Equipment by Earthscape.
Surface: rubber.
At long last, we have built a playground that honours Toronto’s most iconic creature.
Not only do I love that this playground exists, but I also love that Earthscape was the company entrusted to build it, since they do animals better than any other playground manufacturer. We’ve visited their owl in Hamilton, their beaver in Etobicoke, and their grasshopper in Guelph. Earthscape’s animals capture young climbers’ imaginations while adding character to the neighbourhood. In short, they’re not just playgrounds, but sculptures you can climb on.
The big raccoon face that gives the park its name (and yes, “Raccoon Park” is the official name, which just makes me so happy) is hollow on the north side, which makes it a cozy little nook to escape from the sun, and its outside has climbing holds that encourage kids to perch up on top. Plus you can get your kids to poke their heads through the raccoon’s eyes or nose for a great photo-op.
As adorable as it is, the raccoon face isn’t even the best piece of equipment here. That title goes to the two towers that loom over this small park, and they are fantastic for a number of reasons.
First, they just look flat-out cool. Second, they provide a variety of climbing options for kids of a range of abilities; there are ladders, ropes, climbing holds, monkey bars, and a log pile for kids to explore. Thirdly, these towers are great because they’re a bit awkward for adults to get inside, which means that most grown-ups will stay to the side and allow their kids to explore on their own.
Having said all that, there isn’t much at this playground for small kids. The mini-splash pad is nice, but if they’re looking to climb, the smaller equipment across the street at Dunfield Park might be better suited for toddlers. There are also some standard playground items – swings, spinners, a sandbox – that this playground doesn’t have.
But it’s close to the subway and the many amenities of Yonge & Eglinton, not to mention several other top-notch playgrounds within a 5-minute drive.
And besides, who needs swings when you’ve got a giant raccoon head?
PS – if you like this one, you should know that it’s just an appetizer. An even bigger raccoon is coming to the Portlands soon!