself and my toddler is constantly trying to go down by the cars.  The creek is also within toddler escape distance so I have to watch closely whenever he is on that side of the playground.  The big boys like to run onto the stage and dance for a few minutes as part of their play.

There are several picnic tables and three benches.  There are no bathrooms near the playground.  EDIT: I have been told that there are bathrooms inside the chalet.

Some features:

• 2 swings
• 2 baby swings
• Brand new swirly slide (the old one was metal and of questionable integrity.)
• Merry-go-round
• 2 double slides (great for racing)
• Rock wall with holds
• Track glider
• Steps and a curved ladder
• Spinning wheels monkey bars
• Pull-up bar

Duluth Parks page