Park of the Day: Zack Hinish Playground in Hollidaysburg, PA

Located near the entrance to C.W.Longer Elementary school in Hollidaysburg, this playground offers a wonderful variety of play structures and a special story to go with it. This playground was built by the Zack Hinish Foundation to honor the memory of a Longer student who endured multiple disabilities and passed away at 5 years old.

As the playground is wheelchair and walker accessible it offers children of all abilities a special opportunity to play with each other. Playground favorites for kids here include the roller slide, tree-sculpture that's big enough to climb into, "rock-climbing" ladders that lead up to slides, and a large, swaying, glider boat. The park also has traditional swings (no bucket swings), monkey bars, climbing structurs, and slides as well. The playground surface is padded in case of falls. One of Eve's favorite things is walking along the s-shaped balance beam. It's only about 8 inches off the ground and is a great way for little ones to practice balance.

For a picnic, enjoy the comfortable table with easy wheel-chair access. It's a great place for a bagged lunch. There are also outhouses beyond the park near the ball field. It's short on shade but long on fun. There's no water fountain, so bring drinks and some sunscreen if it's going to be hot!

Keep in mind, it's a school playground. If you go during the school year, try to plan your visit so it won't interfere with recess. You and your children are sure to have fun!