While playgrounds are fun, educational spaces for kids, they can also be places where people of all ages can meet, be active and enjoy themselves. Cities, schools and community groups are now building multigenerational playgrounds that everyone can use. These playgrounds help people stay healthy, connect with each other and build stronger communities.
Creating a multigenerational playground requires some special approaches and considerations to make it as impactful as possible. Learn more about designing and building teen and adult playgrounds in this quick informational guide.
Playgrounds have changed over time, and they’re now more than just places for kids to play. They’ve become centers for health and community activity, attracting people of all ages.
Cities, schools and builders are starting to realize the importance of having playgrounds for everyone. Multigenerational playgrounds allow teens and adults to join kids in having fun and being active. These environments improve health, help people connect and strengthen communities.
Designing a teen and adult playground starts with thinking about their needs. With these aspects in mind, builders can create engaging play areas that appeal to different age groups.
The right playground equipment for teens balances challenge, creativity and social opportunity. Young people value safe spaces where they can be active, have fun and hang out with friends. Playground elements that support fitness and friendly competition are a good starting point. Here are some examples to consider:
Social spaces are equally important for teens. Teen playgrounds with comfortable, relaxed gathering areas encourage interactions, conversations and friendships. Creative mental stimulation is also essential. Outdoor musical instruments and painting and drawing platforms can also appeal to artistic teens.
This age group also thrives on novelty and problem-solving, so elements that change, move or introduce new challenges over time will keep them coming back. Incorporating tech-friendly elements into playgrounds for teens can help capture their interest. Examples include interactive games, augmented and virtual reality technologies and lighting features.
Adults seek playground spaces that combine fitness, leisure and social connection. When designing an adult playground, consider incorporating body weight equipment like pull-up bars, balance beams and dip stations, as well as cardio-focused stations and resistance training features. Adult playground equipment makes it easy for people of varying fitness levels to find activities that match their goals and routines.
Beyond fitness, adults often visit playgrounds with children or family friends. Planners can create flexible spaces that support physical exercise and rest by including seating areas, walking paths and nature-filled open zones. These features invite visitors to move at their own pace and provide space for everything from yoga classes to stroller-friendly walks. Picnic tables and shaded seating also turn playgrounds into gathering places for parents, grandparents and friends to relax and connect.
Adult playgrounds provide significant stress relief and mental health benefits. Research shows that outdoor exercise reduces stress and improves mood, making thoughtfully designed recreational spaces important community assets. Whether someone is walking off stress after work or fitting in a strength session while their child plays nearby, these playgrounds give adults a way to stay active and engaged.
Designing playgrounds in Southeast states like Georgia, Florida and South Carolina requires careful attention to regional weather and environmental conditions. These states experience high humidity, intense sunshine and occasional severe weather events, so it’s crucial to use materials specifically suited for durability and safety in these climates.
Selecting weather-resistant materials helps equipment withstand humidity and moisture. High-quality metals, durable plastics and coated surfaces maintain structural integrity and safety even under frequent exposure to intense sunlight, heat and moisture.
Shade structures are another important consideration. Investing in customized shade solutions that protect visitors from harmful UV rays increases comfort and extends equipment life and usability throughout the year.
A great multigenerational playground design incorporates inclusive, community-driven spaces that engage children, teens and adults year after year.
Effective multigenerational playgrounds begin with zone planning. Clearly defined areas for different age groups help all visitors feel comfortable and welcome. Younger children, teens and adults will have spaces customized to their recreational needs and preferences, creating a cohesive environment for family visits and community gatherings.
For example, a climbing section for teens can be next to a low-impact, sensory-friendly area for young kids, both within view of adult fitness stations and shaded seating. Designers can connect these zones by walking paths. Integrating universal features like swings, open green spaces or interactive musical instruments creates natural points of connection between age groups.
Community inclusion during the design process also ensures the playground accurately reflects local preferences and expectations. Gather input from local residents, HOA boards and other stakeholders.
Accessibility goes beyond meeting ADA codes — it’s about creating an area where every person feels welcome. That includes choosing surfaces that support mobility devices, using clear and easy-to-follow signage and making space for individuals who may benefit from quiet zones.
Thoughtful design considerations, such as wide, obstacle-free pathways, wheelchair-friendly equipment, sensory play options, and seating designed for all mobility levels, help builders create universally welcoming spaces.
Across the country, communities are rethinking what play means and who it’s for. While younger children remain a central focus in playground planning, there’s growing recognition that teens and adults also need engaging, safe and enriching outdoor spaces.
Few partners bring the local expertise and comprehensive service that Playworx delivers when designing a teen or adult playground in the Southeast. We know the specific challenges and the incredible opportunities of creating playgrounds that serve every generation.
Our team handles every step, from planning, design, and equipment selection to surfacing, installation, and maintenance. We provide hands-on, collaborative support to municipalities, schools, property developers and community organizations. With more than 20 years of experience across Georgia, Florida and South Carolina, we’re passionate about delivering fun that lasts, safety you can trust and a personalized playground experience.
Contact us today to discover how we can help you create a playground for teens and adults!
