Foley Kids Park

Foley Kids Park (known to locals as Sara Thompson Kids Park) is a vibrant and inclusive space for active recreation located in the heart of Foley, Alabama, USA. Part of Max Griffin Park, this playground is considered one of the most modern in the region following a major renovation completed in 2023.

This place is unique because its design was determined by children themselves, who participated in an online vote for the best project. The park offers a safe and welcoming environment for children of all ages and physical abilities, combining play elements for motor skill development and areas for social interaction.

The park is named after Sarah Thompson, a legendary local teacher who, in the early 2000s, brought together hundreds of volunteers to create the first community playground in the area. Today, the renovated park continues this community tradition, remaining a favorite spot for family outings and children's parties.

If you're planning a day outdoors with the whole family, it's a good idea to save the playground's contact information in advance. Official details will help you quickly find your way to the play areas or contact the city's Parks and Recreation Department to clarify event details.

Below is the essential information for contacting and locating the site:

At Foley Kids Park, a real adventure awaits young visitors: it features modern play castles, multi-level slides, and a variety of swings. One of the main highlights of the park is the interactive splash pads, which are a true lifesaver and a source of delight during hot Alabama summer days.

The park is divided into zones suitable for children of different ages, allowing both toddlers and older kids to play at a comfortable pace. Adults will appreciate the shady paths and convenient benches that provide a good vantage point to watch the children. The park grounds are also perfect for hosting children's birthday parties and outdoor family picnics.

If the activities at the playground aren't enough, the Max Griffin Park city pool and a skate park are just a few steps away, making it possible to organize a full day of sports and fun for the whole family. Clean walking paths and well-kept lawns make this an ideal spot for peaceful strolls between periods of active play.

Reaching Foley Kids Park is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at 209 W Verbena Ave (within the larger Max Griffin Park). Most visitors prefer to use a personal or rental car, and convenient parking is provided on-site.

If you are in the city center, a drive by car or taxi will take only about 10–15 minutes. Uber and Lyft services are also active in the city and are the most convenient option for those who prefer not to drive.

For those who enjoy walking, the park is within walking distance of some residential neighborhoods and municipal buildings. The route takes you through well-maintained streets, making the walk a pleasant addition to your outing.

The history of this site began in 2001 thanks to the inspiring initiative of Sarah Thompson, a local elementary school teacher. Together with her students and more than 500 volunteers, she organized the construction of the city's first modern playground, creating a true symbol of community unity.

In May 2023, the park experienced a rebirth. After a massive renovation, it was officially named after its founder — Sara Thompson Kids Park. Notably, the design of the new playground was chosen by children themselves: more than 2,500 young residents participated in an online vote for the look of the structures.

City authorities treated the past with respect: during the dismantling of the old structures, many elements were carefully preserved. Art students from Foley High School helped restore original animal figures, which now decorate not only the renovated park but also the Graham Creek Nature Preserve, connecting different generations of residents through shared memories.

To allow children to fully enjoy all the slides, swings, and themed zones, it is recommended to plan a visit lasting from 1.5 to 3 hours. This is usually enough time to try out most of the attractions and rest in the park's shaded areas.

For families with very young children, an hour of active play might be sufficient. However, if you plan to combine the playground visit with a picnic or a trip to the neighboring Max Griffin Park pool, you can easily spend half a day in this part of town, enjoying the carefree atmosphere and comfortable infrastructure.

Foley Kids Park is ready to welcome guests daily. The convenient operating hours allow you to plan a visit both early in the morning and in the early evening when the midday heat subsides.

According to official data, the park is open according to the following schedule:

• Monday — Sunday: 07:00 – 20:00

A stroll around the kids' park area can be a great extension of your day in Foley. Nearby, you will find cozy dining spots and entertainment centers that allow adults to relax while the kids are still full of energy after playing.

Exploring the central part of the city will reveal interesting locations — from historical plazas to modern amusement parks located just a few minutes' drive away. Here is a list of nearby sites worth visiting: