Inclusive playgrounds

Inclusive playgrounds

What is an inclusive playground?

Inclusive playgrounds are engaging, fun spaces where everyone can play regardless of their abilities. These playgrounds challenge the most active children while also providing enclosed areas for quiet and creative play and incorporate features like wheelchair-accessible ramps, sensory elements, and braille signage. Inclusive playgrounds align with The City’s commitment to accessibility and social inclusion by incorporating universal design principles that support participation by children and caregivers of all abilities. This includes considerations for individuals with sensory, cognitive, and visual impairments, as well as adults with mobility limitations. 

There are currently 24 inclusive playgrounds in Calgary.

Featured Inclusive Playgrounds

Playground location criteria

The City aims to have one inclusive play space or recreational opportunity within a 5 km radius of every Calgarian as part of the Council-approved Inclusive Play Spaces Implementation Plan

Playground locations were chosen based on meeting the following requirements:

  • existing playground onsite enabling easier development; 
  • site large enough to accommodate the larger format of an inclusive playground; 
  • access to either a parking lot, accessible street parking or close to major transit routes; 
  • preferably near a public washroom and; the route/pathway to the site is accessible.

See what feedback the public provided in our What We Heard Report at the Inclusive Playgrounds Engage portal.

Parks Foundation Calgary logo

Many of these playgrounds were fast-tracked due to Alberta Government Municipal Stimulus Program funds, or were built in partnership with Parks Foundation Calgary, including: Elliston Playground, Ramsay Playground, Ted Harrison Playground, and Vivo Playground.

For more information about these projects, please visit Parks Foundation Calgary.